Movement of Kangaroos After a Fire in Mallee Woodland.

Abstract

Experimental burning of mallee (Eucalyptus spp.) and shrub vegetation has been done in New South Wales to stimulate plant growth for grazing sheep and cattle. In March 1984 fires were started by an aerial ignition technique in a 'paddock' of 116 km2 and a study was made, by aerial surveys, of movements of kangaroos (Macropus rufus and M. fuliginosus) into the area. Such movements would detract from the benefit to grazing stock. It was found that on this occasion the burned area did not attract kangaroos, apparently because good winter rains gave adequate food for them elsewhere. It is suggested that burning for grazing is likely to be most beneficial where winter rains are most predictable, i.e. inside the mallee zone.