Plate 3-5
L: Copper-tailed skink (Ctenotus taeniolatus). R: Little shrike-thrush (Colluricincla megarhyncha)
3.4.5.2
Introduced fauna
The WildNet database search indicate no fauna pest species have been previously recorded within the desktop survey extent (Appendix A). However, four species of introduced fauna were confirmed present within the survey area during the field survey (either by observation or evidence of recent activity) or captured on remote cameras. These included: – Wild dog ( Canis familiaris ) - category 3, 4 and 6 restricted invasive animal under the Biosecurity Act – Cane toad ( Rhinella marina ) – not listed as restricted or prohibited matter – Black rat ( Rattus rattus ) – not listed as restricted or prohibited matter – Feral pigs ( Sus scrofa ) – category 3, 4 and 6 restricted invasive animal under the Biosecurity Act.
Black rat was recorded on the remote cameras around Upper Mundic Gully (Plate 3-6).
Plate 3-6
L: Black rat (Rattus rattus) observed within project area
Evidence of wild dogs or dingos were observed near the access track in the northern extent of the project area (including scat), with dog tracks observed in one location (Plate 3-7). Dingos are distributed across approximately 85% of Australia (Allen and West, 2013) and inhabit almost all peri-urban areas within their extended range (Allen et al., 2016). However, more recent genetic studies have shown that dingo DNA in northern, western and central Australia is largely without domestic dog genes and there are many occurrences of distinct pure-bred dingoes (Cairns et al., 2021). Without genetic testing of this population within the project area, the difference remains unknown. Regardless, dingos play an important ecosystem role. Cane toads were also recorded around Upper Mundic Gully and are likely present in high numbers, consistent with most of Queensland. Feral pig diggings were observed across the survey area, with frequent pig disturbance
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