Man's Activities and Bird's Distribution in the Arid Zone

Abstract

Changes in the Australian climate during geological time as well as the activities of man in Australia have led to changes in the abundance and distribution of bird species. Serventy (1977) reviews the effect of climate and Smith (1977) the influence of man on some coastal species, whereas the present paper discusses the changes in the distribution of birds consequent upon man's activities in the Australian arid zone. In general, this has led to greater number of species and reduced number of individuals but some spectacular increases in abundance have also occurred.

The provision of permanent surface water has been the most important modification causing these changes but clearing, changes in the dominant species of herbs and grasses, the introduction of weeds and exotic animals, and the development of windmills, farmyards and country towns also seem to be important to certain species, acting to increase the ranges of some and decrease those of others.