Context. With the ongoing biodiversity crisis and the continued loss of species, it becomes crucial to find practical solutions to monitor threatened animal populations for wildlife conservation and management. However, in practice, monitoring is especially challenging for elusive, rare, and wide-ranging species, where estimating abundance is often expensive and time-consuming. Alternatively, estimating occupancy (i.e. detection/non-detection data) may be less resource-intensive, while still providing useful information for monitoring population trends.

Aims. We aimed to describe a new field method, the random walk grid survey, to conduct a habitat selection study on elusive diurnal forest-dwelling primates. We explored how to improve occupancy estimates when detection probability is low and determined the minimal effort needed for reasonable estimates on the species habitat selection by using site-occupancy models.

Methods. We collected data to assess the northern pigtailed macaques’ (Macaca leonina) occupancy and detection probability using a random walk survey of degraded forest fragments in Sakaerat Biosphere Reserve in Northeast Thailand. We ran simulations to identify what is required for minimum survey efforts to obtain reasonable estimates of occupancy and detection probability on small or relatively large spatial scales, covering a small primate community in Southeast Asia.

Key results. Simulations showed that the probability of detecting macaques increased dramatically with an increased survey effort. However, compared with similar line-transect survey methods, the random walk grid survey was less time-consuming. Additionally, the occupancy and habitat selection estimates were similar to our knowledge of macaque distribution within the study area.

Conclusions. Our findings suggest that the new random walk grid survey method is effective to assess the elusive northern pigtailed macaques’ occupancy, and to provide reliable data on habitat selection where there is low macaque abundance and detection probability in a degraded forest fragment.

Implications. Our survey protocol could be used as a starting point to target high location occupancy to start habituation processes, but also for further intensive studies on primate behaviour and habitat use of primate communities. Finally, combining the random walk grid survey with automated recording devices (e.g. camera traps or passive acoustic surveys) could help improve occupancy and detection probability estimates for long-term monitoring programs and over large spatial scales.

Context. The yellow-throated marten (Martes flavigula), an endangered species in South Korea, is an important apex predator of that country’s temperate forest ecosystem. Human impacts on the landscape continue to threaten marten populations, for which there is insufficient understanding of critical habitats and areas required for population connectivity.

Aims. In this study, our aim was to develop models of habitat suitability and connectivity networks for the yellow-throated marten to inform comprehensive landscape conservation strategies.

Methods. We used an ensemble of five species distribution models (boosted regression trees, BRT; generalised linear model, GLM; multivariate adaptive regression spline, MARS, maximum entropy model, MaxEnt; and random forest, RF) to identify the main environmental factors influencing marten distribution and potential suitable habitats. We employed a network-based landscape lattice approach combined with circuit theory to predict the potential habitat linkages of martens, and we examined their relevance to marten roadkill.

Key results. Five species distribution models performed well with a range of test area under the curve (AUC) values from 0.809 to 0.826 (mean = 0.820) with true skill statistic values over 0.5. Elevation and the amount of vegetation cover were the first and second-most important factors for occurrence probability, and they generally exerted positive influences. Distances from human settlements and roads were also positively related to occurrence probability. We determined appropriate spatial resolutions for conserving functional habitat linkages, which are related to its roadkill distribution, and identified the distribution pattern of key linkage areas.

Conclusions. We effectively identified the potential distribution of marten habitats and linkages between them at regional and functional levels to maintain ecological processes.

Implications. The results and approaches presented here could be useful in understanding and delineating priority habitats and linkage areas for species conservation and landscape management.

Context. Understanding historical distributions of species informs their ecology and response to threats, which can support management of surviving and translocated populations. Like many critical weight-range mammals in Australia, the greater bilby (Macrotis lagotis) has experienced major declines since European colonisation. The past distribution of bilbies in eastern Australia remains uncertain owing to the rapidity of their decline, their cryptic and nocturnal nature, and the paucity of specimen records.

Aims. We aimed to systematically collate, geo-reference and attribute bilby records from eastern Australia to better inform their historical distribution, habitat preferences, patterns of decline and response to threats.

Methods. We searched explorer and early settler journals, the digitised newspaper archive, interviews with long-term residents, Aboriginal language resources and ethnographies, place and property names, unpublished datasets, and documented locations of now-inactive bilby burrows. Records were geo-referenced and attributed with date, record type, source, location precision, bioregion, habitat and local abundance. The former distribution of bilby habitat in Queensland was modelled using Maxent, and the likely former occupancy of bilbies was identified using vegetation mapping.

Key results. More than 250 bilby records were found, only 34 of which appear in the Atlas of Living Australia. Sixty-five per cent of the records were attributed either ‘certain’ or ‘good’ reliability. Bilbies formerly occurred over most of inland New South Wales and the southern half of Queensland in areas receiving <600 mm average annual rainfall, in a wide variety of habitats. By the 1930s, bilbies were largely restricted to their current core range in south-western Queensland. This contraction in range coincided with the northward spread of rabbits and foxes.

Conclusions. Bilbies had a more contiguous distribution and occupied a wider range of habitats than was previously recognised. The species persisted in apparently isolated patches to the south-east, west and north of its present distribution until the 1970s, suggesting recent declines around the peripheries of its current range. By the 1990s, bilbies occupied <3% of their pre-1900 range in eastern Australia.

Implications. This work details changes in bilby distribution and provides key context for interpreting contemporary survey results. It also identifies areas where further surveys are required and may assist in selecting habitat for future translocations.

Context. Invasive feral cats strongly threaten native fauna on islands worldwide. The impact of feral cat populations is assumed to be higher in the presence of introduced rodents and may also vary according to an island’s rodent species assemblage.

Aims. This study assessed feral cat impacts on island biodiversity in French Polynesian islands harbouring differing assemblages of rat species, by investigating their abundance and trophic ecology.

Methods. We focused on the following six human-inhabited islands of three archipelagos in French Polynesia (South Pacific) with differing rat species assemblages: Tahiti and Moorea, Ua Huka and Tahuata, Rurutu and Rimatara. We studied (1) cat abundance, by setting up camera traps during 15 consecutive days to provide an abundance index, the general index (GI) or mean number of virtual captures per camera per occasion, and (2) cat diet, by performing macroscopic analyses of scat samples to determine the frequency of occurrence (FO) of prey categories.

Key results. Our study showed previously unreported patterns of cat-abundance index for the Society archipelago, with a GI of 0.30 ± 0.12 in Tahiti and 0.02 ± 0.02 in Moorea; for the Marquesas, with a GI of 0.75 ± 0.20 in Ua Huka and 0.20 ± 0.06 in Tahuata; and for the Austral, with a GI of 0.06 ± 0.04 in Rurutu and 0.19 ± 0.05 in Rimatara. Feral cats are shown to prey strongly on introduced rodents (FO = 91.3%), arthropods (37.8%), squamates (18.6%) and birds (13.3%) in our study sites. FO of birds are particularly high in Rimatara (31.9%) and Ua Huka (16.8%).

Conclusions. We demonstrated that feral cats represent a serious threat to biodiversity in French Polynesian islands, with 15 species preyed on, including eight endemic birds, four of them being considered threatened by the IUCN Red List. Surprisingly, relative abundances of feral cats were higher both on islands harbouring only one rat species (Ua Huka, with only Rattus exulans) and on islands free of black rats. This finding raises questions regarding the ‘hyperpredation’ hypothesis for multi-invaded island ecosystems.

Implications. This study on islands with differing assemblages of introduced rodents demonstrated the need for invasive predator studies in multi-invaded ecosystems, so as to improve bird conservation and guide management strategies and site prioritisation.

Context. Many mycorrhizal fungi are vital to nutrient acquisition in plant communities, and some taxa are reliant on animal-mediated dispersal. The majority of animals that disperse spores are relatively small and have short-distance movement patterns, but carnivores – and especially apex predators – eat many of these small mycophagists and then move greater distances. No studies to date have assessed the ecosystem services carnivores provide through long-distance spore dispersal.

Aims. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether Australia’s free-ranging dogs (Canis familiaris), including dingoes, act as long-distance spore dispersers by predating smaller mycophagous animals and then secondarily dispersing the fungi consumed by these prey species.

Methods. To answer this question, we collected dingo scats along 40 km of transects in eastern Australia and analysed the scats to determine the presence of fungal spores and prey animals. Using telemetry and passage rate data, we then developed a movement model to predict the spore dispersal potential of dingoes.

Key results. We found 16 species of mammalian prey to be eaten by dingoes, and those dingo scats contained spores of 14 genera of mycorrhizal fungi. These fungi were more likely to appear in the scats of dingoes if primary mycophagist prey mammals had been consumed. Our model predicted dingo median spore dispersal distance to be 2050 m and maximum dispersal potential to be 10 700 m.

Conclusions. Our study indicates that dingoes are providing a previously overlooked ecosystem service through the long-distance dispersal of mycorrhizal fungi. Many of the fungi found in this study form hypogeous (underground) fruiting bodies that are unable to independently spread spores via wind. Because dingoes move over larger areas than their prey, they are especially important to these ecosystem functions.

Implications. Our novel approach to studying an overlooked aspect of predator ecology is applicable in most terrestrial ecosystems. Similar modelling approaches could also be employed to understand the dispersal potential of both primary and secondary spore dispersers globally. Because this study highlights an unrecognised ecosystem service provided by dingoes, we hope that it will stimulate research to develop a more comprehensive understanding of other apex predators’ ecosystem functions.

Context. Invasive mammalian predators are a primary cause of extinctions, especially on islands. Baseline data on the impact of invasive mammalian predators are critical for deciding whether their eradication or control should be attempted, and for monitoring ecosystem changes over time if control does occur. Christmas Island is a tropical island with multiple invasive species, including two mammalian predators (black rats, Rattus rattus and feral cats, Felis catus). Black rats are known to prey upon island bird species (including their nests) elsewhere, but the severity of their impacts on Christmas Island birds is unclear. Describing these impacts would help managers decide whether rat control is warranted, especially as a cat eradication program underway on the island could conceivably result in increased rat density.

Aims. In this study, we quantify the impacts of rats on Christmas Island bird abundance and nesting success.

Methods. The abundance of four endemic forest bird species/subspecies (Christmas Island imperial pigeon, Ducula whartoni, emerald dove, Chalcophaps indica natalis, thrush, Turdus poliocephalus erythropleurus and white-eye, Zosterops natalis) was measured using transect surveys. Nest success was measured using remote sensing camera surveillance for one forest bird species (thrush) and one seabird species (red-tailed tropicbird, Phaethon rubicaudra westralis). We explored whether these measures were related to spatial variation in rat density and activity (measured by trapping and inkcards), the presence of other invasive species, habitat and seasonal variables.

Key results. Neither rat density nor activity explained the abundance of any forest bird species. Instead, seasonal and habitat features were more consistent predictors of bird abundance. White-eyes were more abundant near yellow crazy ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes) supercolonies. Nest success for thrushes and red-tailed tropicbirds was either not, or only very weakly, influenced by rats.

Conclusions. Black rats currently have little effect on the population sizes and nesting success of Christmas Island birds.

Implications.This study suggests that rat control is not currently a management priority, but ongoing monitoring of rat density, activity, and impacts is needed to ensure management can respond promptly if rat density or impacts change as cat control progresses towards eradication.

Context. Over the past few decades, many mammalian species have experienced range shifts, due to either local extinction or expansion, under accelerating global climate change. However, the distinct effects and ecological mechanisms behind the anthropogenic and climate pressures on range shifts have not been fully studied.

Aims. Our aim was to examine the impacts of climate warming and human disturbance on the local disappearance probability and northwards range contraction at the southern distribution boundary of the greater long-tailed hamster (Tscherskia triton), a rodent pest, in northern China. The assessment was based on historical records from 1963 to 2018.

Methods. Logistic generalised additive models were used to quantify the association between local disappearance probability and environmental variables in the greater long-tailed hamsters. The air temperature threshold for local disappearance of the greater long-tailed hamsters (defined as the disappearance threshold) was estimated using the year following the last observation year. We also predicted changes in the distribution of the greater long-tailed hamsters under future warming scenarios.

Key results. The greater long-tailed hamster population has experienced notable population decline and range contraction along its southern boundary during the past 48 years. The probability of local disappearance is closely associated with climate warming (indexed by the annual air temperature), drought (indexed by annual precipitation), and human disturbance (indexed by the population density). The threshold of the yearly maximum temperature for local disappearance was 15.8 ± 3.87°C, and the average maximum temperature of the warmest months (from June to August) was 28.21 ± 2.71°C. Our projection model indicates that ongoing climate warming will cause more range contraction of the plain areas at the southern boundary of the greater long-tailed hamster distribution.

Conclusions. Over recent decades, rapid climate change and human disturbance have been associated with population decline and northwards range contraction of the southern boundary for the greater long-tailed hamster population in China.

Implications. Our study has significant implications for managing the damage done to farmland crops by this species, as well as the future conservation of this species in natural ecosystems.

Context. Anthropogenic landscape changes have substantial effects on biodiversity and animal populations worldwide. However, anthropogenic landscape change can take a variety of forms, and its effects on wildlife species can vary by landscape context and scale. It is therefore critical that studies of the effects of anthropogenic landscape change on wildlife consider landscape context and model effects of landscape change at multiple scales. Mesopredators serve as an excellent case study of scale-dependent and even contradictory effects of anthropogenic landscape change, because mesopredator populations can respond both positively and negatively to landscape change depending on its form (e.g. agricultural production, urbanisation) and scale.

Aims. The aim of this study was to model relationships between multiple aspects of anthropogenic landscape change, including agricultural production and the proliferation of non-native shrubs, and relative abundance of three mesopredator species: Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), and raccoon (Procyon lotor).

Methods. We summarised landscape variables at two scales and built both single-scale and multi-scale models linking relative abundance of mesopredators to landscape variables.

Key results. We found that relative abundance of all three species was most related to either the transition from natural areas to agricultural areas (brown-to-green gradient) or the likelihood of presence of non-native shrubs. We also found that responses to anthropogenic landscape change varied by spatial scale; for instance, skunks and raccoons had higher relative abundance in parts of Illinois with more forest cover and agriculture, respectively, but avoided more highly forested and agricultural areas, respectively, at smaller scales.

Conclusions. Mesopredator responses to landscape change were highly variable and scale-dependent, but were generally related to transitions from forest to agriculture or the presence of non-native shrubs.

Implications. Our study demonstrates the need to model effects of anthropogenic landscape change at multiple scales, given the differing results that can be achieved when landscape variables are measured at multiple scales.

Context. Understanding the temporal and spatial scales at which wildlife move is vital for conservation and management. This is especially important for semi-aquatic species that make frequent inter-wetland movements to fulfil life-history requirements.

Aims. We aimed to investigate the drivers of movement and space-use of the imperilled spotted turtle (Clemmys guttata), a seasonal wetland specialist, in three large, isolated wetland complexes in Virginia, USA.

Methods. We used VHF radio-transmitters to radio-locate adult and juvenile turtles, and estimated movement and space-use during their active and aestivation seasons (March–August). We then used generalised linear mixed models to examine how movement and space-use varied, based on intrinsic turtle characteristics and extrinsic wetland and climatic factors.

Key results. We show that, on average, individual spotted turtles used five wetlands per year (range 3–13), and that their inter-wetland movement and movement distance varied seasonally in accordance with wetland availability and breeding phenology. Spotted turtle movement and space-use was influenced by the arrangement and size of the wetland complexes, with turtles moving further and occupying larger home-ranges as size and distance between wetlands increased. Inter-wetland movement was not influenced by intrinsic turtle effects but larger adult turtles moved further, used more wetlands, and had larger home-ranges than smaller turtles.

Conclusions. Turtle responses to variation in season and wetland configuration highlight the need for complex and dynamic landscapes required to sustain this species.

Implications. This study has important conservation implications showing that spotted turtles rely on a large number of diverse wetlands, as well as upland habitat, to fulfil their resource needs – and that these habitat associations vary seasonally. Results from our study can aid the understanding of spatial and temporal variation in patch characteristics (e.g. quality and extent) and inter-patch movement by organisms, which is critical for the conservation and management of semi-aquatic species and other organisms that occupy patchy habitat complexes.

Context. Quantifying marine turtle-nest depredation by daily observer monitoring requires substantial labour.

Aims. To quantify nest depredation of the Vulnerable flatback turtle (Natator depressus) at one of its largest rookeries and to compare effectiveness of different monitoring methods.

Methods. We used daily observer monitoring and passive infrared-camera traps separately or in combination to record nest depredation, and identified impacts on remaining eggs and hatchlings in depredated nests.

Key results. More than a quarter (28%) of the 69 monitored nests were confirmed as depredated, although this figure is an underestimate of total losses because camera traps detected twice as many depredation events (39%) as did direct observation (17%) (P = 0.012). Cameras also provided important behavioural data and identified predators. Although reptile and bird predators were also recorded, the introduced red fox (Vulpes vulpes) was the primary predator identified, digging into 26% of the monitored nests. More than half of the depredation events by foxes (58% or 11/19 nests) occurred late term, between turtles hatching and emerging from the nest, which therefore means that losses calculated through counts of eggshell left in the nest are underestimates because predation of hatchlings is not included by the eggshell count method. Furthermore, almost half (42%) of all depredated nests were depredated more than once, with some nests opened up to five times, potentially exacerbating clutch losses due to environmental exposure.

Conclusions. Egg losses for confirmed depredated nests (27 ± 37%, range 0–100%) were three times the background levels (i.e. 9.3% of eggs that failed to hatch as a result of embryo death during development).

Implications. The results of this study strongly warrant the implementation of ongoing fox predator monitoring and mitigation strategies to protect nests at this nationally, and internationally, conservation-significant population of flatback turtles.

Context. Invasive vertebrates have significant negative impacts on biodiversity and agricultural production worldwide. Increased connectivity among countries, through trade and tourism, is escalating the rate of introductions of vertebrate species, particularly herpetofauna, across international borders. In Australia, Asian black-spined toads (ABSTs; Duttaphrynus melanostictus) are one of the species most intercepted at borders. They are considered a biosecurity risk because of the potential for negative environmental impacts, similar to those caused by cane toads (Rhinella marina).

Aims. We aimed to compare ABSTs with cane toads to investigate potential impacts and distribution of ABSTs in the Australian context. We also aimed to identify knowledge gaps regarding ABST biology and the potential role of cane toads in an ABST invasion in Australia.

Methods. We undertook a literature review to obtain published data to compare the life history characteristics of ABSTs and cane toads. We also modelled climatic niche overlap and compared suitable habitat for both species in Australia.

Key results. Our results show ABSTs and cane toads have broadly similar reproductive life histories and feeding niches. In particular, similarities include large clutch sizes, preferred oviposition sites, and diet at tadpole and adult life stages. In Australia, the species share suitable potential habitat, particularly in North Queensland, where the majority of ABST incursions have occurred. The species differ in size, call characteristics, clutch size relative to body size, and egg development rate, although the environment also influences these traits. We identify gaps in our knowledge of ABST spatial ecology, thermal tolerances, water reliance, and habitat.

Conclusions. ABSTs pose a significant biosecurity threat to Australia. Similarities in life history to cane toads means they may have similar impacts, but may have a more limited distribution in Australia. Invasion of Australia by ABSTs would likely result in interactions with cane toads, but it is not possible to accurately determine the outcomes of those interactions without further investigation.

Implications. Addressing knowledge gaps and quantitatively determining the potential for competition between ABSTs and cane toads will assist surveillance and response planning for ABST incursions in Australia.

Context. The deleterious impacts of cat predation on wildlife have been well documented. Additionally, unowned cats may act as reservoirs of disease important to public and companion animal health and their proclivity for roaming and fighting enables effective disease transmission. Urban environments support the highest human populations and companion animal densities, increasing the potential for disease transmission from unowned cats to people and pets. However, there is little data on the prevalence of pathogens in unowned cat populations.

Aims. This aim of this research was to establish baseline prevalence data for priority pathogens in an urban population of unowned cats.

Methods. One hundred unowned cat cadavers were collected from the Brisbane City Council region, Queensland, Australia. Blood and additional organ or tissue samples were collected post-mortem. Diagnostic methods for pathogen detection included use of real-time polymerase-chain reaction, commercially available rapid enzyme-linked-immunosorbent assay, lavage and faecal flotation.

Key results. Pathogen carriage was found in 79% (95% CI 71, 87%) of sampled cats. In total, 62% (95% CI 52, 72%) of cats showed evidence of co-carriage of two or more pathogenic organisms. The overall prevalence found for pathogens and parasites investigated were: Toxoplasma gondii, 7% (95% CI 2, 12%); Coxiella burnetii, 0.0% (95% CI 0, 0%); feline immunodeficiency virus, 12% (95% CI 6, 18%); feline leukaemia virus, 0.0% (95% CI 0, 0%); and gastrointestinal parasites, 76.8% (95% CI 68, 85%).

Conclusions. This study reports contemporary prevalence data for these pathogens that have not previously been available for unowned cats of south-east Queensland. High rates of gastrointestinal parasitism observed throughout the study population prompt concerns of a general increase in pathogenic prevalence, especially in comparison with that of owned domestic cats, as per previously published literature. The presence of signs of fighting is an important risk factor for increased likelihood of infection.

Implications. Data produced from this study contribute to informing cat management efforts throughout urban regions. Continued and expanded investigations, considering prevalence and risk factors of pathogens important to human and companion animal health, are recommended for the south-east Queensland area and beyond.

Context. As advanced satellite-based environmental data become widely accessible, emerging opportunities exist to understand avian lifecycle events at continental scales. Although this growing toolbox offers much promise, an abundance of options may appear overwhelming to ecologists and point to the need for interdisciplinary collaborations to develop and interpret complex, spatio-temporal models.

Aims. Here, we demonstrate that satellite-based environmental variables complement conventional variables in spatio-temporal phenology models. The objective of this case study was to assess the degree to which including more sophisticated, satellite-based greenness data in association with a customised growing degree-day metric, can improve traditional phenological models based solely on monthly temperature and precipitation.

Methods. Using 2001–2018 purple martin (Progne subis) first arrival dates (n = 49 481) from the Purple Martin Conservation Association, we develop a predictive model for their first arrival dates on the basis of traditional temperature and precipitation values from ground-based meteorological stations, the MODIS satellite-based greenness index, and a more sophisticated growing degree-day metric. We used a Bayesian framework to construct 10 spatio-temporal candidate models on the basis of different combinations of predictor variables and our best model included a combination of both traditional and customised MODIS-based variables.

Key results. Our results indicated that purple martins arrive earlier when greening occurs earlier than the mean, which is also associated with warmer spring temperatures. In addition, wetter February months also predicted earlier martin arrivals. There was no directional change in purple martin first arrival dates from 2001 to 2018 in our study region.

Conclusions. Our results suggest that satellite-based environmental variables complement traditional variables such as mean monthly temperature and precipitation in models of purple martin migratory phenology.

Implications. Including emerging and conventional variables in spatio-temporal models allows complex migratory changes to be detected and interpreted at broad spatial scales, which is critical as Citizen Science efforts expand. Our results also pointed to the importance of assembling interdisciplinary research teams to assess the utility of novel data products.

Context. Road networks are related to two global problems: habitat loss and degradation, and the decline of biodiversity. Wildlife roadkill is one of the most obvious and immediate impacts of linear infrastructure that affects all vertebrate groups, and some species, such as large carnivores, are more susceptible to fragmentation by roads due to their wide-ranging movements and home ranges.

Aims. Recently, black bear (Ursus americanus) sightings have increased in urban and suburban areas. The objectives of this study were: to identify and characterise road crossing sites used by black bears; to understand whether bears select specific landscape or road features for crossing; to compare crossing and roadkill sites; and to identify the most important variables in both groups to propose short-term mitigation strategies.

Methods. For the analysis of crossing sites, black bear individuals were captured from 2014 to 2018 and released with a GPS collar. We also calculated the dynamic model of Brownian motion to identify the road crossing sites. We obtained collision records from field work and government agencies. We performed Firth’s penalised-likelihood logistic regression models to identify the most important variables of highway or landscape in the probability of crossing or roadkill.

Key results. We captured 15 black bear individuals (11 males and four females), seven of which crossed a road at least once. Most of the crossings occurred during the night, which explains the results of the regression model between crossing and roadkill sites because crossings are a function of the percentage of buses and urban use. We also found that the speed at roadkill sites is significantly higher than at crossing sites.

Conclusions. This study contributed aspects necessary to understand the management of highways and reduce their impact on the black bear population in Mexico, such as the identification of priority mitigation sites. Systematic monitoring of roadkill in Mexico is required to propose specific mitigation sites that will benefit more vertebrate groups.

Implications. The information generated in this research forms the basis of identification of optimal sites for strategies to mitigate the bear–road conflict and help the conservation of the species.

Context. Population-monitoring programs often use direct (e.g. live capture or spotlighting) or indirect (e.g. scats sightings) observations to estimate population abundance. Such methods, however, are often inadequate for rare, elusive, or cryptic species due to the difficulty in achieving sufficient encounters or detection rates. The mala (Lagorchestes hirsutus), a small native Australian macropod, listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN, is difficult to capture, susceptible to capture myopathy, and not easily sighted in their dense habitat; consequently, the population size cannot always be estimated. The use of molecular markers to identify individual genotypes from non-invasively collected samples is increasingly being used in wildlife conservation and may be an alternative approach for mala.

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of non-invasive scat DNA sampling to estimate the population abundance of mala.

Methods. A panel of microsatellite markers was developed for the identification of individual mala via profiling of their scats. Scats were systematically collected from a wild mala population located in an 1100-ha fenced reserve in Western Australia. Individual genotypes were determined using the microsatellite markers, and the abundance of mala was estimated using the genotypes with spatially explicit capture–recapture (SECR) and mark–resight analyses.

Key results. The genetic markers proved variable and with sufficient exclusionary power to confidently identify unique individuals (mean locus genotyping error rate: 3.1%). Individual genetic identification from scat sampling, when used with traditional mark–recapture/resight analytical models, provides feasible estimates of population abundance. This is the first reliable abundance estimate of this mala population, suggesting a >70% increase in population size since the initial reintroduction of 64 individuals in 2011–13.

Conclusions. Given the inherent difficulties in surveying mala, this approach would be valuable to ensure effective monitoring of the few remaining fenced and island mala populations to prevent further decline of this vulnerable species.

Implications. This is the first study to identify species-specific microsatellite markers for mala and use genetic-capture sampling with scat DNA to estimate the abundance of a mala population. The study provides an evaluation of a valuable species monitoring technique that can be applied to other rare, elusive, or cryptic threatened species.

Context. The Covid-19 pandemic led to increased use of green/blue space as indoor spaces became frequently inaccessible. These changes affected the direct interactions between humans and nature.

Aims. To investigate the links between mental health, loneliness, wellbeing, and interaction with non-companion animals, proximity to and use of green/blue space.

Methods. A cross-sectional online survey of adult UK residents was conducted between April and June 2020. The questionnaire included validated and bespoke items measuring demographics and exposures and outcomes related to mental health, wellbeing, loneliness, human–animal interactions with non-companion animals (wildlife/farm animals), and proximity to and use of green/blue space before and since the first UK Covid-19 lockdown.

Key results. Of 5926 participants, 4408 (74.4%) reported interacting with non-companion animals at least every other day. Frequent engagement with non-companion animals was significantly associated with smaller decreases in mental health scores (b = 0.131, 95% CI [0.007–0.256], P = 0.038) and smaller increases in loneliness scores (b = −0.135, 95% CI [−0.241–0.030], P = 0.012). Just under half (48.4%, n = 2867) reported living directly next to a green/blue space, and over half (52.3%; n = 3097) reported using such space at least every day since lockdown. Regular use of green/blue space since lockdown was significantly associated with higher mental health (b = 0.154, 95% CI [0.037–0.272], P = 0.010), lower loneliness (b = −0.334, 95% CI [−0.430 – −0.238], P = 0.001), and higher wellbeing (b = 0.810, 95% CI [0.572–1.047], P = 0.001). Closer proximity to such space was significantly associated with lower loneliness scores (b = −0.224, 95% CI [−0.319 – −0.130], P = 0.001), and higher wellbeing scores (b = 0.632, 95% CI [0.391–0.873], P = 0.001).

Conclusion The multi-faceted human–nature relationship may promote key human health benefits in the context of the lockdown.

Implications. These findings have highlighted the importance of green/blue space and the human–animal relationship, and how they might play a critical role in maintaining people’s mental health within a pandemic context. Further targeted investigations relating to these areas and links with human health are important within both pandemic and non-pandemic contexts.

Context. Accurately estimating wildlife roadkill is necessary to compare different roads, periods, and species, and to plan and assess mitigation effectiveness. We must account for the two main sources of errors associated with carcass sampling – carcass detection and persistence. Open-population models are used to estimate abundance, survival probabilities, and recruitment in living animal populations, accounting for imperfect detection, and they can be used in the context of animal fatalities.

Aims. The aim of this study was to explore an open-population approach to estimate comparable roadkill rates from carcass capture–recapture data, accounting for carcass detection and persistence.

Methods. We surveyed carcasses of the white-eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris) and black-and-white tegu lizard (Salvator merianae) on four road stretches using two sampling designs with different number of visits and sampling sessions. Carcasses were marked to be recaptured over visits within the same sampling session, resulting in a capture history for each carcass. Encounter history data were modelled using the superpopulation formulation of the open-population capture–recapture model under Bayesian inference for different datasets. A daily roadkill rate per kilometre was derived from the model entry probability estimate.

Key results. We estimated a daily roadkill rate with 1501 captures from 447 opossum carcasses and 511 captures from 218 tegu carcasses. For full data, mean carcass detection over the sessions ranged from 0.49 to 0.85 for the opossum and from 0.27 to 0.80 for the tegu, and mean carcass persistence ranged from 0.60 to 0.94 for the opossum and from 0.64 to 0.91 for the tegu. Scenarios with more occasions and captures increased precision of roadkill rates.

Conclusions. We were able to explicitly estimate roadkill rates using an open-population capture–recapture model under a Bayesian framework. It provides accurate roadkill numbers for a known time frame and road extension, accounting for imperfect detection and its associated uncertainty. Under scenarios of few carcasses, users should consider a higher number of occasions.

Implications. Not addressing carcass sampling errors or simplistically addressing them (e.g. only once during the study period) could mislead mitigation efforts. The approach used here can be used to estimate fatalities in other locations, such as windfarms and powerlines, for which repeated observations of marked carcasses are an option.

Context. Prairie dogs (Cynomys spp.) are rodents enjoyed by some humans; yet, they cause crop and property damage, and carry zoonotic disease. Non-lethal control of prairie dogs is of interest in urban/suburban settings. The injectable immunocontraceptive vaccine GonaCon (active ingredient is gonadotropin-releasing hormone [GnRH]) has been shown to be effective at reducing fertility in equine and deer, and is a US EPA-registered vaccine for use in these ungulate species.

Aims. To conduct a replicated field study to test efficacy of GonaCon in black-tailed prairie dogs (C. ludovicianus), and if found to be efficacious, to help facilitate the EPA registration of this product for prairie dog management in urban/suburban areas.

Methods. Prairie dogs were live-trapped in October–December 2018 in three treatment and three control sites. Every captured female ≥660 g was injected with 0.4 mL of either GonaCon (0.032% w/w GnRH) at treatment sites or a sham vaccine (absent of GnRH) at control sites. Juveniles and adults were counted at all six sites to establish juvenile:adult (ratio) and juvenile density in May–June 2019 (determining initial GonaCon effectiveness) and 2020 (determining persistence of contraception).

Key results. In 2019, the juvenile:adult ratio was significantly reduced (P = 0.0022) in GonaCon (mean ± s.e.: 0.23 ± 0.01) relative to the sham (1.10 ± 0.58) sites. Juvenile density was three times greater in sham than GonaCon sites. In 2020, GonaCon sites produced equal offspring to nearby sham sites.

Conclusions. GonaCon is highly effective during the first year (2019) but not in the second year (2020) if only a small area (0.6–2.8 ha) or small proportion of females in a colony is treated, such as was undertaken in this study.

Implications. In 2022, GonaCon−Prairie Dogs was EPA-registered. Treating whole colonies of prairie dogs at once is favoured; yet, if small or partial colony treatment is desired, then annual GonaCon treatment may be needed.

Context. Predation risk, whether from large carnivores or humans, is a primary driver of movement and habitat selection for ungulates. Throughout much of the geographical range of white-tailed deer, predation risk during autumn and winter is driven by hunters; however, information about how deer respond to hunting pressure during a long hunting season is lacking.

Aims. We aimed to determine how differences in daily temporal exposure to hunting risk affected habitat selection of adult male white-tailed deer.

Methods. We deployed GPS collars on 42 adult male white-tailed deer during the 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 firearm hunting seasons in Mississippi, USA. GPS collars provided fine-scale spatial and temporal information regarding habitat use of our study area.

Key results. We showed a mismatch between what hunters and deer selected; landscape characteristics selected most by hunters were least selected by deer during the day, which we believe has never been documented. Fine-scale temporal analysis showed that deer selected for some areas (food plots) as much as five times more often during the night, when no hunting risk was present, than during the day, when risk was present.

Conclusions. Habitat selection by deer varies depending on the amount of risk that is present. Even in a high-risk heavily hunted area, adult male white-tailed deer can recognise external cues on the landscape, and shift habitat selection both spatially and temporally to favour areas that present less risk.

Implications. This study, to our knowledge, provides the first evidence that white-tailed deer actively selected for habitat characteristics that hunters were not utilising. To minimise the effectiveness of risk-avoidance behaviours used by deer, we suggest hunters moderate temporal hunting effort across time to decrease the risk to which deer are exposed, thereby minimising the response by deer.

Context. Species of the tropical frog Family Hylodidae tend to be restricted to streams and, hence, have a small occupancy area. Hylodes fredi (Canedo and Pombal 2007), a diurnal stream-dwelling species endemic to the Atlantic Forest in Ilha Grande, south-eastern Brazil, is one such species. Because of scarce population studies, it is also categorised as Data Deficient (DD) in the IUCN Red List. Previous studies on the habitat use by this species did not account for imperfect detection, which could have led to biased results.

Aims. We aimed to systematically describe the microhabitats occupied by H. fredi, by generating a fine-scale occupancy model while accounting for imperfect detection.

Methods.We sampled six streams where the species is known to occur. Perpendicular transects were established in each stream and further subdivided into 10 sampling plots. Single-species and single-season occupancy models were created with the UNMARKED R package, and model selection was performed on the basis of the Akaike information criterion.

Key results. We observed the species in 70 of the 275 sampled sites, which resulted in a naïve occupancy of 0.28 and detectability of 0.25. The best models suggest that H. fredi occupancy increases positively with rock cover and inversely with leaf-litter cover. Detectability reduced with an increase in leaf litter cover and varied with the air temperature.

Conclusions.We conclude that H. fredi occupancy is affected by the presence of rock and leaf-litter cover. The data indicated that the species is restricted to the stream channel and does not seem to occupy forested areas that are distanced from the stream margins.

Implications. Considering that H. fredi and many other congeneric species are listed as ‘Data Deficient’ in the IUCN Red List, it is important to define a threat category so as to conserve them. Many stream-associated species tend to have their occupancy overestimated, leading to an underestimation of their threat risk. This study systematically demonstrated that H. fredi has a strict and reduced occupancy, mostly limited to the stream margins, that should be considered when determining conservation efforts for this and ecologically similar species.

Context. The decline and extinction of native burrowing mammals across much of Australia has resulted in a loss of underground refugia constructed by native fauna in the environment. The introduced European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is now the most widespread mammalian burrower across Australia. Rabbits are an invasive species in Australia, and the destruction of rabbit warrens for pest management is common practice. This destruction of warrens removes a potential refuge for both rabbits and other species in the environment. In landscapes where critical weight range burrowing mammals have declined, the widespread destruction of rabbit warrens removes many underground refuges for several commensal animal species.

Aims. To identify the use of rabbit warrens by fauna in the seasonally hot, semi-arid Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park (IFRNP) in South Australia.

Methods. We used camera traps placed at burrow entrances of warrens and nearby structure to identify the vertebrate species that interact with rabbit warrens in the IFRNP.

Key results. We recorded 11 bird, nine mammal and eight reptile species present at the entrances of rabbit warrens. Only four of the taxa recorded on cameras in our study showed a preference for warrens over adjacent above-ground structure, three of them introduced species. The alien commensal species recorded using the burrows were rabbits, house mice (Mus musculus) and feral cats (Felis catus).

Conclusions. Rabbit warrens in the IFRNP are an important resource for a range of native and alien commensal species. In our study, they seem to be of special importance for introduced species.

Implications. Warren removal in the IFRNP may negatively impact native commensal species in treated areas but is likely to be of long-term net benefit for a wider range of native animals.

Context. Artificial intelligence algorithms are beneficial for automating the monitoring of threatened species. Devil facial tumour disease (DFTD) is an endemic disease threatening Australia’s Tasmanian devil. The disease is a cancer that can be transmitted from one devil to another during social interactions. Cameras and trapping techniques have been employed to monitor the spread of the disease in the wild. The use of cameras allows for more frequent monitoring of devils than does trapping, but differentiating wounds from tumours in images is challenging, and this requires time and expertise.

Aims. The purpose of this work is to develop a computer vision system to assist in the monitoring of DFTD spread.

Methods. We propose a system that involves image segmentation, feature extraction, and classification steps. U-net architecture, global average pooling layer of pre-trained Resnet-18, and support vector machine (SVM) classifiers were employed for these purposes, respectively. In total, 1250 images of 961 healthy and 289 diseased (DFTD) devils were separated into training, validation, and testing sets.

Results. The proposed algorithm achieved 92.4% classification accuracy for the differentiation of healthy devils from those with DFTD.

Conclusions. The high classification accuracy means that our method can help field workers with monitoring devils.

Implications. The proposed approach will allow for more frequent analysis of devils while reducing the workload of field staff. Ultimately, this automation could be expanded to other species for simultaneous monitoring at shorter intervals to facilitate broadened ecological assessments.

Context. Recent declines in small game hunting participation are concerning because of the resulting decline in conservation funding generated from hunting. Combatting hunting participation declines requires understanding what impacts hunters’ satisfaction. Literature on hunter satisfaction has primarily focused on big game hunters, elements of which may not apply to small game hunters.

Aims. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of various harvest and non-harvest factors on Tennessee small game hunters’ satisfaction.

Methods. After the 2019–2020 small game hunting season ended, a sample of 15 115 Tennessee hunters and trappers was asked to participate in a mix-mode questionnaire related to their expectations, harvest, motivations, constraints, and satisfaction.

Key results. In total, 3994 individuals responded to the questionnaire and 1440 reported they participated in the 2019–2020 hunting and trapping season, 634 of which hunted small game. A path analysis showed that small game hunters’ seasonal satisfaction was influenced by expectations, appreciative motivations, structural and interpersonal constraints, satisfaction with the number of game animals seen and harvested, use of public land, and harvest success.

Conclusions. Various activity-related factors significantly impact small game hunters’ seasonal satisfaction.

Implications. These findings shed light on the various factors that influence small game hunters’ seasonal satisfaction and could help wildlife agencies develop programming to help retain current small game hunters. To improve small game hunters’ seasonal satisfaction, we suggest agencies focus on addressing structural constraints, fostering realistic expectations, and providing opportunities to fulfil appreciative motivations.

Context. Invasive species negatively affect natural communities and human activities. The grey squirrel is an invasive species in the UK, causing damage to forestry and the decline of the native red squirrel. Oral contraceptives have the potential to reduce numbers of grey squirrels; however, to be effective a sufficient proportion of a population must consume a bait containing contraceptives.

Aims. The objective of this study was to estimate the efficacy of delivering baits via feeders to grey squirrels and to determine the factors most important to bait uptake.

Methods. Bait uptake was measured using the bait marker Rhodamine B mixed with 100% hazelnut butter and delivered to grey squirrels via purpose-designed feeders. Different concentrations of Rhodamine B were first trialled on captive grey squirrels for their palatability and detectability in the hair. Bait-uptake field trials were then conducted in 10 UK woodlands by using the preferred concentration.

Key results. In captive trials, it was found that a concentration of 0.18% Rhodamine B mixed in hazelnut butter was palatable to grey squirrels and that individuals needed to consume only small amounts (<5 g) for it to be detected in the flank hair by using an ultraviolet microscope. It was possible to deliver bait to the majority of grey squirrels in 6 of 10 woods within 4 days. Season, feeder density and squirrel density were important factors affecting bait uptake, with more squirrels consuming bait in summer than in winter and from three feeders per hectare rather than from one per hectare.

Conclusions. This study demonstrated that baits delivered via feeders can target the majority of grey squirrels in woodland environments.

Implications. Oral contraceptives could offer a cost-effective tool to reduce numbers of grey squirrels across the UK landscape and mitigate the negative impacts they have on native wildlife and tree health.

Globally, African savanna elephants have been assessed as ‘endangered’. Consequently, additional threats and losses due to human–elephant conflict (HEC) could further exacerbate the species’ decline. In stark contrast, South Africa’s elephant populations are mostly confined within fenced-in reserves that impede natural processes such as migration. As ecosystem engineers, elephant population growth herein should be limited. Within South Africa, elephant management has evolved as differing wildlife philosophies from utilitarian conservation (‘nature for man’) to biocentric preservation (‘nature for nature’) and a combination thereof, have been practiced. Traditionally, both HEC and population control have been largely synonymous with lethal control, i.e. culling. However, with the increase of public or expert input to Policy, lethal control is not favoured by the public. As an alternative, immunocontraception of female African savanna elephants through non-invasive, native porcine zona pellucida (pZP) vaccinations has been employed successfully and is currently adopted in 43 elephant reserves across South Africa. Current legislation now recommends culling as the last population management resort. Newly promulgated legislation calls for wellbeing and welfare to be carefully measured in all biodiversity management decisions taken to minimise threats to biodiversity. As a keystone species, elephant is a direct driver of biodiversity change. Accordingly, and in light of these developments, all population management options, including immunocontraception, must be fully considered in South Africa’s largest national park, the Kruger.

Context. The common pigeon (Columba livia var. domestica) is a synurbic species widely distributed around the world. High local densities of pigeons have negative impacts on animal and public health. Urban pigeon fouling also damages buildings and infrastructures, resulting in increased maintenance costs. Although the reduction of food and shelter would be the most effective control method, it does not apply in most cases where the amount of shelter and food can be unlimited and control very difficult achieve. However, a reduction and control of the population by fertility control using nicarbazin (NCZ, Ovistop®) could be achieved without the need to capture and remove any specimens.

Aim and methods The aims of this study were (1) to describe the experience of up to 8 years of use of fertility control by NCZ on pigeon numbers in 24 towns and cities in Catalonia (Spain), (2) to assess the potential for non-target species to be affected by NCZ, and (3) to quantify the costs of implementing local population control of urban pigeons via NCZ. Local number of pigeons was estimated via population censuses.

Key results. From the beginning of the treatment, a significant steady decreasing trend (average of −12% per year) in the pigeon abundance was registered. In very few instances, non-target birds species were observed to feed on NCZ.

Conclusions and implications NZC was an effective and selective method of animal welfare to reduce the total number of pigeons in the municipalities included in this study, while not affecting other non-target species. The estimated cost of the annual treatment was €33.6 per pigeon; in 68% of the municipalities, the total annual cost was halved after 3 years of treatment. The findings of this study are in agreement with previous experiences controlling pigeon colonies by using NCZ in other countries.

Context. Stress or injury resulting from capture and marking of animals is a potential cause of mortality following release. Multiple methods have been developed to identify sources of post-capture mortality, but these are most often applied following completion of field work to identify an appropriate censor window for other analyses.

Aims. Following unacceptable levels of post-capture mortality (13 of 53) in radio-marked individuals in the first year of a larger wild turkey research project in Maine, USA, we assessed post-capture survival as data became available to inform proactive changes to capture protocols, with the goals of improving animal welfare and data quality.

Methods. We evaluated potential sources of post-capture mortality related to the capture and marking process, individual characteristics of the turkey, and local weather conditions. We then used results from the preliminary analysis to inform adaptive changes to capture protocols in subsequent years and confirmed the effectiveness of these changes through a final analysis.

Key results. We found that greater handling time was positively correlated with increased post-capture survival, possibly in response to releasing turkeys in larger groups to facilitate regrouping. We also found that transmitter style impacted post-capture survival, such that female turkeys fitted with backpack-style transmitters experienced a survival rate of 0.787 (0.677–0.861 95% CI), compared with 0.903 (0.538–0.976 95% CI) for those fitted with a necklace transmitter, although adjustments to the fit of backpack transmitters appeared to help mitigate such issues.

Conclusions. Following informed adjustments to our capture protocols, we observed a dramatic increase in post-capture survival such that no mortalities were experienced in the first 30 days post capture in the final year of our study (n = 65). Although our estimated censor window was similar to other studies (~10 days), differences in effects of external stressors further the need for adaptive capture protocols because local stressors and risks may vary according to climate and ecosystem characteristics such as predator communities and habitat type.

Implications. We recommend that when possible, investigators continuously assess their protocols throughout the capture process and adapt accordingly to limit negative repercussions of capture and handling to wildlife.

Context. Overabundant native wildlife can pose serious challenges for managers. The most direct, immediate way to reduce density-dependent impacts is by culling, but lethal control often lacks public support. Fertility control offers a non-lethal management alternative.

Aims. We conducted two fertility-control projects on eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus), a common and widespread species in Australia. We aimed to evaluate three key components of an integrated fertility-control project, namely, delivery efficiency, contraceptive efficacy and population-level outcomes.

Methods. The two study sites on the urban fringe of Melbourne, Australia, were small reserves. Both had undergone an irruptive peak and subsequent crash, with negative impacts on animal health. Gresswell Forest (52 ha) is open forest habitat enclosed by a kangaroo-proof fence. Serendip Sanctuary (250 ha) is grassy woodland and retired pasture, with a boundary allowing kangaroo movement onto neighbouring properties. We captured kangaroos with a dart gun at night and treated all healthy adult females with subdermal levonorgestrel implants.

Key results. Delivery efficiency (catch-per-unit effort) was greater from a vehicle at Serendip Sanctuary than on foot at Gresswell Forest, with only a marginal decline over successive nights at both sites. Background fecundity was 91% at Serendip Sanctuary, but close to zero at Gresswell Forest. Treatment efficacy was high, being 86–100% infertility at Serendip Sanctuary and 96–100% at Gresswell Forest. At Serendip Sanctuary, the proportion of females treated never reached 75%, whereas only one female at Gresswell Forest remained untreated after 3 years. Population density at Serendip Sanctuary exceeded the target range 3 years after culling and fertility control. No culling occurred at Gresswell Forest, but fertility control apparently held population density at a moderate level, albeit much higher than the density target.

Conclusions. Future management at Serendip Sanctuary and Gresswell Forest will require a sustained fertility-control effort. Further culling may also be required to complement fertility control at Serendip Sanctuary, the larger, open site.

Implications. Contraceptive efficacy of levonorgestrel is high in kangaroos and implants can be delivered efficiently, but achieving control of a large, open population will be challenging.

Context. Fire has played an integral role in regulating patterns of biodiversity for millions of years. However, anthropogenic disturbance and climate change has altered fire activity – driving increases in both fire severity and scale. The effect fire now has on the persistence of biodiversity is poorly known, especially for frogs. Studies examining frog responses to fire usually have small sample sizes, focus upon small geographic areas and are based on low-severity fires, which can mean results are not applicable to high-severity fires, such as those expected under future climate change.

Aims. Our aims were to examine (1) persistence of frog species, measured by species richness, up to 18 months post-fire, and (2) the effects of varying fire severity on frog species richness and recovery, where we expected higher fire severity to lead to lower species richness after fire.

Methods. Using large-scale citizen science data from the Australian Museum’s FrogID project, coupled with remotely sensed fire data, we present a spatially and taxonomically broad analysis examining post-fire recovery responses for Australian frog species after the 2019/2020 ‘Black Summer’ bushfires.

Key results. We reveal no overall decrease in the species richness of Australian frogs both in the short- and long-term post-fire. Furthermore, species richness did not decline with increasing fire severity. Instead, species richness and its response to fire was highly site-specific.

Conclusions. We provide evidence that widespread and common Australian frog species have persisted post-fire in most sites and concluded that this is potentially due to their ability to shelter from fire adequately and/or La Niña-driven high rainfall offering conditions conducive to breeding activity and persistence.

Implications. We show how citizen science provides critical data for conservation, especially in response to unprecedented disturbance events, such as the 2019/2020 megafires. Our research also highlights the need for ongoing and targeted scientific monitoring, especially for less common or threatened species.

Context. Australia has been a battleground of invasive versus native species for ~200 years. Two of the most impactful invasive species to Australian animal communities are the toxic cane toad (Rhinella marina) and the predatory feral cat (Felis catus). Australia’s native fauna is evolutionarily naïve to both invaders because neither’s taxonomic group is native to the continent. Both invaders have had severe effects on Australian native animal communities including species extinctions, extirpations, and severe population declines, but until now their effects have generally been thought to be independent of one another.

Aims. We aimed to determine the impacts of invasive cane toads on monitor lizards and feral cats by estimating changes in relative abundance before and after the toad invasion.

Methods. We studied toad impacts at three sites in the Kimberley region of northern Australia. We used two methods for estimating relative abundance: camera traps and track station data. Data included greater than 4000 trap days and included 7 years over an 11-year period.

Key results. As expected, invading cane toads rapidly decimated populations of two species of monitor lizards (97–99% declines), including the top-order predatory Varanus panoptes. Unexpectedly, this loss was associated with a >10-fold mean increase in detection rates of cats by 5 years after the loss of V. panoptes, reflecting relative increases of 3.3–8.7 individual cats per site.

Conclusions. Although some unknown factor may have caused an increase in cats, their similar trophic position and niche to V. panoptes suggests that toads facilitated cats by effectively removing the lizards from the animal community. This interaction likely reflects one type of invasional meltdown, whereby a non-native species (cane toad) facilitated any aspect of another’s (feral cat) invasion (e.g. survival, reproduction, resource acquisition), but the latter has no detected influence on the former (+/0 interaction).

Implications. Because both invaders cause declines in animal populations and are difficult to control, the potentially synergistic tandem of cane toads and feral cats could have chronic, irreversible effects on animal communities.

Context. Ground baiting is a strategic method for reducing vertebrate pest populations. Best practice involves maximising bait availability to the target species, although sustaining this availability is resource intensive because baits need to be replaced each time they are taken. This study focused on improving pest population management through the novel baiting technique outlined in this manuscript, although there is potential use across other species and applications (e.g. disease management).

Aims. To develop and test an automated, intelligent, and semi-permanent, multi-bait dispenser that detects target species before distributing baits and provides another bait when a target species revisits the site.

Methods. We designed and field tested the Sentinel Bait Station, which comprises a camera trap with in-built species-recognition capacity, wireless communication and a dispenser with the capacity for five baits. A proof-of-concept prototype was developed and validated via laboratory simulation with images collected by the camera. The prototype was then evaluated in the field under real-world conditions with wild-living canids, using non-toxic baits.

Key results. Field testing achieved 19 automatically offered baits with seven bait removals by canids. The underlying image recognition algorithm yielded an accuracy of 90%, precision of 83%, sensitivity of 68% and a specificity of 96% throughout field testing. The response time of the system, from the point of motion detection (within 6–10 m and the field-of-view of the camera) to a bait being offered to a target species, was 9.81 ± 2.63 s.

Conclusions. The Sentinel Bait Station was able to distinguish target species from non-target species. Consequently, baits were successfully deployed to target species and withheld from non-target species. Therefore, this proof-of-concept device is able to successfully provide baits to successive targets from secure on-board storage, thereby overcoming the need for daily bait replacement.

Implications. The proof-of-concept Sentinel Bait Station design, together with the findings and observations from field trials, confirmed the system can deliver multiple baits and increase the specificity in which baits are presented to the target species using artificial intelligence. With further refinement and operational field trials, this device will provide another tool for practitioners to utilise in pest management programs.

Context. Monitoring the population dynamics of threatened species requires a landscape-scale understanding of their distribution over time. However, detectability is inherently low for rare, widely dispersed, and cryptic species. For animals that vocalise, passive acoustic recorders allow for efficient and repeated surveys over a large geographic area, increasing inference in relation to detectability and occupancy.

Aims. Our aim was to determine how well acoustic surveys, combined with automated species detection, identified the presence of the critically endangered plains-wanderer (Pedionomus torquatus) relative to a traditional method of nocturnal spotlighting surveys at sites across the Northern Plains of Victoria, Australia.

Methods. Using Hidden Markov Models, we created 17 different plains-wanderer call recognisers by varying input parameters and assessed their performance on the same training and testing audio dataset. We then applied our best-performing recogniser to a field audio dataset to estimate detectability and compared the presence of plains-wanderers at sites paired with nocturnal surveys.

Key results. Recognisers varied in their overall performance in detecting individual plains-wanderer calls but were equally effective at determining whether any plains-wanderer calls were detected at a site within our training and testing datasets. Although survey effort was not standardised across field survey methods, we found audio surveys and nocturnal spotlight surveys were equally successful at establishing site-level occupancy; however, acoustic surveys provide the potential to survey more sites over a given time period.

Conclusions. We suggest acoustic surveys can be an effective and efficient means to document occupancy at the landscape scale, facilitating prioritisation of nocturnal surveys to assess population demographic parameters including abundance and breeding status.

Implications. Acoustic surveys can provide a complementary method to establish occupancy for cryptic, vocally active, threatened species. We provide recommendations on ways to develop an effective acoustic monitoring program workflow, from data collection to acoustic analysis, that can be used by different user groups.

Context. The conservation of the threatened ghost bat (Macroderma gigas) is currently hampered by a lack of standardised survey methodology for detecting the species away from known roosts. The low amplitude of the species’ echolocation call, together with only sporadic production of social calls while foraging, means that acoustic detection is unreliable. However, the ghost bat is known to be physically responsive to full-spectrum playback of its own social calls when these are broadcast in close vicinity (~100 m) to known roosts.

Aims. Using a two-phase investigation, we aimed to establish whether playback could be used to detect ghost bats away from the roost, in open woodland habitat in the Northern Territory.

Methods. In phase one, a trial of paired (active treatment and control) call playback experiments was conducted at three distances (1 km, 2.5 km and 5 km) from four known roosts using the ghost bat’s ‘squabble’ social vocalisation. Call playback, distance, roost and moon phase were used as explanatory variables in an information-theoretic approach using generalised linear models. In phase two, a 65 010-ha survey area was broken into a grid of adjacent hexagons with centroids spaced 5 km apart; replicate surveys using call playback were conducted at each centroid. An occupancy model was used to determine detection probability for the method in the survey area.

Key results. Ghost bats were successfully detected. In phase one, one model had substantial support and this contained only one variable: that of the presence or absence of the ‘squabble’ vocalisation. In phase two, ‘hotspots’ of ghost bat activity were detected in a region for which records were scant and predominantly historical. The occupancy model identified that 72% of sites were occupied and established a detection probability of 0.505, which provided a cumulative probability of 0.75.

Conclusions.Our results show that call playback is a reliable method of detecting the cryptic and threatened ghost bat at a landscape scale in the Northern Territory.

Implications.We suggest that call playback could be used as a standardised survey technique across the range of the ghost bat.

Context. Invasive non-native species are on the rise worldwide, exacerbating already significant environmental and economic impacts. Concurrently, public attitudes towards methods of controlling these species are changing, with greater demand for non-lethal solutions. This has fostered research into developing new, effective technologies and strategies for wildlife management.

Aims. On the basis of a case study focusing on the eastern grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) in the UK, this study aimed to understand the potential for population management, using either live trapping or oral contraception. First, assuming completely coordinated landscape-scale control, and then, coordinated control only on parts of the landscape, accounting for the potential that landowners’ attitudes towards alternative methods may differ and reflect those of the wider public.

Methods. We used an existing spatially explicit individual-based modelling approach applying various parameterisations to define management. We varied the density of traps or hoppers delivering contraceptives, the duration of deployment, contraceptive efficacy, initial population size, and the probability of landowner participation. The latter was based on a previous public survey, suggesting that 40% of the respondents were open to management using trapping and 64% to using contraception.

Key results. With complete coordinated control, trapping was generally faster and more cost-effective than was contraception. However, when differences in social acceptance were considered, reducing participation and, consequently, the spatial coverage of management, contraception was found to maintain greater population reductions than was trapping with similar effort, assuming a contraceptive efficacy of 75% or higher.

Conclusions. This study added another layer of complexity to managing invasive non-native species, namely the potential effect that landowners’ attitudes to different methods of population management might have on the level of coordinated control at landscape scale. In a situation such as the one modelled by this study, where management is not a legal requirement, this human dimension must be considered alongside cost-effectiveness, to develop successful control in line with management goals.

Implications.Further work is required to establish the actual attitudes of landowners, and in different contexts (e.g. urban, rural areas), how this may change as new approaches become available, and then how spatial variation (clustering) in the resulting wildlife population control may affect outcomes.

Context. Australian savannas evolved in the absence of hooved mammals and are therefore prone to disturbance from exotic ungulates. Several ungulate species have established feral populations in Australia’s northern savannas. Because most ungulate species have high water requirements, seasonal and interannual changes in water availability are likely to affect their behaviour and the extent of their impacts on native ecosystems. However, few studies have investigated how water scarcity affects feral ungulate use of waterpoints in Australia.

Aims. The aim of this study was to determine whether seasonal and interannual water scarcity affected the visitation behaviours of feral pigs, cattle and water buffalo at ephemeral savanna waterholes within Limmen National Park, Northern Territory, Australia.

Methods. We used motion-triggered wildlife cameras to study feral ungulate visitation and behaviour at 20 waterholes. Generalised linear mixed-effects models were used to investigate whether the number of visits, duration of visits and number of individuals visiting waterholes varied with year and dry season progression. We also investigated whether these factors affected the amount of time ungulates spent foraging, drinking and wallowing at waterholes.

Key results. All three species visited waterholes more often, for longer periods and in larger numbers during a drought year compared with an average rainfall year. Cattle and buffalo spent more time drinking from waterholes during the drought, and pigs and cattle spent longer periods foraging. Buffalo also wallowed more during the drought. Responses to dry season progression varied among species. Cattle visited waterholes more frequently, for longer durations and in larger herd sizes as the dry season progressed, whereas buffalo use did not change. Pigs only increased their visitation to waterholes when water scarcity was most extreme, at the end of the dry season during the drought.

Conclusions. Our results demonstrate that water scarcity exacerbates feral ungulate use of savanna waterholes. Management and control programs for feral ungulates in Australian savannas may benefit from targeting different species under specific water scarcity conditions.

Implications. Because climate change is predicted to reduce surface water availability in northern Australia, feral ungulate use of savanna waterholes may intensify, risking further biodiversity losses and irreversible ecosystem damage.

Context. Adding an attractant to remote camera traps has become a popular method to increase detections of cryptic carnivores. However, there is ongoing debate about whether this practice can bias the behaviour and activity patterns of these species.

Aims. Our aim was to determine how using a popular attractant at camera traps could affect carnivore detection probabilities and temporal activity.

Methods. We used an experimental design in which we randomly set half of our camera traps on arrays at two sites in western North Carolina with an attractant: canned sardines in oil. Halfway through the survey season, we switched which camera traps had sardines and which did not. We estimated detection probability for each carnivore species observed using occupancy models, and we used kernel density estimations to evaluate changes in diel activity patterns between camera traps with and without an attractant.

Key results. We found that when sardines were used at camera traps, detectability of bobcats (Lynx rufus), coyotes (Canis latrans), northern raccoons (Procyon lotor), Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana), and eastern spotted skunks (Spilogale putorius) more than doubled, but there was little or no effect on striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) detectability. Of the species we most frequently detected (coyotes, raccoons, and opossums), activity patterns between camera traps with and without a sardine attractant overlapped moderately to highly, and a significant effect on diel activity patterns was observed only for raccoons.

Conclusions. Use of attractants can greatly increase the probability of detecting nearly all carnivores at camera traps. The effects of attractants on diel activity patterns are species-specific, with two of our three most-detected species unaffected by their use, suggesting that attractants can be used to effectively study these behaviours in some carnivore species.

Implications. A sardine attractant can increase the detection of many carnivore species, using camera traps, without causing a significant deviation of diel activity patterns, thus allowing for unbiased investigations into most species’ spatio–temporal behaviour in the Appalachian Mountains – and likely other systems.

Context. Agricultural activities have reduced wildlife natural habitats and increased the spatial overlap between animals’ distribution and human activities. However, carnivores with a broad diet and flexible habitat requirements can tolerate human-induced environmental changes. Thus, identifying changes in their densities and spatial distribution are important factors to take into consideration when working towards minimising human–carnivore conflict.

Aims. Our aim was to identify the main environmental and human variables influencing Pampas fox density and to produce density maps in the reproductive and non-reproductive seasons.

Methods. We performed spotlight counts at night, following the line transect method in the non-reproductive and reproductive seasons during two consecutive years. We also obtained landscape, human-impact and environmental spatial variables using remote sensing data and Geographic Information Systems. We modelled and mapped the Pampas fox’s spatial density using Density Surface Models.

Key results. We found that disturbance by human activities and landscape configuration influenced the spatial variation of the Pampas fox density across time and space. We registered a positive association between the number of foxes and the proximity to urban areas and paved roads, and we also found higher densities near grasslands areas and less modified habitats varying with the season and year. A higher density of foxes was observed in the non-reproductive season compared with the reproductive season.

Conclusions and Implications This study provides insight on the variation in Pampas fox densities across agroecosystems. It highlights the relevance of more naturalised and protected habitats to sustain the Pampas fox population in highly fragmented landscapes, but also shows a positive association with disturbed areas. The spatial information developed in this study is useful to identify areas where ecosystem services could be encouraged, helping to maintain the ecosystems’ equilibrium and biodiversity conservation, and develop new management programs creating human–wildlife coexistence.

Fences have been widely used to exclude, manage, or monitor both native and invasive amphibian populations. Given that fences are artificial barriers that impact animal movements within the landscape, it is critical they do not allow for unwanted movement or lead to unintended animal welfare risks. We have carried out a literature review to identify features that have been used for amphibian fences, as well as aspects of fence design, installation, and maintenance that have limited their effectiveness. We also describe our own application of adaptive management to amphibian exclusion fences, in which we detected flaws and improved features, and monitored the effectiveness of these changes. Based on an exploration of the literature and our experiences, we found several key attributes to fences that must be considered when created for amphibians, including height, lip barriers, underground barriers, support frameworks, gates, seams, clearance zones, and moisture refuges. We found that studies commonly do not detail all of these aspects of their fences, and that few openly describe flaws in the design, installation, and subsequent maintenance of their fences. This is potentially concerning because it may limit chances to make improvements to fence designs that are specific for amphibians. We subsequently provide considerations and recommendations for each key fence attribute, along with maintenance and monitoring advice. These take into account intended fence purpose, desired fence permeability, and project constraints for a variety of amphibian types, life histories, and developmental stages. They are intended to be used by managers to assist in designing an effective fence for their target species. Some of our recommendations to reduce animal welfare risks are to minimise the use of: (1) fence materials that could cause abrasion injuries, (2) dry substrates that could lead to desiccation, (3) geofabrics that could lead to entanglement, and (4) fence aprons that animals could easily become trapped under. This is likely to be a valuable guide for practitioners who are required to install amphibian fences and for policy makers who prescribe fences for mitigation. This guide is applicable for projects managing threatened native species, as well as invasive species, such as the cane toad (Rhinella marina).

Context. Livestock predation is a significant problem for livestock producers all over the world. Livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) can protect livestock from predators, but little is known about the factors that affect their use over long periods of time.

Aims. Our aims were to investigate the long-term use of LGDs in Australia and determine whether their effectiveness remained high over time, and to establish the reasons for discontinued use. We also wanted to collect data on the fate of LGDs, and how using LGDs affected the use of other methods for predation control. Last, we wanted to estimate the rate at which the use of LGDs is spreading through word-of-mouth.

Methods. We re-contacted participants from a previous survey of LGD users in Australia and interviewed them about their long-term experience. We were able to include 82% (112) of the original participants, a mean of 8.9 (±0.08) years after the first survey.

Key results. Half of all original participants were still using LGDs, and in most cases the effectiveness of LGDs had not changed since the first survey. The main reason for ceasing use of LGDs was a change in business that made the dogs unnecessary, followed by unwanted behaviour of dogs, and problems with neighbours. Most LGDs that died prior to old age were euthanised, fell victim to lethal predator control, or were killed by wildlife. Farmers with LGDs reduced other forms of predation control. Informal information transfer among farmers is leading to a net increase in the use of LGDs in Australia.

Conclusions. LGDs can remain an effective predator control method in Australia with long-term use, and their use is spreading. However, a substantial number of livestock producers experience difficulties in properly training and managing LGDs, leading to failure of the method in some cases and presumably limiting uptake.

Implications. Given the effectiveness of LGDs for predation management and the many advantages gained by their use, Australia could greatly benefit from programs by government or management agencies both to promote uptake of LGDs and to reduce the incidence of problems by providing farmers with advice and information on best-practice management.

Context. In Nepal, naur are usually the staple wild prey for the snow leopard, a solitary stalker hunter, and in some cases, for the wolf who hunts in a pack. We assumed that naur would adapt their anti-predatory responses to the presence of chasing and ambushing predators in the Manang Valley, where there are snow leopards and wolves, and in the Nar Phu valley, an area where there is only the snow leopard.

Aims. The aim of this study was to determine if there were differences in anti-predator strategies (vigilance, habitat selection and escape terrain) of naur in two valleys over two seasons, spring and autumn.

Methods. In spring 2019, we conducted a reconnaissance survey on the status of the naur and its habitat in the Manang and Nar Phu valleys of the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal. In spring and autumn 2020 and 2021, we observed 360 focal naur individuals (180 individuals in each valley), using the vigilance behaviour methodology to examine the behaviour of the naur.

Key results. There was little difference in the size of the naur groups between the Manang and Nar Phu valleys. The naur were twice as vigilant in Manang (15%), where there are snow leopards and wolves, as they were in Nar Phu (9%), with only snow leopards. The distance from the naur to escape cover was significantly shorter in Manang than in Nar Phu valley. Naur used significantly more rolling terrain in Nar Phu than in Manang.

Conclusions. The return of wolves to the Manang valley may have resulted in an increase in the level of naur vigilance. Most likely, the wolves in Manang have already had an effect on the female-to-young-ratio, and this effect will possibly have important consequences for the naur population, as well as at the ecosystem level in the future. Other key determining factors, such as the climate crisis and changes in local resources, could have a significant impact on the naur population, indicating the need for more research.

Implications. The findings of this study would provide valuable baseline information for the design of a science-based conservation strategy for conservation managers and scientists on naur, snow leopards and wolves.

Context. A comprehensive understanding of movements and space use can underpin the effective management of threatened species. GPS dataloggers can collect large amounts of high-quality movement data, and recent advances in statistical approaches allow for robust estimates of home range size to be generated. Until recently, technological and practical constraints have generally restricted the collection of movement data via GPS dataloggers to larger species. However, reductions in the size and weight of GPS dataloggers now allow for this technology to be applied to smaller species.

Aims. The aim of this study was to describe the home range and movement patterns of a nationally vulnerable, native Australian ground-dwelling mammal, the long-nosed potoroo (Potorous tridactylus), in south-west Victoria, mainland Australia.

Methods. We attached GPS dataloggers to 40 long-nosed potoroos between 2020 and 2022 and estimated home range size using dynamic Brownian Bridge movement models. We evaluated the influence of physiological factors such as body mass and sex on home range size and described patterns of home range overlap between and within sexes.

Key results. Mean home range sizes were estimated to be 13.73 ha (95% CI: 10.9–16.6) and 6.67 ha (95% CI: 5.49–7.85) for males and females respectively. Home range size scaled with body mass in males but not females, and ranges were largely overlapping – although there was some evidence of intrasexual spatial partitioning of core range areas in females.

Conclusions. Ours is the first application of GPS dataloggers to this species, and our home range estimates are over twice as large as other reported estimates for mainland Australia. Long-nosed potoroos may range across larger areas than previously predicted on mainland Australia.

Implications.This knowledge may be used to optimise the management of long-nosed potoroo populations before and after fire – a key threatening process for this species. Our study highlights the value of integrating GPS dataloggers and robust home range estimators when describing the movement ecology of a population.

Context. In south-eastern Australia, the abundance and distribution of non-native sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) has increased dramatically in alpine environments. As a result, significant concern surrounds the potential for the species to impact rare plant species and vegetation communities through browsing.

Aims. We aimed to determine the diversity of the plant species eaten by sambar deer in the Alpine National Park and to understand any spatial and temporal variation in deer diets.

Methods. We collected 90 sambar deer faecal pellet samples over a 3-month flowering period across two contrasting study sites with differing elevation, vegetation and underlying geology. We performed DNA sequencing using the ITS2 gene region and assigned dietary items to the lowest taxonomic level possible. The frequency of occurrence and sequencing read depth of each dietary item was calculated to investigate the diet of sambar deer at spatial and temporal scales, and dietary preferencing was assessed by comparing the frequency of occurrence of dietary items to the observation records for each dietary item in the study area.

Key results. We detected a total of 369 unique plant Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) from sambar deer faecal samples, representing 35 families and 80 genera. Considerable variation in the diet was observed over small spatial scales, and evidence of temporal diet variation was noted in one of the study sites. We detected Silky Snow-daisy (Celmisia sericophylla), which is currently listed as critically endangered under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, and Hawkweed (Pilosella spp.), a highly invasive, non-native taxon that is sparingly established in Alpine ecosystems.

Conclusions. Sambar deer displayed an intermediate feeder behaviour in alpine environments, foraging on a variety of forbs and shrubs, but forbs were the dominant dietary items. The spatial variation observed in the diet of sambar deer suggests that individual deer are unlikely to be dispersing widely while foraging.

Implications. Our results emphasise the need for careful evaluation of sambar deer impacts within individual sites and at small spatial scales. The detection of species of conservation significance in the diet indicates that the presence of sambar deer should be considered a significant risk to biodiversity in areas of high conservation value.

Context. Due to the frequent depredation of eggs and chicks by herring gulls (Larus argentatus), numerous approaches to reduce their impact on tern colonies have been tested by wildlife managers. Previous studies have shown that the use of overhead lines presents a promising method to prevent gull nesting in tern colonies, but little work has evaluated if this approach is suitable for excluding both nesting and non-nesting gulls.

Aims. The goal of this study was to explore the efficacy of a preventative approach, overhead lines, versus a more widely practiced lethal approach, shooting and trapping. Specifically, we aimed to determine if methods differ in their abilities to deter both gull nesting and presence within treatment areas and identify impacts on common tern (Sterna hirundo) nesting within treatment areas.

Methods. We applied separate management strategies to two common tern colonies. In one colony, we removed herring gulls via shooting followed by trapping and nest removal, and in the other colony, we erected overhead lines with subsequent trapping at nests established in the treatment area.

Key results. Gulls appeared to adapt quickly to shooting efforts, limiting efficacy and resulting in no significant change in abundance from pre-treatment levels (P = 0.981). However, gull use of both the colony and surrounding brush declined significantly (P < 0.001) following trapping and nest removal. Meanwhile, the number of gulls in the colony area declined from a pre-treatment average of 56 to only six, following the erection of overhead lines (P < 0.001). Although six gull nests were established within the treatment area (overhead lines), they were not replaced once the parents were trapped and nests destroyed.

Conclusions. Tern nesting appeared to be unaffected by any of the implemented management activities. Our data suggest that overhead lines may present an alternative to lethal control when seeking to minimise the impacts of gulls on tern colonies.

Implications. The data presented in this manuscript can be used to guide managers in selecting actions to reduce conflict between gulls and breeding common terns. By using data-informed practices, managers can select the method best suited for their specific needs and priorities.

Context. Measuring the quality of habitats necessary for the survival of threatened species is a priority for conservation management, but traditional metrics are often too costly to implement. As a result, many practitioners rely on proxies such as habitat suitability, which are measured by relating environmental variables to species occurrence data using habitat suitability models. However, little research has examined how these proxies relate to actual measures of habitat quality, such as body condition.

Aims. By testing the relationship between habitat suitability and habitat quality – as characterised by mean population fitness – the aim of this study was to improve our understanding of ways in which we can reliably map habitat of high importance for a particular species, as well as habitats where populations are most susceptible to local extinction.

Methods. We used data from a large-scale monitoring program on the northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus), a threatened marsupial predator, which collected data on three measures of population mean fitness (measured as body mass accounting for size, tail circumference, and body mass). We correlated these measures with habitat suitability derived from a habitat suitability model.

Key results. We found quoll mean population fitness increased with increasing habitat suitability. In addition, we found mean population fitness increased with increasing topographic ruggedness, annual rainfall, rainfall variability, and decreasing distance to water, consistent with previous studies that suggest quolls are able to persist better in habitat where resource availability (shelter, food) is higher.

Conclusions. Our findings demonstrate the usefulness of habitat suitability models for predicting habitat quality for a threatened predator at a large scale, and that predictions of habitat suitability can correspond with measures of fitness. In addition, they support previous studies in highlighting the importance of topographically complex habitat for this species.

Implications. These findings have important implications for identifying both source populations, where species recruitment is likely to exceed mortality, and more vulnerable populations that may require targeted conservation interventions to ensure their long-term persistence and stability.

Context. Free-roaming dogs are ubiquitous worldwide and pose a threat to wildlife. An understanding of the roaming behaviour of dogs is useful for developing effective management strategies.

Aims. We aimed to assess the activity ranges and patterns of free-roaming dogs in a rural Cambodian village. An adjacent wildlife sanctuary protects populations of threatened species that may be negatively impacted by dogs.

Methods. We used rudimentary hand-made GPS collars to track village dogs and quantify their movements. Activity ranges were calculated for male and female dogs, and the mean distances travelled at night and during the day were determined. Additionally, forays outside of the activity range were characterised.

Key results. We estimated a mean activity range of 178 ± 190 ha and found that dogs typically travelled longer distances at night. Females had significantly smaller activity ranges, as well as covering shorter distances per day. Foray behaviour was variable, with some dogs entering the wildlife sanctuary regularly and others not at all.

Conclusions. Free-roaming Cambodian dog activity overlapped with native mammals in the study site, posing a risk of predation, resource exclusion, harassment and competition of Cambodian species.

Implications. The data suggest that although dogs generally spend the majority of their time within the village, there is significant risk to wildlife. Actions are required to mitigate threats to native wildlife, in particular threatened species such as Eld’s Deer.

Context. The east and west coasts of Australia form the breeding grounds for two of the world’s largest and fastest-growing populations of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae). These populations show differences in mean lipid content, fatty acid profiles, and stable isotope values.

Aims. To determine whether these differences result in variation in nutritional health and physiology between populations, we quantified and compared the morphology, body condition and energetic requirements between the two populations.

Methods. We used unmanned aerial vehicles to measure body morphometrics (residual of body volume vs length) of humpback whales from May to November in 2017, 2020 and 2021.

Key results. Morphometric measurements were obtained from 973 humpback whales (119 calves, 249 juveniles, 486 adults, and 119 lactating females). Results showed that the two populations did not differ significantly in their morphology. The average body condition was significantly different for sexually mature reproductive classes, with adults and lactating females on the west coast having a lower body condition, by an average of 7.7 and 11.1 percentage points below the east coast population respectively. All reproductive classes, with the exception of calves followed a similar pattern in body condition loss through the breeding season. Calves on the east coast exhibited a curvilinear relationship with days post-partum, with early and late-migrating calves being in poorer body condition than were those migrating mid-season. In contrast, west coast calves did not significantly change their condition through the breeding season.

Conclusions. The poorer body condition of sexually mature individuals in the west coast population is concerning, given the overall condition loss during a breeding season. This difference could be influenced by variations in sampling time; however, differences in feeding opportunities, climatic regimes and/or environmental variables may influence the ability of one population to acquire similar amounts of energy.

Implications. The difference in body condition between these two humpback whale populations highlighted the need to assess populations individually, so as to develop representative levels that can be used for future conservation monitoring and management.

Context. Where conservation efforts are undertaken to decrease downward trends in fish populations, comparatively few resources are directed to small-bodied cryptic species. The true extent of the decline of many of these species is therefore often unknown. Where surveys have occurred, they are frequently limited by budget and hence effort. Consequently, there is a risk that rare species may not be physically captured despite their presence at a site. Such an outcome has dire consequences for the conservation of remnant populations of threatened fish. To counter possible false negative detections, environmental DNA is increasingly being used in conjunction with, or as a precursor to, physical surveys. The Southern Purple-spotted Gudgeon (Mogurnda adspersa) is a small, threatened freshwater fish native to Australia. Recent surveys captured M. adspersa in two highly turbid waterbodies in north-central Victoria. This capture represented the first detection of the species in the state in more than 20 years. Because these waterbodies are part of a network of hydrologically connected systems, it was suspected that the species likely had a broader distribution in the region.

Aims. To develop a probe-based eDNA assay for M. adspersa and compare its sensitivity against a physical sampling program.

Methods. Detection (presence/absence) between eDNA and traditional surveys was compared across multiple sites.

Key results. eDNA presents an effective tool for determining the presence of M. adspersa. The eDNA survey demonstrated significant clustering of eDNA detections towards the outlets of lakes sampled, suggesting concentrated eDNA at this point, or that, due to the channels being shallower, the eDNA of resident individuals may be less diluted.

Conclusions. Based on these results, future survey of rare, cryptic species in highly turbid lake systems should in the first instance include a broad scale eDNA survey, with sampling concentrated at outlet channels.

Implications. The likely most cost-effective approach to determining the presence/absence of rare species in lake systems is the collection of eDNA samples at outlet channels.

Context. Deer species are expanding in distribution and abundance in Australia. There is increasing focus on the ecology of these species, but effective deer capture methods are needed for telemetry studies.

Aims. The aims of this study were to develop, assess and refine a helicopter-based capture technique for wild sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) and red deer (Cervus elaphus), based on trials in south-eastern Australia.

Methods. We captured and collared 14 sambar deer and five red deer in two operations in Kosciuszko National Park in 2021, using a combination of aerial net gunning and chemical immobilisation delivered via hand injection. Captured animals were fitted with GPS collars to track their movements and activity post-capture. Physiological measurements were recorded as a means of assessing responses to capture and to optimise animal welfare outcomes.

Key results. Twenty-two deer were pursued and captured, with a total mortality rate of 14% (n = 3). The frequency of mortalities decreased from the first operation (17%) to the second operation (10%), largely attributed to allowable helicopter pursuit times being reduced. Post-release movement data indicated that delayed mortality due to capture did not occur. Activity of collared deer was lowest immediately following collaring, suggesting the procedure caused short-term decreases in deer activity.

Conclusions. Aerial capture of wild sambar deer and red deer poses animal welfare risks, but these can be minimised through the refinement in net gunning and pharmacological procedures to minimise animal stress.

Implications. This study describes an effective method for the safe capture of sambar deer and red deer, which will assist future wildlife researchers to further refine helicopter-based capture protocols and to collect spatial ecology and survival information about these species.

Context. Invasive mammalian predators are a threat to biodiversity and agriculture globally, yet management outcomes for lethal predator control remain difficult to monitor and evaluate. Understanding whether changes in activity indices correspond to true changes in population density will help inform effective monitoring and management programs.

Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of poison baiting on invasive red fox (Vulpes vulpes) populations using two alternative population metrics: fox activity from camera trap surveys and density estimation from scat genetic analysis.

Methods. We conducted before–after control–impact studies in two regions of semi-arid Australia (Wimmera and Mallee) by monitoring paired non-treatment and treatment sites during unbaited and baited periods. We estimated the effects of poison baiting on: (1) a monthly fox activity index, derived from an array of 10 off-road camera traps per site; and (2) fox density. To estimate density, we collected fox scats along 14-km transects, identified individuals using polymorphic microsatellite DNA markers and fitted spatially explicit capture–recapture models.

Key results. Fox activity remained consistently low at all sites except the Mallee non-treatment. The top-ranked models of fox activity and density contained an interaction between treatment and period, with an interactive and additive effect of region, respectively. However, there was little evidence that baiting reduced fox activity or density. In the unbaited period, fox densities ranged from 0.69 (95% CI: 0.47–1.0) to 1.06 (95% CI: 0.74–1.51) foxes km⁻² and were similar across regions.

Conclusions. Camera traps have the potential to provide continuous index-based measures of fox populations but may not record sufficient observations to detect change. Indices can also be confounded by variations in animal behaviour. Scat genetic analysis is a viable option for providing direct estimates of population change at specific snapshots in time; however, this approach is considerably more expensive, and large sample sizes may be required if genotyping success is low.

Implications. Our study presents a rare example of multiple concurrent – and non-invasive – monitoring techniques to evaluate the effectiveness of predator control. We highlight the value of rigorous study designs and high-quality density information for designing predator management and monitoring programs.

Context. Habitat loss and fragmentation are leading causes of biodiversity decline worldwide. In Australia, woodland habitat has been extensively cleared and fragmented yet there has been limited research on the effects of habitat loss and fragmentation on semi-arid reptiles, impeding conservation planning and recovery efforts.

Aims. We aimed to investigate factors influencing the distribution and occurrence of habitat specialist and generalist reptile species on a large agricultural holding in south-eastern Australia that has experienced habitat loss and fragmentation.

Methods. Reptiles were surveyed using pitfall and funnel traps and active searches across 20 sites stratified by land use and vegetation type. Twelve sites were established in remnant woodland patches embedded within an agricultural matrix and eight sites were established in a private conservation reserve on the same property. Generalised linear models were used to explore relationships between the occurrence of eight reptile species and predictor variables describing site, landscape and vegetation variables.

Key results. Of the 31 reptile species that were detected, eight were modelled. The results revealed that four specialist species, the eastern mallee dragon (Ctenophorus spinodomus), nobbi dragon (Diporiphora nobbi), barred wedge-snouted ctenotus (Ctenotus schomburgkii) and shrubland pale-flecked morethia (Morethia obscura), were closely associated with the conservation reserve, and that the southern spinifex ctenotus (Ctenotus atlas) had a strong association with spinifex (Triodia scariosa) dominated vegetation community.

Conclusions. Reptile habitat specialists are particularly sensitive to habitat loss and fragmentation and are at a higher risk of local extinction compared with habitat generalists. Reptile occurrence was reduced in remnant woodland patches, but remnant patches also supported a suite of habitat generalists.

Implications. A suite of semi-arid reptile species are sensitive to the effects of habitat loss and fragmentation and are susceptible to localised extinction. However, the presence of habitat generalists within woodland remnants highlights the value of retaining representative habitat patches in agricultural landscapes. Conservation of semi-arid woodland reptiles will depend on the retention of large tracts of protected vegetation across a broad range of soil types to maintain habitat heterogeneity and reptile diversity.

Context. Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) are a species of social, economic and cultural importance that are experiencing a population decline throughout much of their range. Factors such as disease, landscape-level changes in nutritional output of forage species, winter habitat degradation, habitat fragmentation, competition for resources with both domestic and wild ungulates, and predation have all been implicated in the decline. Recently, summer habitat quality in Oregon has been identified as a potentially strong limiting factor for mule deer population performance. Competition and habitat degradation from feral horses (Equus caballus) have been proposed as factors potentially exacerbating existing habitat limitations for mule deer.

Aims. The aim of this study was to investigate factors affecting mule deer summer range occupancy within a study area that experienced both wildfires and the presence of feral horses.

Methods. We deployed 72, 77 and 75 camera traps throughout the Murderers Creek and Northside wildlife management units located in north-eastern Oregon during summer 2019, 2020 and 2021 respectively. We used an occupancy modelling framework to build and evaluate models of mule deer summer range occupancy related to competition, vegetation and abiotic variables.

Key results. Our final model set included four covariates: (1) an index of feral horse use; (2) whether the site was disturbed by wildfire; (3) distance to forest edge; and (4) eastness of the site. Model averaging indicated that mule deer probability of occupancy was negatively related with increased feral horse use and distance to forest edge, and positively related to eastern slopes and sites within a wildfire perimeter.

Conclusions. Our results add to the growing body of literature indicating that wildfires in forested ecosystems benefit mule deer and add to the limited body of literature indicating that feral horse use of a site negatively impacts mule deer.

Implications. Managers should incorporate fire into forest restoration projects when possible to benefit mule deer. Where feral horses and mule deer overlap, increased management of feral horse herds could potentially benefit mule deer. Lastly, our research showcases the utility of camera traps coupled with occupancy modelling to answer research questions that, in the past, were mainly answered through radio collaring.

Context. Among amphibians and reptiles, traditional methods of capture–mark–recapture (CMR) have relied on artificial marking techniques (in particular, toe clipping), which has raised concerns because it may impact climbing ability, survival, and behaviour. A potential alternative involves the exploitation of natural biometric identifiers that are already present, including scale configuration or colour patterns. These natural markers can be applied in photo-based CMR, which has several advantages over artificial markers, including reduced costs, the reduction of harm or stress, and the potential for public participation in conservation and research.

Aims. Our aim was to test the feasibility of applying citizen science in the manual visual identification of the endangered Monaro grassland earless dragon (Tympanocryptis osbornei) using dorsal pattern as a natural marker.

Methods. We collected photographs of dorsal patterns of wild T. osbornei individuals using a smartphone device under field conditions. We subsequently recruited participants anonymously from the public using social media to complete an online survey, in which they were asked to correctly match these field-captured images of individuals from small image pools, mimicking the process of detecting recapture events.

Key results. Participants were able to successfully detect recapture events from small image pools based solely on a comparison of dorsal patterns. High consensus was reached on all matches included in the online survey, with the majority vote among participants representing the correct matching of individuals on all occasions.

Conclusions. Our results indicate that there is sufficient intra-specific variability and temporal stability in dorsal patterning for it to be used as a reliable natural marker for identifying T. osbornei at the individual level.

Implications. Our findings suggest that photo-CMR could be applied to other agamids with similar dorsal patterns, making it a potentially valuable tool and an alternative to artificial marking for monitoring wild populations of Australian lizards in the future.

Context. Efficient monitoring of herpetofauna can prove challenging to agencies and NGOs responsible for their management. Wildlife cameras have been proposed as a method to monitor herpetofauna; however, estimates of detection rates and factors affecting detection by cameras are generally lacking and therefore limiting their application.

Aims. We determined the effect of body size and temperature differential on the detection of snakes and frogs by passive infrared (PIR) wildlife cameras. We hypothesised that detection would differ among models and be positively correlated with body size and surface-temperature differential between the animal and substrate. We then conducted a field study to compare the detection of herpetofauna by a traditional method with PIR cameras.

Methods. We tested 10 cameras of seven models on five snakes and one camera on six frogs. Photographs were downloaded to determine the detection rate of each species by each camera. We then chose a camera model to compare two herpetofauna survey methods, namely, drift fences equipped with cameras and visual-encounter surveys. Surveys were conducted monthly over 12 months in Irwin County, GA, USA.

Key results. The highest mean detection rates of snakes were 0.65 (s.e. = 0.33), 0.50 (s.e. = 0.34), and 0.49 (s.e. = 0.34) for the Browning Dark Ops, Reconyx Hyperfire 2, and Mossy Oak Covert Scouting Camera respectively. The detectability of larger snakes was greater than that of smaller snakes and increased as the absolute temperature differences between the snake and the substrate increased. The detectability of frogs was influenced by absolute temperature differential alone. PIR cameras generated five times more observations, documented more herpetofauna species, and were seven times more efficient than traditional surveys.

Conclusions. The effectiveness of PIR cameras to detect herpetofauna varies among models and depends on the likelihood that the animal will have a body temperature significantly different from the temperature of the substrate. PIR cameras generated observations far more efficiently than traditional sampling methods.

Implications.PIR wildlife cameras may be most effective at detecting larger, diurnal herpetofauna and least effective at detecting smaller, nocturnal species. Wildlife cameras have the potential to efficiently monitor some herpetofauna, providing a means to better evaluate management objectives.

Context. Increased populations of wild boar (Sus scrofa) in many ecosystems have raised concern regarding the impacts of this species on ecosystems and biodiversity. The relationship between other wildlife and wild boars is not yet fully understood, due to a lack of studies on whether and how other wildlife avoid wild boar interference.

Aims. This study aimed to investigate the impact of wild boars on the temporal resource utilisation of silver pheasants (Lophura nycthemera).

Methods. Eighteen infrared camera stations were deployed during the survey period of May 2020 to April 2022. We utilised avoidance–attraction ratios for evaluating the temporal interaction between silver pheasants and wild boars. We also used a kernel density for measuring their daily activity patterns and interspecific overlap. We simultaneously analysed the impact of human activities on silver pheasants as the reference basis for evaluating the degree of interference by wild boars.

Key results. The total survey effort was 1620 camera days, resulting in a total of 3451 independent detections. The silver pheasants showcased avoidance of both wild boars and human activities (avoidance–attraction ratios were both significantly greater than 1; P < 0.05). The highest degree of temporal overlap was observed between silver pheasants and human activities (Δ = 0.711), followed by wild boars (Δ = 0.615). They both depicted a significant difference in temporal ecological niche differentiation (P < 0.05).

Conclusions. Our results indicated that wild boars had a significant impact on the temporal resource utilisation of silver pheasants. The presence of wild boars significantly prolonged the recurrent reappearance time of silver pheasants in the same location. To avoid potential interference from wild boars, silver pheasants maximised activity frequencies during low activity periods of wild boars.

Implications. This study provides useful information for understanding the relationship between wild boars and other wildlife that inhabited the same areas. Future research will need to investigate both individual and combined impacts of wild boars and human activities on other wildlife.

Context. Wildlife trade is a prominent pathway for invasive species introductions into novel environments. Deliberate or accidental release of exotic pets can result in the establishment of alien populations, with damaging impacts for native species and environmental assets. This process is well documented for reptiles globally and is of considerable biosecurity concern in Australia. Boa constrictor is one species at high risk of establishment in Australia, and has insufficient biosecurity detection and post-border control capacity.

Aims. We aimed to develop rapid DNA-based presumptive testing capacity for detecting B. constrictor, with appropriate sensitivity and specificity to operate in a trace DNA biosecurity context.

Methods. Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) is an emerging biosecurity tool that provides highly specific, sensitive, low-resource methods for detection of trace DNA in the absence of physical evidence. We developed colourimetric and fluorescent LAMP assays targeting the mitochondrial DNA control region of B. constrictor. We tested and validated these assays against synthetic DNA fragments, as well as DNA extracted from: (1) vouchered museum B. constrictor tissue; (2) shed B. constrictor skin samples; (3) a range of non-target species to test specificity; and (4) trace DNA recovered from glass tanks post B. constrictor presence.

Key results. We successfully detected synthetic target DNA down to 1 fg and genomic B. constrictor DNA from tissue and shed skins down to <10 pg in under 30 minutes with our fluorescence-based LAMP assay. Additionally, we were able to detect B. constrictor trace DNA following 24 h of presence utilising a traditional laboratory-based DNA extraction method (approximately 180 min) and a rapid lysis step (approximately 8 min).

Conclusions. Both colourimetric and fluorescent assays show promise for the specific detection of B. constrictor in biosecurity contexts, including post-border enforcement and compliance checks in the domestic illicit wildlife trade.

Implications. Our findings greatly strengthen the ongoing development of biosecurity tools for trace DNA detection of commonly traded and trafficked species (i.e. reptiles) in wildlife enforcement contexts, advancing both preparedness and surveillance.

Context. Wildlife emergencies (e.g. injured animals) often require capture or humane dispatch of animals to resolve the situation. Conducted electrical weapons (CEWs) have the potential to immobilise white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) for a short duration to avoid potential risks of extended immobilisation (e.g. chemical immobilisation) and increase safety for managers and the public during humane killing by gunshot.

Aims. To test rapid immobilisation with minimal long-term physiological consequences of CEW immobilisation of white-tailed deer.

Methods. We arranged five treatment groups of captive deer, including (1) chemical immobilisation with 5-s CEW exposure (n = 5), (2) chemical immobilisation with 15-s CEW exposure (n = 5), (3) 5-s CEW exposure with no chemical immobilisation (n = 10), (4) 15-s CEW exposure with no chemical immobilisation (n = 10) and (5) a control group with no chemical immobilisation or CEW exposure (n = 10). We conducted treatments 1 and 2 to determine short-term physiological effects of CEWs on deer, related to overall welfare. In treatment groups 1 and 2, we sedated deer to collect blood immediately before CEW exposure, and 2 days and 5 days post-exposure for serum biochemical analysis (to measure physiological markers of organ and tissue damage). We observed deer before, during and after treatments to evaluate potential behavioural changes.

Key results. All deer showed signs of muscle paralysis immediately after exposure to CEW and regained muscle control immediately after the exposure ended. Serum biochemistry results for treatment group 1 and 2 revealed significant increases in creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) 2 days post-treatment, before returning to pre-exposure concentrations by day 5-post-exposure, suggesting temporary myopathy. By 15-days post-exposure, deer that were only exposed to the CEW had 27 of 39 (69%) remotely fired probes still attached. No long-term behavioural or physiological changes were observed post-treatment.

Conclusions. Our findings suggest that for immobilisation of white-tailed deer, short-term exposure to a CEW to is a potential alternative to typical capture techniques and can provide sufficient immobilisation to approach and humanely kill deer by gunshot if necessary in wildlife emergencies.

Implications.As with all capture techniques, trainings and protocols should be developed to ensure the safety of personnel and animals during CEW exposures.

Context. Chlamydia species impose major global burdens on both human and animal health. However, chlamydial infections of wild rodents have been understudied, posing limitations on assessments of disease risks for rodent conservation translocations. This is particularly true when there is evidence of infection in proposed source populations, as occurred for the Shark Bay mouse (Pseudomys gouldii) translocations to Dirk Hartog Island.

Aims. The aim of this study was to reduce uncertainty surrounding the risks posed by Chlamydia for these translocations by: (1) determining the presence, prevalence and diversity of Chlamydia in rodent populations in the Shark Bay region of Western Australia; (2) identifying associations with health parameters; and (3) assessing for evidence of cross-species transmission.

Methods. Swab, faecal and tissue samples from 110 wild-caught individuals (comprising five rodent and two marsupial species) were collected across four islands in Western Australia. These samples were analysed by a Chlamydiaceae 23s rRNA qPCR in a 14-month cross-sectional study conducted between 2020 and 2021.

Key results.In total, 20% of all individuals (22/110; 95%CI 13.6–28.4) from five species, including 19% (19/100; 95% CI 12.5–27.8) of rodents, were positive by the Chlamydiaceae qPCR, although in low loads. Further attempts at species identification of the Chlamydiaceae were unsuccessful. Our results found no detectable adverse health associations, or significant associated pathological findings, with low molecular loads supporting an asymptomatic infection state. Additionally, there were no disease associations in Shark Bay bandicoots (Perameles bougainville) despite the presence of an ocular disease syndrome previously linked to chlamydial infection in this species.

Conclusions and implications Our findings suggest that sub-clinical chlamydial infections in wild Australian rodents may be widespread, but for the Dirk Hartog Island translocations, the risks of Chlamydia associated with movement of Shark Bay mice are likely low. The results highlight how current knowledge gaps pertaining to wildlife health can be addressed through collaborative approaches to translocation planning and implementation.

Small mammalian predators can have low population densities, as well as cryptic and highly mobile behaviours, making these species challenging to manage. Monitoring tools such as camera traps, hair traps and footprint tracking devices can help detect cryptic species, but they require an animal to approach and, in most cases, interact with a device. They also have limited capacity to help capture animals. Wildlife-detection dogs can detect a wide range of species with a similar or higher efficiency than do other methods, partly because they are much less dependent on volitional decisions of target animals to interact with devices. By following scent trails, dogs can track down animals that actively avoid capture or detection. Dog-handler teams also have another advantage, namely, the handler can mount a rapid management response to capture or remove animals as soon as they are detected. We review ways in which dog-handler teams can contribute to active management of small mammalian predators by combining the dogs’ ability to detect animals with their handlers’ ability to mount a rapid response.

Context. Elevated mesopredator populations can pose a threat to species of conservation concern.

Aims. We sought to evaluate the effectiveness of raccoon removal on their abundance and on Blanding’s turtle nest success.

Methods. We used an index of raccoon abundance generated from camera-trap data and information on the success of Blanding’s turtle nests to compare adjacent control and raccoon-removal sites.

Key results. Raccoon detections were more frequent and abundance index values were higher at control sites than at the removal site. However, Blanding’s turtle nest success did not differ between control and removal sites, likely because of differences in nest location and camera proximity.

Conclusions. The efficacy of raccoon removal for Blanding’s turtle conservation may vary with nest habitat characteristics and can benefit from a priori knowledge of nesting areas.

Implications. Mesopredator removal can be beneficial to species of conservation concern, provided it occurs in areas of greatest impact.

Context. The distribution of the threatened greater bilby (Macrotis lagotis) has significantly contracted since the introduction of feral cats and foxes. To counteract these threats, bilbies have been reintroduced to multiple feral predator exclosures and offshore islands across Australia.

Aims. The aims of this study were to monitor the reintroduction of bilbies to the feral predator exclosure at Currawinya National Park and assess three hypotheses: (1) captive-born founders would establish stable home ranges and utilise habitats similar to those of wild-born bilbies in the exclosure; (2) founders would maintain adequate body condition and weight, enabling the survival of >50% of founders at 12 months post-release; and (3) the population would rapidly increase in the absence of feral predators, due to the high reproductive potential of bilbies.

Methods. We used VHF/GPS telemetry to compare home range size and habitat use of 12 founders and 11 wild-born bilbies. Founders were monitored intensively to assess reproductive success, weight, body condition and survival. Pouch activity was monitored to examine reproductive output. Spatially explicit capture–recapture modelling was used to estimate population density/size.

Key results. The population rapidly increased to >450 bilbies after 3 years, and founder survivorship was high (70% at 12 months post-release). Male founder home ranges (248.46 ha ± 97.22) were comparable in size to wild-born males (216.74 ha ± 54.19), but female founder home ranges (51.23 ha ± 12.22) were significantly larger than wild-born females (20.80 ha ± 2.94) (P = 0.04). The doubling of the population between 2021 and 2022 may have resulted in the contraction of female home ranges. Reproductive output decreased significantly in 2022, indicating that reproduction may be density-dependent at high densities. There was a significant relationship between track counts and population estimates, indicating that track counts are a reliable method for estimating population size inside the exclosure.

Conclusions. This reintroduction has been highly successful to date, demonstrating that bilbies are an adaptable species capable of rapid population growth in the absence of feral predators.

Implications. Bilbies are a model species for reintroductions to feral predator exclosures due to high survival rates, reproductive output, dietary flexibility and the ability to utilise a broad range of environments.

The economic and environmental impacts of wildlife are increasing in parallel with renewed public interest in non-lethal methods, such as fertility control, to manage these impacts. The Wildlife Research 2008 Special Issue on Fertility Control for Wildlife (Vol. 35) published following the 6th International Conference on Fertility Control for Wildlife held in 2007 in York, United Kingdom, reported studies on the effects of contraceptives on individual animals and populations, with most papers focusing on ungulates. In the past 15 years, significant progress has been made in developing novel contraceptives for wildlife and in designing methods to deliver these agents. Concurrently, the general debate on wildlife management has widened to include public attitudes and perceptions of novel and traditional methods, animal welfare issues, costs, feasibility, and regulatory and ethical issues. These developments have broadened our understanding of contexts and species for which fertility control could be employed, either as a stand-alone method or to complement other population management options. These topics were reflected in the presentations given at the 9th International Conference on Wildlife Fertility Control, held in Colorado Springs (USA) in 2022. Here, we introduce a special issue featuring selected presentations from the 2022 conference. These studies showcase the wide spectrum of topics that covered novel contraceptives tested on several species, ranging from mice to elephants. They also illustrate new methods to deliver contraceptives, models on the impact of fertility control on populations, feasibility, cost of practical applications of fertility control, discussions on animal welfare and human dimension of these approaches.