Towers J Fauna Study for Bonogin Conservation Reserves Gold Coast QLD

SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENT, SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING
An evaluation of the City of Gold Coast draft
management plan for the Bonogin Conservation
Reserves using fauna as bio-indicators
JASON TOWERS
2015
This report has been prepared by an undergraduate student and may not have been
corrected according to the comments of University staff. The report should be cited in
the following format:
Towers, J. 2015. An evaluation of the City of Gold Coast draft management plan for
the Bonogin Conservation Reserves using fauna as bio-indicators. Unpublished Third
Year Undergraduate Report. School of Environmental Science and Management,
Southern Cross University, Lismore.

An evaluation of the City of Gold Coast draft
management plan for the Bonogin Conservation
Reserves using fauna as bio-indicators
Prepared by Jason Towers
Integrated Project prepared as partial fulfilment of the requirements
of the Bachelor of Environmental Science
Southern Cross University
2015
Davenport Park entrance to Bonogin Conservation Area. Photograph J. Towers 2015.

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Copyright declaration
I, Jason Towers, consent to this report being made available for photocopying and loan,
provided that my work is fully acknowledged and that the granting of such a licence in no
way inhibits me from exercising any of my exclusive rights under the Copyright Act 1968. I
understand this licence is granted in the interests of education and research and that no
royalties are payable.
Jason Towers, 28th September 2015
______________________________

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Acknowledgements
I would like to thank Dr Ross Goldingay for supervising this project and offering his expert
advice, use of equipment and knowledge for the preparation of this report. I would also like
to thank Craig Taylor for his instruction on use of the infrared cameras.
I would like to thank Naomi Christian, Tim Robson and Wayne Abbot from the Natural
Areas Management Unit, City of Gold Coast for their assistance with obtaining permits for
park use and providing valuable information about fauna, feral animal control and
conservation within the reserves.
I would like to also thank Todd Burrows from Environment and planning, City planning
branch, Environment unit for his assistance in bird identification and Georgia Schleehauf,
Sonia Marsanic and Jessica Lyne from Griffith University Gold Coast for their assistance
with surveying.

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Abstract
This study examines the complexity of conservation areas within urban environments in the
City of Gold Coast Local Government Area and how they are managed to protect and
preserve flora and fauna communities within them. It is imperative that regular evaluation of
management aims and objectives for conservation reserves is conducted and one of the best
ways to do this is to periodically monitor fauna activity within them. Fauna can be used as
bio-indicators to evaluate the condition and functionality of these reserves.
The Bonogin Conservation Reserves cluster, nested in the Gold Coast hinterland, forms the
basis for this study, with three of the largest reserves within the cluster of 43 investigated.
Desktop surveys for fauna that have previously been recorded in the area were conducted
initially and those data were then used to compare with data from field surveys in this study
in the evaluation process of the management plan. Field survey methods included
spotlighting, infrared cameras and bird surveys. The objective was to observe as many
species as possible in the field and record any new species which have not been formerly
documented.
The magpie lark (Grallina cyanoleuca), brown thornbill (Acanthiza pusilla), rainbow lorikeet
(Trichoglossus moluccanus) and red-browed finch (Neochmia temporalis) were found to be
the most abundant bird species. These four species have all been previously recorded in the
reserves. The northern mountain brush tail possum (northern mountain BT) (Trichosurus
caninus), black rat (Rattus rattus), swamp wallaby (Wallabia bicolor) and red-necked
wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus) recorded the most trigger events for mammals during the
camera survey. The northern mountain BT, swamp wallaby and red-necked wallaby have
been recorded in the reserves but not since 2007 and no record of the black rat has been found
from literature reviews. A total of 32 birds, 12 mammals and 2 amphibians were recorded
using all survey methods. These results suggest that species diversity is comparable to what is
documented for birds, however, four of the mammals observed were non-native and this
could be an indication that there is a lack of diversity of endemic species. Predation by feral
animals, shortage of suitable habitat, fragmentation from urban development and reduced
wildlife corridors which link the reserves are all factors contributing to a possible reduction in
biodiversity. It is recommended that periodic fauna surveys be conducted in the planning area
and any new species recorded should become part of the baseline data for future reference.
Management objectives for the reserves should be revised to reflect these data from this
survey and periodically revised to reflect new data from future surveys.
Key words
Bio-indicators, planning area, reserves, cluster, corridors, conservation.

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Table of contents
Acknowledgements ............................................................................................................2
Abstract...............................................................................................................................3
Key words ...........................................................................................................................3
Table of contents ................................................................................................................4
List of figures......................................................................................................................5
List of tables........................................................................................................................6
1. Introduction....................................................................................................................7
2. Background ....................................................................................................................8
2.1 Urban development......................................................................................................8
2.2 Invasive species................................................................................................9
2.2.1 Flora........................................................................................................9
2.2.2 Fauna.......................................................................................................9
2.3 Regeneration and Restoration .....................................................................10
3. Aim and objectives.......................................................................................................13
4. Site description.............................................................................................................13
5. Methods.........................................................................................................................17
5.1 Spotlighting survey .......................................................................................17
5.2 Bird survey ....................................................................................................17
5.3 Infrared Camera survey...............................................................................18
6. Results...........................................................................................................................19
6.1 Desktop surveys.............................................................................................19
6.2 Field surveys..................................................................................................19
6.2.1 Bird survey............................................................................................19
6.2.2 Infrared camera survey .........................................................................21
6.2.3 Spotlighting survey...............................................................................26
6.2.4 Additional observations ........................................................................26

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7. Discussion......................................................................................................................27
7.1 Survey results..................................................................................................27
7.2 Urban development and habitat requirements ................................................30
8. Recommendations........................................................................................................32
9. Conclusion ....................................................................................................................34
10. References...................................................................................................................35
11. Appendices..................................................................................................................38
List of figures
Title page image. Davenport Park entrance to Bonogin Conservation Area.
Figure 1. Restoration in the riparian zone at Bonogin Creek, Davenport Park, Bonogin..11
Figure 2. Bank erosion in a section of the Wyangan creek in Wyangan VP.....................12
Figure 3. Bonogin CA with Davenport Park in the foreground.........................................14
Figure 4. Tourmaline Park showing a dedicated fire trail. ................................................14
Figure 5. Wyangan VP showing a disused track from a previous land use. Wild dogs and
foxes use these types of tracks for hunting.. ......................................................................15
Figure 6. The three study sites including Davenport Park within the Bonogin Conservation
reserve cluster. ...................................................................................................................16
Figure 7. Camera mounting method for flat ground..........................................................18
Figure 8. Camera mounting method for slope. ..................................................................19
Figure 9. Northern mountain BT photographed in Wyangan VP......................................22
Figure 10. The black rat photographed in Wyangan VP ...................................................22
Figure 11. Bush rat photographed in Wyangan VP...........................................................23
Figure 12. Long-nosed bandicoot photographed in Tourmaline park ...............................23
Figure 13. Australian log runner photographed in Bonogin CA. ......................................24
Figure 14. Swamp wallaby photographed in Bonogin CA................................................24
Figure 15. Red-necked wallaby photographed in Tourmaline park ..................................25
Figure 16. European red foxes photographed in Bonogin CA...........................................25
Figure 17. Proposed quarry site at Reedy Creek showing Tourmaline Park and many other
reserves within the cluster to the west. ...........................................................................32

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List of Tables
Table 1. Bird survey showing individual species counted at each site with the level of
abundance calculated combining all three sites.
Abundance: (1-10 = L), (10-20 = M), (20+ = H)...............................................................20
Table 2. IR Camera survey showing number of triggers per species per site and total number
of trigger events and trigger percentage across all three sites. ..........................................21
Table 3. Spotlighting survey results over three nights at all three sites.............................26

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1. Introduction
Urban expansion is increasing at an alarming rate globally and the total global urban area is
predicted to triple by 2030, with the urban population set to double from 2.84 (in 2000) to 4.9
billion (Lopucki & Kiersztyn, 2015). Urbanisation is a major threat to the biodiversity of
endemic fauna and is responsible for the destruction of the natural habitat and displacement
of many species (Garden, et.al, 2010). Many scientific studies discuss biodiversity within the
context of a given environmental issue, however, it is necessary to understand the importance
of biodiversity in a broader context. Biodiversity is responsible for providing the balance and
stability of ecosystem functions and it ensures that life support systems vital to every living
organism within the biosphere, including humans, is sustainable (White, 1997).
Conservation reserves are relatively undisturbed natural areas within a region and may play a
significant role in the urban environment, by preserving natural ecosystems and providing
refuge for many vulnerable species. Reserves also provide vital ecosystem services such as
minimising soil erosion by reducing water runoff, air quality improvement by pollutant
absorption, carbon sequestration and mitigating the urban heat island effect (Li, et.al, 2015).
It is essential when conducting fauna studies within reserves that the focus is not only
directed toward protecting habitat and ecosystems from a wildlife conservation perspective
but also promoting the need for urban populations to have access to ecosystem services. It is
vital for humans to not regard themselves as somehow separate from the natural environment
but rather as intrinsic to it. It is therefore imperative to adopt a mindset that regards
conservation reserves as natural capital, which enriches human wellbeing (Pelenc & Ballet,
2015). When planning for and managing these reserves it is important to develop a strategic
approach as they can often contain a mix of overabundant and declining species within the
same ecosystem and must be viewed as an integrated social–ecological system (White et.al,
2009).
The City of Gold Coast (Council) Natural Areas Management Unit (NAMU) is responsible
for the management of many areas within the Gold Coast region that are of conservation
significance and currently manages over 13,000 hectares of land comprising over 780
reserves (City of Gold Coast, 2015). This study aims to evaluate NAMU strategic planning
objectives for these areas using a small cluster of reserves located in the Gold Coast
hinterland region as a case study. The diversity of fauna within these reserves were used as
bio-indicators to evaluate the objectives of the Bonogin Conservation Reserves Draft
Management Plan. Specific areas of investigation for this study which have a direct effect on
the quality of the reserves are urban development, invasive species, restoration and
regeneration. A total of 109 birds and mammals are listed as either threatened or vulnerable
in Queensland (QLD) under the “Nature Conservation Act 1992” (NCA, 1992), (Queensland
Government, Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, 2015) and a total of 203
birds and mammals listed as either threatened or vulnerable federally under the
“Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999” (EPBC Act, 1999). Some
of these species either occur or are predicted to occur in the Gold Coast reserves.

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2. Background
NAMU aim is to sustainably manage natural areas within the Gold Coast City which are of
conservation significance and used for the benefit of nature based recreation. This includes
protecting flora and fauna, rare and threatened species and ensuring that habitat is enhanced
and wildlife corridors are protected (City of Gold Coast, 2015).
2.1 Urban development
The Gold Coast is a development driven city and has experienced several decades of rapid
growth which has been heavily influenced not only at a State but also local government level,
through a period of what could be described as highly capitalistic local politics (Dedekorkut-
Howers & Bosman, 2015). Many natural areas in the region have been altered by urban
development, causing connectivity between reserves to be interrupted. This has led to
fragmentation of plant communities and reduced fauna populations. As a consequence,
reduction of species biodiversity and also genetic diversity within species occurs (Farinha-
Marques, et.al, 2011)
The Bonogin reserves cluster is linked to the Burleigh Springbrook bioregional corridor
providing connectivity to the rainforests of Springbrook National Park and several other
ecologically significant locations in the region, (City of Gold Coast, 2013). This connectivity
is compromised however through ongoing urbanisation with residential and commercial
developments, infrastructure like the Pacific Motorway and power easements and has the
potential to be further impacted by a proposed quarry at Reedy Creek.
The planning area is also under immense pressure from local drainage systems due to rapid
residential development in the surrounds and this has increased the intensity of weed
infestations in the reserves. The drainage problem is exacerbated in Wyangan Valley Park
(Wyangan VP) (one of the reserves in the cluster) as either no or inadequate bio-retention
systems were installed when the adjacent Clover Hill residential estate was developed in
2004 (Robertson, et.al, 2006). As a consequence, erosion is exacerbated and creeks
experience increased turbidity and sediment concentration leading to poor water quality
(Gold Coast City Council, 2013).
Since European settlement the area has been subject to extensive logging which resulted in
the decline of several bird species including the powerful owl (Ninox strenua), sooty owl
(Tyto tenebricosa) and glossy black cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami) which rely on tree
hollows for shelter (Gold Coast City Council, 2013). Many hollowed out trees used by these
species can take around 100 years or more to form (Goldingay, 2011). The scenario where
vital components of habitats such as tree hollows are lost has become all too familiar in many
natural areas throughout Australia and provides an example of how anthropogenic activities
from many years earlier are still having repercussions today.

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2.2 Invasive species
2.2.1 Flora
The abundance of native flora can be reduced with the infestation of exotic vegetation which
in turn impacts entire habitats and alters ecosystem services (Reid, et.al, 2009). Whilst any
ecosystem would function more efficiently without introduced species the fact remains
many exotics have been introduced since European settlement and complete removal of them
over the short term would be detrimental and expensive. Complete weed removal would
increase the risk of erosion to exposed soil, cause instability for some endemic plant species
and also lead to displacement of some native fauna species that use exotic vegetation for
shelter (Fleishman et.al, 2003).
Approximately 45 invasive plant species have been identified in the planning area. The
majority of these species occur in small patches and are of little threat, however, kikuyu grass
(Pennisetum clandestinum), lantana (Lantana camara) and the giant devils fig (Solanum
chyrsotrichum) are aggressive in large patches within the reserves and pose a serious threat to
those ecosystems (Gold Coast City Council, 2013). These infestations have altered the natural
habitat of native fauna in the reserves by restricting the growth of native flora, of which many
animal species rely on as a source of food. They also increase the risk of fire as they are a
highly combustible fuel source (Gold Coast City Council, 2013). Drainage in certain
locations within the planning area is an ongoing issue and is often responsible for increased
weed infestations within some reserves.
2.2.2 Fauna
Feral cats (Felis catus), wild dogs (Canis lupus) and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) are the three
main predatory animals within the planning area and all are class 2 declared pests. Class 2
declared pests are those that are established in QLD, represent a serious threat to native
wildlife, the natural environment and QLD primary industries. Under the “Land Protection
Pest and Stock Route Management Act 2002” there is a legal requirement to control class 2
declared pests and it is also the responsibility of land owners to control these animals if they
occur on their property (Queensland Government, 2015). All three predators are responsible
for the decline of many native fauna species nationally and within the planning area. Prey
includes small to medium terrestrial mammals, ground nesting birds and feral cats alone are
estimated to prey on over 345 native species (Gold Coast City Council, 2013).
Feral cats tend to be the most difficult to trap due to their elusive nature and preference for
live prey. They are considered a destructive species within natural areas as they are highly
adaptive within the wild predatory animal spectrum and are also known to be vectors of
disease (Fisher et.al, 2014). There is estimated to be around 1.5 million feral cats in QLD
alone (Gold Coast City Council, 2013). Wild dogs and foxes tend to utilise man made tracks,
roads and utility corridors and it suggested that these utilities should be kept to a minimum
(Gold Coast City Council, 2013). This knowledge should also assist in determining the
approximate locations of where to target control programs.
Several methods exist to control wild dogs such as baiting, trapping and shooting, however,
the two latter methods can be labor intensive and time consuming (Queensland Government,

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2011). Baiting for foxes tends to be a reliable method, however, it presents a problem in
urban settings due to the risk of poisoning domestic animals (Gold Coast City council, 2013).
Wild dog control methods used by City of Gold Coast Council are in accordance with the
QLD wild dog strategy and QLD wild dog offensive group (Gold Coast City Council, 2013).
Methods currently used for fox and wild dog control in the planning area are trapping in the
smaller reserves and baiting for the larger more remote reserves, particularly where support is
needed by rural property owners. Very little targeting of feral cats other than a few urban
parks is currently undertaken (Abbott, 2015). Sodium fluoroacetate known as 1080 is one of
the substances used in the baiting program to euthanise pest animals. It is a naturally
occurring substance in around 30 native plants and subsequently has less of an effect on
native fauna as they have developed an evolutionary tolerance to it making it ideal to target
introduced pests like wild dogs and foxes (QLD Government, Department of Agriculture and
Fisheries, 2015). The QLD wild dog strategy adopts a strategic plan that incorporates the wild
dog barrier fence (WDBF) which currently extends 2500 km from Thargomin to Jandowae in
QLD. Wild dog populations have however increased in some areas inside the fence’s
boundary due to the reluctance of some landowners to control them. Some land owners do
not consider wild dogs as having a detrimental effect on certain land uses and there is also the
concern of possibly poisoning domestic dogs through baiting programs (Queensland
Government, 2011).
The spotted dove (Streptopelia chinensis) and Indian myna (Acridotheres tristis) are also pest
species within sections of the planning area and are responsible for the displacement of many
native birds due to competition for limited resources. The Indian myna is also responsible for
the killing of eggs and offspring of native birds (Gold Coast City Council, 2013).
2.3 Regeneration and Restoration
Restoration and regeneration within the reserves is carried out by council staff and involves a
program of work consisting of revegetation and assisted regeneration. All three study sites are
currently undergoing some form of restoration. The council runs a volunteer program called
Beaches to Bushland landcare group. The purpose of the program is to encourage ownership
of the city’s natural environmental assets by actively engaging them in revegetation of areas
such as riparian zones, swales and other natural areas that have been degraded. Davenport
Park has and continues to improve its natural assets through this volunteer program, (City of
Gold Coast, 2015). The Gold Coast Bushcare group are active in certain parts of the planning
area with a particular emphasis on the riparian zone near Bonogin Creek in Davenport Park,
(Figure 1). Under the direction of staff members from NAMU, volunteers meet once a month
to engage in ecological restoration through planting native vegetation and environmental
weed control (City of Gold Coast, 2015). Species such as Black She-Oak (Allocasuarina
littoralis) casuarina trees have been planted at various locations throughout the planning area
and these form part of the staple diet for the glossy black Cockatoo (Gold Coast City Council,
2013). Another key species for which it is important to maintain good populations of is
Blackbutt (Eucalyptus pilularis), a variety of eucalypt which occurs in the planning area and
provides habitat for vulnerable fauna like the grey goshawk (Accipiter novaehollandiae),
powerful owl and koala (Phascolarctos cinereus).

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Figure 1. Restoration in the riparian zone at Bonogin Creek, Davenport Park, Bonogin.
Photograph J. Towers 2015.
Assisted regeneration currently occurs in sections of the planning area. This is a process
where seedlings of vegetation that are vital to developing sustainable and productive
ecosystems are protected and allowed to generate under natural recovery processes (NSW
Government, Office of Environment and Heritage, 2015). Areas of seed dispersal may be
cleared of unwanted undergrowth such as weeds and potential bush fire fuel sources to assist
with regeneration. This process does have limiting factors however as consideration of seed
dispersal into cleared areas, providing the right amount of shade and limiting competition
from weeds must be part of the management plan (Hardwick, et.al, 1997).
Bonogin and Wyangan Creeks which are tributaries to Mudgeeraba Creek, a sub catchment
of the Nerang River, pass through some of the reserves in the planning area. Much of the
creek system is under pressure from urban development and around 30% of the catchment
area is estimated to be cleared (Robertson, et.al, 2006). Water quality in general is of low
quality and one of the main contributors to this was the standard or lack of sediment control
during development in the area. Poor channel bank stability is apparent in some areas,
(Figure 2), and is a consequence of cleared riparian vegetation causing erosion from extreme
weather events (Robertson, et.al, 2006). Many fauna species rely on continuous vegetation
along creek banks to facilitate movement (Robertson, et.al, 2006).

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Figure 2. Bank erosion in a section of the Wyangan creek in Wyangan VP.
Photograph J. Towers 2015.
Certain objectives within the framework of the management plan are specifically targeted
toward fauna and habitat conservation through regeneration and restoration programs. These
include maintaining and enhancing important wildlife corridors, protecting significant species
and their habitats and an overall commitment to the protection of biodiversity and integrity of
native flora and fauna communities (City of Gold Coast, 2013).

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3. Aim and objectives
Aim:
To evaluate the City of Gold Coast Bonogin Conservation Reserves Draft Management Plan
using the diversity of fauna as bio-indicators.
Objectives:
 Conduct a desktop survey of fauna that have already been recorded in the reserves
over time.
 Conduct fauna surveys within selected reserves to formally identify as many species
as possible to compare with data from existing surveys.
 Conduct additional desktop research to qualify the preferred habitat of these species
based on observations and empirical evidence and then gauge if it is consistent with
the aims and objectives of the Bonogin Conservation Reserves Draft Management
Plan.
4. Site description
The planning area comprises 43 individual reserves covering a total of 1099 hectares (Gold
Coast City Council, 2013). Three study sites were chosen for survey with the study area
comprising three of the larger reserves within the Bonogin Conservation planning area. Site
one, Bonogin Conservation Area, (Bonogin CA), (28° 08’13.41” S, 153° 20’49.42” E); site
two, Tourmaline Park, (28° 07’37.49” S, 153° 23’09.60” E) and; site three, Wyangan VP,
(28° 05’56.22” S, 153° 22’24.29” E). A map of the study area is presented in figure 6.
The planning area sits within the Gold Coast hinterland region in a subtropical climate zone.
Average rainfall ranges from 1000mm-1500mm per year and average daily temperatures
range from 18°C-21°C (Bureau of Meteorology, 2015). All three study sites are partially
surrounded by residential areas with the largest of the three, Bonogin CA, (Figure 3),
bordering Springbrook National Park. Davenport Park, a recreational open space, has been
included in the study area as it contributes ecologically to Bonogin CA and restoration work
has occurred there in the riparian zone along Bonogin creek, attracting many species of birds.
Bird and spotlighting surveys for site one have therefore combined Davenport Park and
Bonogin CA as a single study site.
Vegetation cover varies from closed to open forest and wet to dry sclerophyll. All three study
sites have cleared tracks running through for 4WD access with Tourmaline Park housing a
dedicated fire trail, (Figure 4). The terrain in Bonogin CA and Tourmaline Park consists of
many steep slopes and ridges whilst Wyangan VP, (Figure 5), is predominantly flat terrain
with one main steep embankment running along most of the entire length of the reserve.
Vegetation consists of gallery rainforest, open eucalypt forest and woodland (Gold Coast City
Council, 2015). The majority of the reserves in the cluster are part of the emerging
communities’ domain and a key objective of this initiative is to ensure a viable nature
conservation network is retained and enhanced as the local area develops (Gold Coast City
Council, 2013).

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Figure 3. Bonogin CA with Davenport Park in the foreground. Photograph J. Towers 2015.
Figure 4. Tourmaline Park showing a dedicated fire trail. Photograph J. Towers 2015.

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Figure 5. Wyangan VP showing a disused track from a previous land use. Wild dogs and foxes
use these types of tracks for hunting. Photograph J. Towers 2015.

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Figure 6. The three study sites including Davenport Park within the Bonogin Conservation reserve cluster.
Burleigh Heads

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5. Methods
Desktop surveys were used to compile a list of animal species that had been recorded previously in
the reserves. Following this, three field survey methods were used to record as many species as
possible to compare with data from previous surveys. Surveys took place across approximately five
weeks between June and July 2015. Permission to access the reserves was obtained from council and
park rangers and relevant NAMU staff were informed of the nature and intentions of the surveys.
Liaising with park rangers and staff from NAMU from time to time was necessary to obtain
additional information about fauna, restoration works, legal issues and invasive species control.
Observational survey methods were chosen to eliminate the need for handling and causing stress and
or injury to animals. Assistance with surveying was provided by final year environmental science
students from Griffith University Gold Coast when required. Any additional observations of
significant species other than those expected during surveys were recorded.
5.1 Spotlighting Survey
Surveys were conducted over three nights and involved walking slowly along designated tracks
within each reserve using 6 volt powered spotlights. Various locations were surveyed within each
reserve each night to increase the chances of locating animals with an emphasis on keeping to the
same tracks as much as possible. Trees were scanned from crown to base and from side to side for
arboreal animals, looking for eye shine, and listening for sounds such as scratches, calls and rustling
leaves to assist in locating animals. Additional sightings of ground dwelling animals were also
recorded.
5.2 Bird Survey
Surveys were conducted over six days and involved walking along designated tracks within each
reserve looking and listening for birds and identifying them either visually or by sound. The same
tracks were used each time to ensure that species recorded were observed across the same habitat
areas each day. Site one surveying combined walking along the creek at Davenport Park and a
section of track within Bonogin CA. Where an identification could not be made on site, bird calls
were either recorded on a recording device or the bird was photographed and or a detailed
description noted. Formal identification of some species was made at a later time based on field
descriptions and available data from previous surveys or with the assistance from qualified council
staff. Where possible, the number of each individual species detected was recorded and as an
accurate count may not have been possible on site, species were recorded as either low, medium, or
high in abundance. Any additional sightings of unexpected and significant animals or other relevant
observations was also recorded.

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5.3 Infrared camera survey
Two digital infrared motion detection cameras were used over a period of five weeks within the three
reserves. Cameras were moved periodically within reserves to provide a variety of habitat types
including dense and open understory, near tracks and creeks in order to detect a greater variety of
species. Care was taken to choose sites that had target areas that weren’t overly obstructed by
vegetation and could also be mounted to trees offering a good perspective in relation to the ground.
Where the ground was flat, cameras were mounted on trees that were slightly angled downwards
toward the target area, (Figure 7), or if the target area was on an upward slope the cameras were
placed higher up from the ground on a vertical tree, (Figure 8). An object such as a back pack was
placed in the target area and a few test shots were taken to ensure the cameras were directed toward a
good position to photograph ground dwelling animals. Bait used was a mixture of oats and peanut
butter scattered within the target area. Some of the bait was scattered in small clumps just outside the
central target area to encourage foraging and some was applied to rocks and/or logs and low over
hanging branches to prolong the scent. Cameras were set to trigger at ten second intervals with 3
shots per trigger. Cameras were checked every three days and a clean SD card inserted. Images taken
of animals were viewed and formally identified on computer.
Figure 7. Camera mounting method for flat ground.

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Figure 8. Camera mounting method for slope.
6. Results
6.1 Desktop surveys
A list of significant fauna species based on conservation status from the EPBC Act and the NCA was
compiled by NAMU for the planning area (See Appendix 1). Several bird surveys have been
conducted within the planning area recording species present but not abundance. Based on literature
reviews, previous surveys for mammals and reptiles were minimal and occurred prior to 2008. Some
of the species recorded in these surveys included the sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps), fawn-footed
melomy (Melomys cervinipes), feather-tail glider (Acrobates pygmaeus), northern mountain BT and
platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), (City of Gold Coast, 2015). A 2012 bird list for Wyangan VP
and a 2008 bird list for Bonogin CA are provided in Appendix 2. No existing bird surveys have been
found for Tourmaline Park. A list of invasive weed spices is provided in Appendix 3 and a list of
invasive fauna species is provided in Appendix 4.
6.2 Field Surveys
6.2.1 Bird Survey
A total of 27 species were recorded across the three sites (Table 1). Some species such as the red-
browed finch were given an approximate count as they were difficult to accurately count due to their
constant mobility. The red-browed finch recorded the highest count of an individual species however
they were observed in large numbers within lantana and weren’t encountered across all six days of
survey. All other species were evenly recorded across each day of survey.

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Table 1. Bird survey showing individual species counted at each site with the level of abundance
calculated by combining all three sites. Abundance: (1-10 = L), (10-20 = M), (20+ = H).
Species
No. of individuals
Site 1 Bonogin CA
No. of individuals
Site 2 Tourmaline
Park
No. of
individuals
Site 3
Wayangan VP
Abundance
red-browed finch 21 35 H
rainbow lorikeet 8 13 11 H
brown thornbill 13 5 13 H
magpie lark 28 H
eastern whip bird 10 1 15 H
torresian crow 9 7 10 H
kookaburra 6 6 5 M
pied currawong 4 7 3 M
bar shouldered dove 10 3 M
masked lapwing 8 3 M
willie wagtail 5 2 3 M
striated pardalote 2 1 7 M
little wattlebird 7 1 L
brown cuckoo dove 3 4 L
grey fantail 2 4 L
little corella 3 1 L
Australian magpie 3 1 L
galah 4 L
spotted dove 3 1 L
Australian brush turkey 1 3 L
pied butcherbird 1 3 L
fan tailed cuckoo 4 L
red back fairy wren 2 L
superb fairy wren 2 L
sulphur crested cockatoo 2 L
white browed scrub wren 2 L
pale headed rosella 1 L

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6.2.2 Infrared Camera Survey
A variety of small to medium sized mammals and three bird species were recorded across all three
sites, for a total of 12 species (Table 2). The northern mountain BT, (Figure 9), recorded the highest
number of trigger events for an individual species across all three sites. Unconfirmed rodents
recorded the highest number of trigger events overall for that order of mammals and were most likely
either black rats, (Figure 10) or bush rats (Rattus fuscipes), (Figure 11), and possibly a few grassland
melomys (Melomys burtoni) but these were unconfirmed. Black rats recorded the second highest
number of trigger events for an individual species. Black rats were distinguished from bush rats
when a clear view of differentiating features such as tail length and ear shape and size could be
determined. A lower number of trigger events occurred for a few other species such as the long-
nosed bandicoot (Perameles nasuta), (Figure 12), and Australian log runner (Orthonyx temminckii),
(Figure 13). The Australian brush turkey recorded the third highest number of trigger events for an
individual species. The swamp wallaby, (Figure 14), was recorded across all three sites however the
red-necked wallaby, (Figure 15), was only recorded in Tourmaline Park. False triggers were not
included in the overall tally of trigger events. The introduced European red fox, (Figure 16), was
photographed at all three sites on the first night of survey for each site.
Table 2. IR Camera survey showing number of triggers per species per site and total number of trigger
events and trigger percentage across all three sites.
Species
Bonogin
CA
Tourmaline
Park
Wyangan
VP
Number
of
Trigger
events
Total
Trigger
s %
unconfirmed rodents * 20 98 290 408 32.0
northern mountain BT ** 96 19 186 301 23.6
black rat ** 10 7 126 143 11.2
Australian brush-turkey 1 7 105 113 8.9
red-necked wallaby ** 111 111 8.7
swamp wallaby ** 29 31 47 107 8.4
bush rat 8 7 53 68 5.3
European red fox ** 7 3 3 13 1.0
long-nosed bandicoot 2 3 2 7 0.5
Australian log runner ** 2 2 0.2
feral dog 1 1 0.1
northern brown bandicoot 1 1 0.1
wonga pigeon 1 1 0.1
false triggers 48 43 134 225
Total not including false triggers 1276
* Most common rodents were black rats and bush rats
** Two individuals of the same species on occasion captured in the one frame

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Figure 9. Northern mountain BT photographed in Wyangan VP. Photograph J. Towers 2015.
Figure 10. The black rat photographed in Wyangan VP. Photograph J. Towers 2015.

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Figure 11. Bush rat photographed in Wyangan VP. Photograph J. Towers 2015.
Figure 12. Long-nosed bandicoot photographed in Tourmaline Park. Photograph J. Towers 2015.

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Figure 13. Australian log runner photographed in Bonogin CA. Photograph J. Towers 2015.
Figure 14. Swamp wallaby photographed in Bonogin CA. Photograph J. Towers 2015.

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Figure 15. Red-necked wallaby photographed in Tourmaline Park. Photograph J. Towers 2015.
Figure 16. European red foxes photographed in Bonogin CA. Photograph J. Towers 2015.

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6.2.3 Spotlighting Survey
The spotlighting survey recorded a total of 10 species (Table 3). Bonogin Conservation Area
recorded the highest number of individual species with eight in total, with Wyangan VP recording
the lowest with two individual species.
Table 3. Spotlighting survey results over three nights at all three sites
Species
No. of
individuals
Site 1
Bonogin
No. of individuals
Site 2 Tourmaline
No. of individuals
Site 3 Wayangan
Birds
tawny frogmouth 2 2
grey goshawk 1
brown cuckoo dove 1
Amphibians
great barred frog 1
cane toad 1 1
Mammals
micro bat 1
squirrel glider 1
northern mountain BT 1
red-necked wallaby 1
pacific black duck 8
Total No. of Species 7 3 2
6.2.4 Additional observations
A total of three wild dogs (Canis familiaris) were observed during surveying in Bonogin CA, two at
the southern end near Tallebudgera Creek and one near the gate at Davenport Park. Apart from a few
skinks no other reptiles were encountered during this study.

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7. Discussion
7.1 Survey results
The purpose of his study was to use the data collected at the three sites to provide an example of
some of the fauna that are present within the planning area and not to make a comparison between
sites, however, data from each site can tell us something about the habitat types and ecotones in each
reserve and where increased wildlife activity is occurring. As very few data from previous surveys,
mainly data on mammals, were found for the planning area during initial literature reviews, it was
difficult to determine if mammal species observed during this study were consistent with what has
previously occurred there.
Of the three field surveys completed during this study the bird surveys yielded the highest number of
individual species, with a total of 27 recorded across all three sites. Less bird species however were
observed within Tourmaline Park, which is possibly attributed to less variation in habitat types
within that reserve when compared to Wyangan VP and Bonogin CA. This may not be a concern if
certain species have never occurred in this location but does present a case to keep current and
accurate GIS maps. These maps can be then used to compare past and present vegetation types and
altered landscapes, which would allow for inferences to be made about fauna that occur within the
reserves.
When comparing the number of bird species from this survey with results from bird surveys in the
planning area from 2008 to 2012, results were optimistic (within a range of 25 – 45 species). When
comparing recent data to a pre-1995 survey for Wyangan VP which recorded > 60 species, results
were substantially lower. Since 1995, the diversity of bird species appears to have declined according
to surveys conducted in the area prior to that time. Reasons for this could either be loss of habitat
from urban development or competition for resources between certain species causing displacement.
Urban development can lead to vital linkages being cutoff and restricting continuity between
reserves which are required for certain nomadic and migratory species (Gold Coast City Council,
2013). It may also be the case that subsequent surveys have simply not encountered those species.
The southern book-book owl (Ninox boobook), yellow-rumped thornbill (Acanthiza chrysorrhoa)
and wedge-tailed eagle (Aquila audax) for example all appeared in a pre-1995 list for Wyangan VP
and have not been recorded again since in that reserve. All bird species recorded were observed
evenly over the six days with the exception of the red-browed finch which was only observed on two
separate days but in large numbers. One of these observations occurred in Wyangan VP in a
particular patch of lantana of which subsequent visits to this same patch produced no further
observations of that species.
During the survey period, several bird species were consistently encountered in greater abundance
than others over each day and may indicate an imbalance in species type. With the exception of the
red-browed finch, five species appeared to dominate over the three sites with magpie larks recording
the highest abundance in Davenport Park. The rainbow lorikeet and brown thornbill (Acanthiza
pusilla) were spread fairly evenly across the three sites with the eastern whip bird (Psophodes
olivaceus) being fairly common in sites one and three. The brown thornbill is commonly found in
dry and wet locations with dense shrubbery and along water courses and can feed from the ground up
(Birdlife Australia, 2015). This is consistent with where they were most observed in Wyangan VP
within thick shrubs near Wyangan Creek. Magpie larks are ground dwelling birds and like to forage
in open grassed areas such as Davenport Park. They have successfully adapted to humans and the

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urban environment and are often seen in large numbers (Kitchen et.al, 2010). A study was done in
Victoria comparing the fleeing distance between a researcher approaching magpie larks in urban
environments and in rural landscapes and it was found that urban birds would flee at a shorter
distance (12m + 1m) when approached, which was nearly three times closer than that in the rural
location (Kitchen et.al, 2010). This study highlighted that there is a correlation between successful
species rapidly colonising urban environments through learning that humans pose no direct threat. It
would be beneficial to determine if this phenomena is common among other species that are highly
abundant near human settlements. Conversely, some of the smaller bird species encountered such as
the red backed (Malurus melanocephalus) fairy wren and superb fairy (Malurus cyaneus) wren were
only encountered on one occasion and whilst these species are not listed as threatened it could be an
indication that they are easily startled and uncomfortable in the presence of humans. Whilst the focus
on conservation of vulnerable and endangered species is priority, species that are considered to occur
in high abundance and are of least concern at present can still become threatened in the future if
habitat is not protected. A study carried out in Wollongong NSW in 1996 compared assemblages of
birds that were suburb specialists to those that were reserve specialists. It was found that the brown
thornbill, eastern whipbird (Psophodes olivaceus), red-browed finch, white browed scrub wren
(Sericornis frontalis) and superb fairy wren (all species that occur in the Bonogin reserves) were all
reserve specialists and low in abundance. There was a correlation between abundance and
fragmented habitat in that location and conversely suburb specialists were much higher in abundance
(Wood, 1996). This highlights the need to ensure that the size of reserves and connectivity between
them is not compromised by future urban development. Remnant vegetation alone within reserves
cannot be relied upon to sustain biodiversity without considering how surrounding landscapes are
managed and this can only be achieved with careful and informed urban planning (Catterall, et.al,
2012). Continued monitoring of biodiversity should be a major component of conservation reserve
restoration (Catterall, et.al, 2012), and this information should be available to urban planners.
Spotlighting recorded only a small number of species and could be due to the reduced fauna activity
in the cooler conditions for this time of year. Species encountered were those commonly seen in the
urban landscape such as brushtail possums and tawny frogmouths. Two significant species
encountered however were the grey goshawk, listed as near threatened in QLD and the squirrel glider
(Petaurus norfolcensis), which is common in QLD but listed as vulnerable in NSW and threatened in
Victoria (Australian Museum, 2015). The grey goshawk was spotted perched high in a tree at a
location of higher altitude in Bonogin CA in a tall closed forest section which is consistent with its
preferred habitat (Birdlife Australia, 2015). The Burleigh Springbrook bioregional corridor is a vital
ecological link for this species and is an example of the importance of maintaining connectivity
between reserves. The squirrel glider has a preference for dry sclerophyll forests and woodlands
below 300m in altitude which is consistent with the location in Wyangan VP where it was identified
(Bell, et.al, 2011). This species also relies on tree hollows for nesting and refuge (Beyer, et.al, 2008)
and it is likely that glider numbers could be low in the area as many tree hollows have disappeared as
a result of previous land clearing regimes. This provides an example of why habitat must be
preserved to ensure these species can remain in the planning area well into the future.
The majority of mammal observations were achieved with camera surveys and results showed there
was a lack of diversity and three of the recorded species were non-native. The number of trigger
events were highest for the northern mountain BT, the black rat and Australian brush turkey and
these three species were responsible for around 45% of all trigger events. The results may indicate
that these species are more abundant than others in these reserves and with evidence of predation by

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feral animals, fragmentation and loss of habitat from urban development, fauna diversity may be an
issue in the planning area. This is particularly relevant for those species that cannot easily adapt to
the urban environment. Overall Wyangan VP recorded a significantly higher number of trigger
events and could be due to that reserve housing more habitat with dense protective understory,
allowing fauna, particularly smaller mammals to forage safely. The results cannot be regarded as
conclusive based on the number of cameras, individual locations used and the time frame of the
survey however they do give some insight into the dynamics of habitat structure and diversity and
habitat types where certain species are likely to occur.
The habitat where species were encountered was fairly consistent with literature records of preferred
habitat. The northern mountain BT recorded the highest number of trigger events for the camera
survey and was persistent over time with its foraging activity within the target area and appeared to
be unintimidated by other species that came into frame from time to time. Brushtail possums are
highly adapted to urban environments and can live within these reserves or in residential areas and in
close proximity to humans (Queensland Government, 2015).
Diversity of small mammals was low, with camera surveys recording only four species including the
black rat, bush rat, long-nosed bandicoot and northern brown bandicoot (Isoodon macrourus). The
highest number of observations for these species occurred in Wyangan VP which houses many
patches of thick scrub and dense understory.
Black rats are an introduced species not only in Australia but worldwide and are known to displace
many native rodents such as the Australian bush rat (Stokes, et.al, 2009). In 2004 a study was
conducted on Beechcroft Peninsula, Jervis Bay, NSW in an area covering one hectare, consisting of a
broad variation of vegetation types. Black rats were experimentally removed for a period of 12
months from five sites each 1-ha in area and compared to five control sites each 1-ha in area. At the
conclusion of this period bush rat numbers had doubled within the area where black rats had been
removed from whereas the untreated site remained unchanged (Stokes, et.al, 2009). This reinforces
the fact that displacement from introduced species is another factor which can affect the abundance
of many native species. Black rats were observed with the cameras foraging in the vicinity of other
species such as wallabies and possums. This would indicate they are unintimidated and better
adapted to foraging in the presence of other species compared to the bush rat which was only
observed on its own. This gives the black rat a distinct advantage over resources.
The long-nosed bandicoot was recorded in all three locations and the northern brown bandicoot only
recorded in Wyangan VP, with the number of trigger events for them being very low (<10). This
could indicate a low abundance of these species in the area due to a lack of suitable habitat and/or
wariness of predators.
The Australian brush turkey recorded a high number of trigger events in Wyangan VP and is a
species that is common within the urban landscape in this region. They are often attracted to these
locations when offered food by humans and are regularly seen foraging around picnic areas
(Warnken et.al, 2004). Brush turkeys can be destructive within urban natural areas and are often
responsible for reduced leaf litter density, leading to reduced ground cover and seed and seedling
density and this has negative implications for fauna that rely on these areas for habitat (Warnken
et.al, 2004).

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The swamp wallaby was observed regularly with the cameras at all three sites and this can be
attributed to its ability to live in various habitat types such as open forests, ferny gullies, woodlands,
heathlands, lantana thickets and shrubby water courses (Queensland museum, Queensland
government, 2015), and all three sites contained these habitat types. Due to their dentition they are
browsing specialists and can consume a variety of shrubs, ferns, grasses and herbs. This, combined
with their ability to move at high speed through thick scrub, explains why they were observed in all
three reserves within varying habitat types (Richardson, 2012). The red-necked wallaby which
recorded a high number of trigger events can also reside in several habitat types such as dry open
forests with some undergrowth (consistent with Tourmaline Park) and also road side verges and
grasslands (Queensland museum, Queensland government, 2015). They have a selective diet
consisting of native grasses and can supplement with forbs as a secondary dietary resource
(Richardson, 2012) and they were observed foraging within what appeared to be an area of a native
species of grass. As this species was only observed in Tourmaline Park however it could represent an
isolated population. A major power easement sits adjacent to this reserve and presents another barrier
to the Burleigh Springbrook bioregional corridor in addition to nearby residential developments and
the Pacific Motorway.
Medium-sized mammals such as quolls and potoroos, which are predicted to occur in the reserves,
were not encountered during this study. It is likely that they have not been able to adapt to rapid
urbanisation as well as other species such as the northern mountain BT and introduced red fox. This
phenomena is known as biotic homogenization (Lopucki & Kiersztyn, 2015). Small mammals prefer
habitat with a dense understory and which is not spatially isolated (Lopucki & Kiersztyn, 2015). The
long-nosed potoroo (Potorous tridactylus) has been recorded in the cluster and given that it is a
vulnerable species, further studies into its numbers within the area are desirable. They are known to
be large consumers of underground fungi and thought to play an important role in fungi dispersal
throughout forested areas. It is thought their declining numbers may have an effect on species
composition to levels which may not yet be realised (Ford, 2014).
As feral animal control is one of the major objectives of the Bonogin Conservation Reserves Draft
Management Plan, Council has a dedicated team to deal with this. European red foxes are considered
a major predator and cause the decline and extinction of native medium-sized mammals and also
prey on many smaller species such as the long-nosed bandicoot and long-nosed potoroo (Dexter &
Murray, 2009). Several control methods exist, however, the one which has proven most successful in
increasing the abundance of native fauna over a larger area is broad scale baiting. Bait stations using
substances like 1080 are placed in blocks within one location, culling them in that area whilst at the
same time drawing them away from another location (Dexter & Murray, 2009).
7.2 Urban Development and habitat requirements
Isolation, habitat fragmentation and modification from urban development and predation by feral
animals have a major effect on the abundance of many of the 13 species from the significant fauna
list in Appendix 1 (EPBC Act, 1999). The long-nosed potoroo, spotted tailed quoll (Dasyurus
maculatus), northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus) and brush-tailed rock wallaby (Petrogale
penicillata) are all adversely affected by these factors. It would appear based on these key
threatening processes that it is a major challenge to protect these species from external influences
given the constant pressure from urban development.

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Access to resources such as water and adequate food supply must also be considered with regard to
the home range of any given species. For example sections of Wyangan Creek containing water of
low quality may determine how far certain species are able to travel given they may require
continuous tracts of protective riparian vegetation to access a potable water source. The decline of
many species is often a direct result of them being habitat specialists as opposed to the increased
abundance of others that are habitat generalists (Chambers & Dickman, 2002). The northern
mountain BT and black rat which can adapt to highly modified urbanised areas could be considered
habitat generalists. In contrast, the glossy black cockatoo and long-nosed bandicoots are examples of
species that are habitat specialists. The glossy black cockatoo requires certain species of casuarina as
a staple food source in its diet and spends a large proportion of its time foraging in these trees. The
long-nosed bandicoot requires a mosaic pattern of dense understory for diurnal nesting and more
open areas for foraging at night. The specialised habitat requirement by the long-nosed bandicoot
was demonstrated during a study at a site in North Head NSW, which compared the habitat use
between natural and highly modified environments (Chambers & Dickman, 2002). The Bonogin
reserves at present do appear to offer suitable habitat for these two species and this shows that it is
vital to maintain specialised vegetation communities and providing habitat variation to ensure these
animals continue to exist there.
The proposed quarry at Reedy Creek, (Figure 17), requires an area of 216 hectares for the site
however the development company maintain that the disturbance footprint will only be 65 hectares.
The initial application was rejected by Council in 2013 however it is currently being appealed in the
Planning and Environment Court, Brisbane (Boral Resources vs Gold Coast City Council, 2014).
An environmental impact statement has been completed for the proposed development upon which
flora and fauna surveying had been conducted. A broad range of fauna surveying methods had been
used detecting a total of 12 native mammals, 11 native reptiles, 69 bird and 9 frog species (Boral
resources, 2013). Whilst koalas and glossy black cockatoos were observed during surveys no specific
fauna species list was provided in this report. It is therefore unknown if any of the recorded species
were protected under any state and or federal conservation acts.

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Figure 17. Proposed quarry site at Reedy Creek showing Tourmaline Park and several other reserves
within the cluster to the west. Overlay, Boral resources, 2013.
To reduce the likelihood of genetic drift and inbreeding it is vital that reserves such as these maintain
linkages via wildlife corridors to ensure genetic diversity is increased within a given species (Miller,
et.al, 2013). Failure to do this can often result in extinction of a species. Developments such as the
proposed quarry at Reedy Creek will have an adverse effect on fauna movement through corridors if
it proceeds. Consideration must be given to all factors relating to management of the planning area
and the effect they have on a broader scale. This should then be viewed within the context of the long
term ecological sustainability of the region.
8. Recommendations
Biodiversity of fauna is a key indicator to the efficacy of conservation management for natural areas
in the urban landscape and should be one of the main evaluation methods which directly and
indirectly provides beneficial outcomes for the environment and all stakeholders and associated
groups. This evaluation could be difficult however as it is ideal to have baseline data such as
comprehensive fauna records from a previous historical state to compare with current data (Bull
et.al, 2014). Some bird species that were recorded in the planning area before 1995 and have not
been recorded since should be investigated. Previous bird surveys have been of assistance in this
study to make comparisons between past and present species observations, however, level of
abundance of each species would be more useful in determining ecosystem dynamics.
N

33 | P a g e
Survey results from this study can be used in combination with previous species lists as baseline data
with which to refer to for all future fauna studies.
In accordance with the management plan for the Bonogin Conservation Reserves Cluster it is
recommended that fauna surveys be conducted annually and include birds, mammals, reptiles and
aquatic species and the level of abundance. More comprehensive studies into why certain fauna are
more abundant than others in certain locations would also be recommended. A further study into the
effect of barriers to the Burleigh Springbrook bioregional corridor is also recommended with a
particular focus on the effect they may be having on Tourmaline Park fauna diversity.
As the Bonogin CA Reserve borders Springbrook National Park it is important that Council
conservation management strategies for that area are consistent with state or federal legislation.
Ongoing consultation for this reserve and indeed the entire planning area needs to occur between all
jurisdictions and stakeholders where relevant, for future planning.
It is highly recommended to manage the reserves to an extent that can favour habitat specialists in an
attempt to obtain a more even spread of species and abundance as opposed to having several
dominant species. It is understood however that resources may sometimes be limited to achieve this.
More signs erected in recreational areas within the reserves to discourage the feeding of wild life is
recommended to reduce reliance of certain species on human food sources and which will draw them
away from inappropriate locations.
Continued efforts to revegetate and assist in regeneration should continue, particularly in the riparian
zones such as degraded areas of Wyangan Creek. Restoration in Davenport Park provides an
excellent example of riparian restoration and should be used as a benchmark. Some sections of these
creeks are exposed to periodic intense weather events which leads to erosion causing bank instability
in some sections. Periodic assessment of the water quality and channel stability of the creeks within
the reserves particularly in Wyangan VP is recommended to ensure the overall habitat quality is
maintained to a level that can sustain native aquatic, avian and terrestrial flora and fauna
communities.
Certain exotic plant species may need to remain in small patches in the interim to provide habitat for
some fauna species such as the red-browed finch whilst keeping the majority of vegetation
populations under control so as not to displace native flora. Weeds such as lantana that are currently
being used as habitat could gradually be replaced with plant species that have similar protective
characteristics such as spines but are native and are a less aggressive alternative. Suitable lantana
replacements are (orange thorn) Pittosporum multiflorum or (black thorn) Bursaria spinose. Planting
these species and weeding lantana in a mosaic pattern would give time for the alternate vegetation to
mature and effectively replace the lantana gradually (Save our waterways now, 2015).
All survey data should be made available to all relevant Council departments, including the
Environmental Planning Unit, Parks and Recreation and Town Planning. Regular evaluations of the
performance of the conservation management objectives for Bonogin and indeed all areas of
conservation significance managed by NAMU within the Gold Coast region should be conducted.

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9. Conclusion
It may be argued that natural areas such as those within the Bonogin Conservation Reserve Cluster
have entered a new phase in the evolutionary process as a result of anthropogenic influences and may
need to be managed in this altered state. The reality is that the existing vegetation matrix may not be
able to provide the ideal habitat for all species that were once in abundance there, however, the
opportunity exists and every effort must be made to provide the best possible habitat with the current
vegetation regime.
Based on the results from this study it can be concluded that the Bonogin reserves cluster are a
significant refuge for many species within the highly urbanised environment in which they reside.
They are areas of conservation significance and provide important aesthetic value and ecological
services to the local community. Management of the reserves is not without its challenges though
and often limited resources can have an effect on the degree to which they are restored and
maintained. Every resource available however should be utilised efficiently to obtain the best
possible outcomes. Whilst it is important to consider ecological impacts to the reserves, a balanced
approach to conservation management must take into account economic, social and cultural values.
This requires continued consultation and negotiation with all stakeholders who have either a direct or
indirect interest in these natural areas and the value they provide to society in general.

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38 | P a g e
11. Appendices Appendix 1
List of significant fauna for the Bonogin conservation cluster.
Scientific Name Common Name
Recorded in
reserves (R)
cluster (C)
or predicted
(P)
Status
NCA EPBC
Ecological Requirements
AMPHIBIANS
Adelotus brevis tusked frog R V
Inhabits rainforests and eucalypt forests. Also lives in pastures and around human
settlements. Found in Bonogin Conservation Area.
Assa darlingtoni pouched frog C NT
Inhabits mixed eucalypt moist open forests and broadleaved spotted gum dry open
forests. Identified in the eastern and western region on the planning area.
Litoria
olongburensis
wallum sedge
frog P V
Inhabits wetland regions and ephemeral swamps with banksias and melaleucas. National
recovery plan available.
Litoria pearsoniana cascade treefrog R V
Dense riparian vegetation, streams in rainforests and wet eucalypt forests. Exists in
Bonogin, Reedy and Tallebudgera Creek tributaries and south of Smith Rd.
Mixophyes fleayi fleay's frog P E E Mountain rainforests, National recovery plan available for stream frogs of SE QLD.
Mixophyes iteratus giant barred frog P E E Wet forest. National recovery plan available for stream frogs of SE QLD.
REPTILES
Coeranoscincus
reticulatus
three-toed snake
tooth skink P V
Rainforest and occasional moist eucalypt forests on loamy or sandy soils.
Acanthophis
antarcticus death adder P NT
Inhabits dry and wets eucalypt forest, rainforests and heath, often utilises leaf litter for
cover. Unconfirmed sightings in upper Bonogin conservation area.
BIRDS
Accipiter
novaehollandiae grey goshawk R NT
Occurs in various forests, particularly coastal closed forests. Occurs within Bonogin
Conservation Area, and the eastern sections of the planning area.
Anthochaera
phyrgia
regent
honeyeater P E Temperate woodlands and open forests. National recovery plan available.
Botaurus
poiciloptilus
Australasian
bittern P E Terrestrial wetlands with tall dense vegetation, occasionally estuarine habitats.

39 | P a g e
Recorded in
reserves (R)
cluster (C)
or predicted
(P)
Status
NCA EPBC
Calyptorhynchus
lathami
glossy black
cockatoo R V
Dependent on Allocasuarina, utilising forests with these trees. Regularly sighted in
Bonongin conservation Area and around Reedy and Wyangan Creeks.
Cyclopsitta
diophthalma coxeni
coxen’s fig-
parrot P E E
Subtropical rainforests in regions bordering sclerophyll forests. National recovery plan
available.
Ephippiorhynchus
asiaticus
black necked
stork/Jabiru C NT
Inhabits river pools, swamps and tidal flats. Recorded in the northern section of the
cluster at Somerset Drive and in the western regions at Lower Wyangan Creek and around
Reedy Creek.
Lathamus discolor swift parrot P E E
Migrates from its Tasmanian breeding grounds to overwinter in the box-ironbark forests
and woodlands of Victoria, New South Wales and southern Queensland. National recovery
plan available.
Ninox strenua powerful owl R V
Inhabits open sclerophyll forests and woodlands. Recorded within the ridgeline of Bonogin
Conservation Area.
Podargus ocellatus
marbled
frogmouth R V
Prefers subtropical rainforests, particularly wet, sheltered gullies along creek lines within
the tributaries of Bonogin and Tallebudgera Creeks and in Bonogin Conservation Area.
Poephila cincta
cincta
black throated
finch P V E Grassy woodlands. National recovery plan available.
Rostratula australis painted snipe P V Swamp, marshes and dam areas.
Turnix
melanogaster
black-breasted
button quail P V
Coastal scrublands, vine forests, subtropical rainforests and woodlands. National recovery
plan available.
Tyto tenebricosa sooty owl R NT
Occurs in rainforests, nesting in large tree hollows. Associated with the tall moist forests
of Bonogin Conservation Area, and along the upper tributaries of Tallebudgera Creek.

40 | P a g e
Recorded in
reserves (R)
cluster (C)
or predicted
(P)
Status
NCA EPBC
MAMMALS
Chalinolobus
dwyeri
large eared pied
bat P V Forages in dry sclerophyll forests and rainforest edges.
Dasyurus
hallucatus northern quoll P E
Diversity of habitats, generally encompassing rocky areas for dens. National recovery plan
available.
Dasyurus
maculatus
maculatus spot-tailed quoll P V E
Utilised structurally diverse forests that provide a range of habitat types such as trees,
hollows, logs, rocky outcrop, caves and crevices.
Petrogale
penicillata
brush-tailed
rock-wallaby P V
Rocky escarpments, outcrops and cliffs with a preference for complex structures with
fissures, caves and ledges.
Potorous
tridactylus subsp.
tridactylus
long-nosed
potoroo C V V
Inhabits a variety of vegetation types from subtropical and warm temperate rainforest
through tall open forest with dense understory to dense coastal heaths.
Phascolarctos
cinereus koala R V Occurs in dry and wet eucalypt forests.
Pseudomys
novaehollandiae
New Holland
mouse P V Occurs in heathlands, woodlands and dry sclerophyll forests with dense shrub layers.
Pteropus
poliocephalus
grey-headed
flying fox R V V Roosts in eucalypt forest, mangroves and melaleuca forests.
INSECTS
Ornithoptera
richmondia
Richmond
birdwing
butterfly R V Eggs laid on the larval food plant Pararistolochis praevenosa which grows in rainforest.
Phyllodes imperialis
pink underwing
moth P E
Source: City of Gold Coast (2015).

41 | P a g e
Appendix 2
Existing bird species list from Wyangan VP 2012
Common Name Scientific Name
Australian king-parrot Alisterus scapularis
sulphur-crested cockatoo Cacatua galerita
little corella Cacatua sanguinea
fan-tailed cuckoo Cacomantis flabelliformis
pheasant coucal Centropus phasianinus
Australian wood duck Chenonetta jubata
white-headed pigeon Columba leucomela
black-faced cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae
torresian crow Corvus orru
pied butcherbird Cracticus nigrogularis
Australian magpie Cracticus tibicen
grey butcherbird Cracticus torquatus
laughing kookaburra Dacelo novaeguineae
plumed whistling-duck Dendrocygna eytoni
spangled drongo Dicrurus bracteatus
white-faced heron Egretta novaehollandiae
galah Eolophus roseicapillus
eastern yellow robin Eopsaltria australis
peaceful dove Geopelia striata
magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca
yellow-faced honeyeater Lichenostomus chrysops
eastern sedgefrog Litoria fallax
brown cuckoo-dove Macropygia amboinensis
red backed fairy-wren Malurus melanocephalus
noisy miner Manorina melanocephala
lewin's honeyeater Meliphaga lewinii
leaden flycatcher Myiagra rubecula
scarlet honeyeater Myzomela sanguinolenta
crested pigeon Ocyphaps lophotes
golden whistler Pachycephala pectoralis
striated pardalote Pardalotus striatus
noisy friarbird Philemon corniculatus
pale-headed rosella Platycercus adscitus
eastern whipbird Psophodes olivaceus

42 | P a g e
satin bowerbird Ptilonorhynchus violaceus
grey fantail Rhipidura albiscapa
white browed scrubwren Sericornis frontalis
Australasian figbird Sphecotheres vieilloti
pied currawong Strepera graculina
Australian white ibis Threskiornis molucca
forest kingfisher Todiramphus macleayii
rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus
masked Lapwing Vanellus miles novaehollandiae
Existing bird species list from Bonogin CA 2008.
brown thornbill Acanthiza pusilla
little shrike-thrush Colluricincla megarhyncha
black-faced cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae
white-throated treecreeper Cormobates leucophaea
Australian magpie Cracticus tibicen
laughing kookaburra Dacelo novaeguinea
eastern yellow robin Eopsaltria astralis
bar-shouldered dove Geopelia humeralis
brown cuckoo-dove Macropygia amboinensis
Lewin's honeyeater Meliphaga lewinii
scarlet honeyeater Myzomela sanguinolenta
striated pardalote Pardalotus striatus
noisy friarbird Philemon corniculatus
eastern rosella Platycercus eximus
eastern whipbird Psophodes olivaceus
grey fantail Rhipidura albiscapa
Australasian figbird Sphecotheres vieilloti
pied currawong Strepera graculina
rainbow lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus
silvereye Zosterops lateralis

43 | P a g e
Appendix 3
List of invasive plant species to be controlled in the planning area.
Common Name Scientific name Class
crofton weed Ageratina adenophora
mist flowerm Ageratina riparia
blue billygoat weed Ageratum houstonianum
whiskey grass Andropogon virginicus
ground asparagus Asparagus aethiopicus 'Sprengeri' Class 3
groundsel bush Baccharis halimifolia Class 2
cobbler's pegs Bidens pilosa var. Pilosa
para grass Brachiaria mutica
thorny poinciana Caesalpinia decapetala
rhodes grass Chloris gayana
camphor laurel Cinnamomum camphora
flaxleaf fleabane Conyza bonariensis
silver-leaf desmodium Desmodium uncinatum
duranta Duranta erecta
balloon cotton bush Gomphocarpus physocarpus
balsam Impatiens walleriana
mile a minute Ipomoea cairica
jacaranda Jacaranda mimosifolia
lantana Lantana camara Class 3
japanese honeysuckle Lonicera japonica
siratro Macroptilium atropurpureum
perennial horse gram Macrotyloma axillare var. axillare
molasses grass Melinis minutiflora
red natal grass Melinis repens
glycine Neonotonia wightii
mickey mouse bush Ochna serrulata
paspalum Paspalum dilatatum
broad-leaf paspalum Paspalum mandiocanum
edible passionfruit Passiflora edulis
corky passion flower Passiflora suberosa
white passion flower Passiflora subpeltata
Kikuyu grass Pennisetum clandestinum
inkweed Phytolacca octandra
common fireweed Senecio madagascariensis Class 2
easter cassia Senna pendula var. glabrata
smooth senna Senna septemtrionalis
common sida Sida rhombifolia
indian weed Sigesbeckia orientalis
giant devils fig Solanum chyrsotrichum

44 | P a g e
Common Name Scientific name Class
wild tobacco Solanum mauritianum
Singapore daisy Sphagneticola trilobata Class 3
cape honeysuckle Tecoma capensis
stinking Roger Targes minuta
yellow bells Tecoma stans Class 3
black-eyed Susan Thunbergia alata
Appendix 4
List of invasive fauna species in the planning area.
Common Name Scientific name Class Recorded in
cane toad Rhinella marina
non-
declared
Bonogin CA*
Tourmaline*
European red fox Vulpes vulpes class 2
Bonogin CA,
Wyangan VP *
Tourmaline Park *
wild dog Canis lupus class 2 Bonogin CA*
brown hare Lepus capensis
non-
declared Bonogin CA
house mouse Mus musculus
non-
declared Bonogin CA
Indian (common) myna Acridotheres tristis
non-
declared Davenport Park
spotted dove Streptopelia chinensis
non-
declared
Bonogin CA,
Davenport Park*
Wyangan VP*
feral cat Felis catus class 2 -
common Startling Sturnus vulgaris
non-
declared -
cattle Bos taurus
non-
declared -
* Recorded in this survey

Towers J Fauna Study for Bonogin Conservation Reserves Gold Coast QLD

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