The results of the survey did not detect the presence of Ghost bats in the tunnel. Ghost bats are very distinctive in flight and can be distinguished from other bats by their pale colour and large size. The three team members observed the presence of other bats in the tunnel however did not observe ghost bats. Some deviations against the targeted species survey guidelines were recorded as follows: ∕ An acoustic detection device was not required as the tunnel is confined and provides excellent observation opportunities; and ∕ The survey effort guide contained in the survey guideline pertains to open environments and is not specific to a linear feature such as a tunnel. Therefore, adhering to the trapping method and estimated number of hours and nights to conduct the surveys, per number of hectares, could not be adhered to. In total, 19.95 ha of potential habitat for the ghost bat is present within the project area. Habitat within the project area has been described as a mixture of remnant and non-remnant vegetation. During investigation of the Project area’s history, the majority of the potentially suitable habitat that was identified within the project area was found to occur within a historically highly disturbed area. Dumping of mine waste by previous site operators has resulted in land contamination across most of the Mount Morgan Mine. Contaminated runoff and seepage from existing mine infrastructure are actively contributing to land contamination. Prior to mining activities occurring at the Mount Morgan Mine, the headwater of the Mundic Gully flowed north to south before flowing in an easterly direction towards the Dee River. What should be the headwater of the Upper Mundic Creek is now an ephemeral waterbody at the lowest topographical point of the Upper Mundic Gully that drains through a stormwater diversion tunnel into Dam 8 located to the northeast, and as such less water is likely available within the project area compared to prior to disturbance. Several invasive flora species, including lantana, are present within the species’ potential habitat. These pose a threat to the species by degrading potential foraging habitat, as they can change the local floristic characteristics of vegetation, impacting resource availability. Due to the degraded nature of the project area, this habitat is likely less preferable than intact habitat in the surrounding region. Therefore, the Project is not anticipated to result in a significant impact on the ghost bat. Table 55. SRI assessment - ghost bat ( Macroderma gigas )
Significant Residual Impact criteria
Assessment
Lead to a long-term
Ecological surveys did not identify any potential breeding or denning habitat within the project area. Whilst there is the potential for the project area to be used by ghost bats for foraging and/or dispersal, it is unlikely a population will occur within the project area that could be impacted. Additionally, to mitigate potential impacts to individuals, pre- clearance surveys will be conducted, with all activities supervised by qualified fauna spotter-catchers. As such, the project is considered unlikely to lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population of the species. Ecological surveys did not identify any potential breeding or denning habitat within the project area. Whilst there is the potential for the project area to be used by ghost bats for foraging and/or dispersal, it is unlikely a population will occur within the project area that could be impacted. As such, the Project is considered unlikely to reduce the area of occupancy of a population.
Unlikely
decrease in the size of a local population of the species;
Reduce the extent of occurrence of the species;
Unlikely
Project number: 25B061
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