Distribution and abundance of two species of kangaroo in remnants of native vegetation in the central wheatbelt of Western Australia and the role of native vegetation along road verges and fencelines as linkages

The remnant patches of native vegetation and linear strips of native vegetation along roads (road verges) and fencelines in a 1,680 km2 area of the central wheatbelt of Western Australia were surveyed for use by two species of kangaroos. Use was assessed from faecal pellet densities. Kangaroo species were identified from pellet shape. Movements across farmland and along road verges and fencelines were obtained by observation and from interviewing farmers. The faecal densities in remnant patches were converted to estimates of kangaroo numbers per year using each patch. These figures showed that the annual carrying capacity of many remnant patches was less than one kangaroo; for many others, carrying capacity was limited to only a few individuals. Long-term survival of kangaroos in this situation depends on a sub- population utilizing several remnant patches. Some projections of sub-populations and territorial boundaries are made, based on distances animals are projected to move between remnant patches. Until the boundaries of sub-population ranges can be predicted, the conservation status of the two species in the area cannot be determined. However, it seems that linear strips of native vegetation have only a small role to play in sustaining regular movements of individuals between remnant patches.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/isbn/0949324353
• Authors:
  • Arnold, G W
  • Weeldenburg, J R
  • Steven, D E
• Conference:
  • Nature Conservation 2: The Role of Corridors, Conference/Workshop, 1989, Busselton, Western Australia
• Publication Date: 1991

Language

• English

Media Info

• Pagination: 273-80

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Animals; Data collection; Environment; Roadside; Vegetation
• ATRI Terms: Animal; Data collection; Environment; Roadside; Vegetation
• Subject Areas: Environment; Highways;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01432963
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: ARRB
• ISBN: 0949324353
• Files: ATRI
• Created Date: Aug 24 2012 5:19PM