Wildlife Research

Latest

These articles are the latest published in the journal. Wildlife Research has moved to a continuous publication model. More information is available on our Continuous Publication page.

Published online 16 April 2024

WR23079More trees and fewer roads: the importance of local and landscape features for insectivorous bats in open urban green spaces

M. Callas , L. F. Lumsden , A. R. Rendall and K. Yokochi

 

Insectivorous bats play important roles in keeping insect populations in balance. At least 11 species of insectivorous bats were recorded in open green spaces (e.g. parks, ovals) of Melbourne, with their diversity and activity increasing with greater tree density. Given the potential value of these often-overlooked habitats, tree densities should be increased around open green spaces to support communities of insectivorous bats in cities. Photograph by Lindy Lumsden.

WR23079 Abstract  |  WR23079 Full Text  | WR23079PDF (1.8 MB)  | WR23079Supplementary Material (822 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 16 April 2024

WR23128Trialling a new method to attract feral cats (Felis catus) in situ – the Mata Hari Judas queen

Abby L. Dennien, Megan C. Edwards , Julia M. Hoy, Vere Nicolson, Megan J. Brady and Peter J. Murray

 

Feral cats are a significant threat to Australia’s wildlife, and innovative management techniques are needed to capture remnant individuals that persist following traditional management actions. This study aimed to assess whether a female cat in prolonged oestrus could attract and help capture feral cats in situ. Proof of concept was achieved, and with further refinement, this technique could be significant for feral cat management. Photograph by Abby Dennien.

WR23128 Abstract  |  WR23128 Full Text  | WR23128PDF (1.6 MB)  | WR23128Supplementary Material (836 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 16 April 2024

WR23100Evaluating translocation strategies for box turtles in urbanising landscapes

Elizabeth D. Hays , Ethan J. Royal, Ethan C. Hollender and John D. Willson

 

Wildlife translocation is often necessary to mitigate negative effects of habitat loss or degradation as a result of urbanisation. This study investigated post-translocation movements of immediately released Terrapene carolina triunguis (three-toed box turtle) and box turtles held long-term (>1 year) at an off-site location prior to translocation. Turtles held long-term remained within the translocation site more reliably and had reduced homing attempts compared with immediate-release turtles. We make recommendations for mitigating homing attempts of translocated turtles. Photograph by Elizabeth D. Hays.

WR23100 Abstract  | PDF (6.5 MB) - $35.00 

Published online 16 April 2024

WR23115Enhancing strategic deployment of baiting transects for invasive species control – a case study for feral pig baiting in north-eastern Australia

Cameron Wilson , Matthew Gentle and Darren Marshall

 

Baiting is used in conservation and invasive species management. Increased bait density increases probability of bait encounter, but it can also escalate costs and risks wastage. To refine bait placement, we compared simulated aerial and ground transects with feral pig ranges in Queensland. Aerial transects at 4 km intervals were the most efficient, and no alternate transect placement significantly improved effectiveness at intersecting pig ranges. Additional data on bait encounter and interactions is critical to assess effectiveness of bait uptake. Photograph by Darryl Duff, Charleville.

WR23115 Abstract  |  WR23115 Full Text  | WR23115PDF (3.8 MB)  | WR23115Supplementary Material (1009 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 15 April 2024

WR23063An estimate of the marginal annual economic contribution of wild-pig hunting in Texas

Sophie C. McKee , Sophie C. McKee , Keith M. Carlisle, Keith M. Carlisle, John Tomecek, John Tomecek, Stephanie A. Shwiff, Stephanie A. Shwiff, Rachael Connally, Rachael Connally, Maureen Frank, Maureen Frank, Mike Bodenchuk, Mike Bodenchuk, Nicole Didero and Nicole Didero

 

Wild-pig hunting is a culturally significant recreational and commercial activity in Texas, but the economic impacts have not been formally quantified. A sample survey of resident and non-resident 2018–2019 Texas hunting-license holders indicated that the estimated upper range of annual marginal economic benefit is between US$68.5 and US$188.0 million. Although hunting is an important consideration in the discussion of wild-pig management, this estimate is dwarfed by the estimated total damage costs associated with wild pigs in Texas. Photograph by Nathan P. Snow.

WR23063 Abstract  |  WR23063 Full Text  |  WR23063 Full Text  | WR23063PDF (408 KB)  | WR23063Supplementary Material (1.1 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 08 April 2024

WR23118Life-history of masked water snakes (Homalopsis buccata) in Java: implications for the sustainability of harvesting

Evy Arida, Noor Laina Maireda, Alamsyah Elang Nusa Herlambang,   Mumpuni, Awal Riyanto, Amir Hamidy , Richard Shine and Daniel J. D. Natusch

 

Although it is impossible to prove sustainability of any wildlife harvest, except in hindsight, studies of commercially exploited taxa can provide a basis for prediction. Our data on commercially harvested masked water snakes in Java, Indonesia, suggest that these snakes possess ecological and life-history attributes likely to make them resilient to harvesting, consistent with the species’ continuing abundance, despite a long history of intense exploitation. Photograph by Alamsyah Herlambang.

WR23118 Abstract  |  WR23118 Full Text  | WR23118PDF (839 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 04 April 2024

WR23083Activity of dingoes (Canis familiaris) and their use of anthropogenic resources in the Strzelecki Desert, South Australia

Paul D. Meek , Guy A. Ballard , James Abell, Heath Milne, Deane Smith and Peter J. S. Fleming

 

Managing over-abundant dingoes in mine sites requires an understanding of their use of the landscape. Using GPS radio-tracking, we collared dingoes to assess their home-range sizes, and the relationships of home-range sizes to anthropogenic resources, with a focus on a waste-management facility. Three categories of dingo were identified, showing differing relationships to human-provided resources, all of which help develop dingo-population management strategies. Photograph by Paul Meek.

WR23083 Abstract  |  WR23083 Full Text  | WR23083PDF (3.5 MB)  | WR23083Supplementary Material (1.1 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 18 March 2024

WR23010Ensemble forecasting of Persian leopard (Panthera pardus saxicolor) distribution and habitat suitability in south-western Iran

Fatemeh Jamali, Seyed Mehdi Amininasab , Hamid Taleshi and Hossein Madadi

 

The Persian leopard is an endangered species but remains widely distributed across large areas of Iran. An ensemble of eight species distribution models was developed for the species in Iran. A model including ecological predictors of occurrence predicted 2.03% (329 ha) more suitable habitat than the abiotic model. Habitat suitability for Persian leopards was higher in steeper areas, close to water resources, and near the distribution of caracals, livestock, and wild goats.. Photograph by Sadegh Poursalem.

WR23010 Abstract  | PDF (7.8 MB) - $35.00   | WR23010Supplementary Material (857 KB)

Published online 15 March 2024

WR23102Habitat loss and degradation reduce the abundance of the glossy grass skink, Pseudemoia rawlinsoni

Jules E. Farquhar , Lucy Wotherspoon, Hilary Porter and David G. Chapple

 

Habitat loss and degradation are a major threat to the persistence of wildlife, especially for animals with specific habitat requirements. We performed population surveys on wild glossy grass skinks in southern Victoria (Australia), which revealed that this rare wetland lizard is sensitive to vegetation being disturbed by mowing or grazing. Our study highlighted the importance of protecting habitat-specialised wetland fauna in Australia and globally. Photographs by Jules Farquhar.

WR23102 Abstract  |  WR23102 Full Text  | WR23102PDF (2.5 MB)  | WR23102Supplementary Material (868 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 16 February 2024

WR23062Applications of chemical bird repellents for crop and resource protection: a review and synthesis

Shelagh T. DeLiberto and Scott J. Werner

 

Non-lethal repellents are needed to protect agricultural crops and valued resources from damages caused by some wild birds worldwide. We systematically searched scientific publications, patents and product registrations to develop a current review and synthesis regarding chemical bird repellents for wildlife researchers, ecologists, managers and conservationists. We then developed a comparative ‘index of success’ associated with each tested bird repellent for the future research and development of chemical bird repellents. Photograph by Dr Scott Werner (USDA National Wildlife Research Center).

WR23062 Abstract  |  WR23062 Full Text  | WR23062PDF (1 MB)  | WR23062Supplementary Material (1.4 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 13 February 2024

WR23041Seasonal nest use of sympatric North American flying squirrels

Rosemary Minns, Rebekah Persad , Laurelie Menelon, Sasha L. Newar, Paul P. O’Brien, Samantha M. Stead and Jeff Bowman

 

In North America, climate change and habitat loss are leading to increased interspecific contact between northern and southern flying squirrels. Both species use tree cavities for denning, and we assessed the seasonal selection of these nest trees by the two flying squirrel species at a site where they both occur. We found that both species used larger trees in winter than in summer, and that southern flying squirrels used larger trees than did northern flying squirrels. Photo by Jacob Bowman.

WR23041 Abstract  | PDF (1.4 MB) - $35.00 

Published online 09 February 2024

WR23054Ten years of camera trapping for a cryptic and threatened arboreal mammal – a review of applications and limitations

Dan Harley and Arabella Eyre

 

Ten years of arboreal camera trapping for the cryptic and critically endangered Leadbeater’s possum has enabled surveys with higher reliability and at a greater spatial scale than previously possible, clarifying range limits and greatly increasing our knowledge of occupancy patterns in forests impacted by logging and bushfire. An important caveat is that detection/non-detection data from camera trapping may be insensitive at detecting population declines for communally denning species for whom abundance fluctuates more than occupancy. Photograph by Dan Harley.

WR23054 Abstract  | PDF (1.7 MB) - $35.00 

Published online 05 February 2024

WR23124Diet of fallow deer suggests potential for invasion of novel habitats in Tasmania

Thomas R. Guy , Jamie B. Kirkpatrick, Calum X. Cunningham, Tina E. Berry , Kathryn L. Dawkins , Michael M. Driessen and Chris N. Johnson

 

Fallow deer in Tasmania exhibit remarkable dietary adaptability, a critical factor in their expanding range. This study compared their diets in established grassy woodlands and newer highland habitats, revealing a broad dietary niche. These findings underscore the urgency of robust management strategies to curb further range expansion and mitigate potential impacts on areas with high conservation values. Photograph by Thomas Guy.

WR23124 Abstract  |  WR23124 Full Text  | WR23124PDF (792 KB)  | WR23124Supplementary Material (714 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 19 January 2024

WR23095Environmental DNA detection of spot-tailed quoll from soil is unlikely to be useful for routine monitoring

Lauren C. White , Jenny L. Nelson, Maria Cardoso and Carlo Pacioni

 

The spot-tailed quoll is difficult to detect owing to its rarity, remote habitat and large home ranges. In this study, environmental DNA (eDNA) soil analysis was evaluated as an alternative to traditional monitoring methods for spot-tailed quoll detection. We designed an eDNA assay that showed high sensitivity at quoll latrine sites but performed poorly in non-latrine habitat due to low concentrations of quoll DNA in soil samples. We thus conclude that eDNA analysis of soil is unlikely to improve current monitoring methods for this species. Photograph by Jemma Cripps (ARI).

WR23095 Abstract  | PDF (1.7 MB) - $35.00   | WR23095Supplementary Material (1.4 MB)

Published online 11 January 2024

WR23058Immobilisation efficacy of conducted electrical weapons on captive white-tailed deer

Patrick J. Grunwald, Mark G. Ruder, David A. Osborn, Lisa I. Muller, Kaitlin O. Goode and Gino J. D’Angelo

 

Conducted electrical weapons, commonly referred to as TASERs®, are used on wildlife without species-specific knowledge about overall efficacy or animal welfare impacts. Our study was designed to estimate physiological effects of short-term exposure to a conducted electrical weapon on white-tailed deer. Our data suggest conducted electrical weapons can be used safely on white-tailed deer for short-term immobilisation in place of other immobilisation techniques and to create a safer atmosphere for humane killing by gunshot. Photo courtesy of Emma Kring and used with permission.

WR23058 Abstract  | PDF (3.1 MB) - $35.00   | WR23058Supplementary Material (636 KB)

More content

Just Accepted

These articles have been peer reviewed and accepted for publication. They are still in production and have not been edited, so may differ from the final published form.

WR23117, Accepted 28 March 2024

Where there’s smoke there’s cats: long unburnt habitat is crucial to mitigating the impacts of cats on the Ngarlgumirdi, greater bilby (Macrotis lagotis)

Harry Moore , . Yawuru Country Managers, . Bardi Jawi Oorany Rangers, . Nyul Nyul Rangers, . Nykina Mangala Rangers, Lesley Gibson, Martin Dziminski, Ian J. Radford , Ben Corey, Karen Bettink, Fiona Carpenter, Ruth McPhail, Tracy Sonneman and Bruce Greatwich

 

WR23117Abstract

WR23123, Accepted 26 March 2024

Quantifying the accuracy of location data and spatial ecology inferences from GPS tags in two rare, co-occurring turtle species differing in habitat use

Austin Hulbert, Sarah Carter, Henry Streby and Jeanine Refsnider

 

WR23123Abstract

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1. Evaluating predator control using two non-invasive population metrics: a camera trap activity index and density estimation from scat genotyping

   Wildlife Research 51 (1)

   Jessica L. Keem , Bronwyn A. Hradsky , Joe Benshemesh, Mark Le Pla , Abigail Watkins, Andrew R. Weeks , Anthony van Rooyen , John Black, Darren Southwell

2. Enhancing strategic deployment of baiting transects for invasive species control – a case study for feral pig baiting in north-eastern Australia

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   Cameron Wilson , Matthew Gentle, Darren Marshall

3. Life-history of masked water snakes (Homalopsis buccata) in Java: implications for the sustainability of harvesting

   Wildlife Research 51 (4)

   Evy Arida, Noor Laina Maireda, Alamsyah Elang Nusa Herlambang,   Mumpuni, Awal Riyanto, Amir Hamidy , Richard Shine, Daniel J. D. Natusch

4. Applications of chemical bird repellents for crop and resource protection: a review and synthesis

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   Shelagh T. DeLiberto, Scott J. Werner

5. High survivorship and rapid population growth of the greater bilby (Macrotis lagotis) reintroduced to a feral predator exclosure

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   Cassandra M. Arkinstall , Sean I. FitzGibbon , Kevin J. Bradley, Katherine E. Moseby , Peter J. Murray

6. Investigating the impact of black rats (Rattus rattus) on the endemic and threatened avifauna of Christmas Island

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   Rosalie Willacy , Samantha Flakus, Eve McDonald-Madden, Sarah Legge

7. A review of viral and parasitic infections in wild deer in Australia with relevance to livestock and human health

   Wildlife Research 50 (9)

   Jose L. Huaman, Karla J. Helbig, Teresa G. Carvalho, Mark Doyle, Jordan Hampton , David M. Forsyth , Anthony R. Pople , Carlo Pacioni

8. Habitat loss and degradation reduce the abundance of the glossy grass skink, Pseudemoia rawlinsoni

   Wildlife Research 51 (3)

   Jules E. Farquhar , Lucy Wotherspoon, Hilary Porter, David G. Chapple

9. Still a good dog! Long-term use and effectiveness of livestock guardian dogs to protect livestock from predators in Australia’s extensive grazing systems

   Wildlife Research 51 (1)

   Linda van Bommel , Chris N. Johnson

10. Developing Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) assays for rapid, presumptive DNA detection of an invasive reptile (Boa constrictor)

    Wildlife Research 51 (1)

    Nathan Deliveyne , Jeremy J. Austin , Phillip Cassey

11. Diet of fallow deer suggests potential for invasion of novel habitats in Tasmania

    Wildlife Research 51 (2)

    Thomas R. Guy , Jamie B. Kirkpatrick, Calum X. Cunningham, Tina E. Berry , Kathryn L. Dawkins , Michael M. Driessen, Chris N. Johnson

12. Hybridisation rates, population structure, and dispersal of sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) and rusa deer (Cervus timorensis) in south-eastern Australia

    Wildlife Research 50 (9)

    Erin Hill , Nicholas Murphy, Scarlett Li-Williams , Christopher Davies , David Forsyth , Sebastien Comte , Lee Ann Rollins , Fiona Hogan , Faye Wedrowicz , Troy Crittle, Elaine Thomas, Luke Woodford, Carlo Pacioni

13. Prevalence of pathogens important to human and companion animal health in an urban unowned cat population

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14. Learning from past designs: improving amphibian fences using an adaptive management approach

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    John Gould , Alex Callen, Gregory Knibb, Rachael Donelly, Kate Schmahl, Cassandra Maynard, Samantha Sanders, Frank Lemckert, Colin McHenry

15. Fighting the flames: site-specific effects determine species richness of Australian frogs after fire

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    Brittany A. Mitchell , Simon B. Z. Gorta , Corey T. Callaghan , Richard T. Kingsford , Jodi J. L. Rowley

16. Activity of dingoes (Canis familiaris) and their use of anthropogenic resources in the Strzelecki Desert, South Australia

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    Paul D. Meek , Guy A. Ballard , James Abell, Heath Milne, Deane Smith, Peter J. S. Fleming

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    John Gould , Chad Beranek, George Madani

18. Diet and impacts of non-native fallow deer (Dama dama) on pastoral properties during severe drought

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    Naomi E. Davis , David M. Forsyth , Andrew J. Bengsen

19. Comparisons of morphometrics and body condition between two breeding populations of Australian humpback whales

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    Grace Russell , Fredrik Christiansen, Andrew Colefax, Kate R. Sprogis , Daniele Cagnazzi

20. Movement and ranging behaviour of long-nosed potoroos (Potorous tridactylus) in south-west Victoria, Australia

    Wildlife Research 51 (1)

    Mark Le Pla , Bronwyn A. Hradsky, Julian Di Stefano, Tamika C. Farley-Lehmer, Emma K. Birnbaum, Jack H. Pascoe

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