Journal article
Experimental rock outcrops reveal continuing habitat disturbance for an endangered Australian snake
Conservation Biology, Vol.14(6), pp.1908-1912
2000
Metrics
35 Record Views
Abstract
<p>Protected areas are commonly viewed as safe havens for endangered species. To test this notion, we experimentally constructed small rock outcrops for the endangered broad-headed snake (<em>Hoplocephalus bungaroides</em>) within a national park near Sydney, Australia. Rock outcrops provide vital shelter sites during the cooler months of the year. Constructed rock outcrops (3 × 5 m) were placed at 11 paired sites located near (≤250 m) and far from (>400 m) walking tracks and roads. Eight of our 22 rock outcrops were disturbed by people over a 15-month period. Disturbance consisted of displacement of some rocks or complete destruction of the outcrop. Disturbed outcrops occurred up to 450 m from a walking track or road. Disturbance to natural outcrops has also been observed in this park. This demonstrates a continuing decline in the quality of this snake's habitat. Twenty of our rock outcrops were colonized by velvet geckos (<em>Oedura lesueurii</em>), the primary prey of this snake. One broad-headed snake was found in one outcrop. According to these findings, attempts to restore the habitat of this endangered snake should be centered on sites located ≥500 m from a walking track or road. Our study highlights the value of targeted experiments that precede larger-scale habitat restoration.</p>
Details
- Title
- Experimental rock outcrops reveal continuing habitat disturbance for an endangered Australian snake
- Creators
- Ross L Goldingay - Southern Cross UniversityDavid A Newell - Southern Cross University
- Publication Details
- Conservation Biology, Vol.14(6), pp.1908-1912
- Identifiers
- 2098; 991012820645202368
- Academic Unit
- School of Environment, Science and Engineering; Forest Research Centre; Science; Faculty of Science and Engineering
- Resource Type
- Journal article