One of the concerns that ecologists have is that in many arid areas of Australia the kangaroo population is increasing. The reasons for this increase are not certain, but relate to increases in water availability due to more watering spots for their stock being created and secondly the control of dingos which are a major predator of kangaroos. There is concern that this increase in kangaroos is having an impact on other smaller species.
Consequently, this study was undertaken to determine whether kangaroos affect a rare bird, the thick-billed grasswren. The study was carried on a property in SA where 3 fenced enclosures were created excluding kangaroos. The populations of the wrens as well as other species were then monitored, comparing the fenced off sites to the unfenced areas. The main method for the monitoring the birds was to use camera traps which have been found to be very effective.
The initial results showed a significant increase in the wren population in the fenced areas, but the reasons for the increase are still being analysed. Matt will be going to the site in March and hopefully gathering more data. Matt was very appreciative of OFF because the research grant he received was for the purchase of the cameras he used and they have proved to be extremely effective. A very interesting and rewarding presentation which showed that our research grants are having a positive impact on our scientific knowledge regarding Australian wildlife.
This presentation can be viewed on OFF’s YouTube channel here. Note that sub-titles are available on this video.
PROMO
An interesting presentation by Matt Smith, a UNSW postgraduate student and OFF 2024 grant recipient.
As part of his PhD studies, Matt Smith is investigating if and how kangaroo populations impact vegetation, invertebrates, birds, reptiles and mammals throughout Australia’s arid zone and how this impacts biodiversity conservation outcomes. In particular he is addressing the concern that excessive grazing by kangaroos may adversely affect arid zone biodiversity. However, at present there is little scientific data concerning kangaroos’ impacts on ecosystems in arid Australia. . Anecdotal observations suggest that grazing by over-abundant kangaroo populations may adversely impact the endangered thick-billed grasswren.
The objective of this project is to investigate whether kangaroo grazing does in fact affect thick-billed grasswren populations at Nature Foundation’s Witchelina Reserve, South Australia
This meeting will be held in the Oatley Uniting Church Hall at 7.30pm and on-line by ZOOM. For ZOOM Meeting Id and Password, please email oatleyff@gmail.com