Contents...Nature Conservation Values for biodiversity, education, social values, rare and endangered species/habitats and meets IUCN Category II criteria “National Park – Protected

Contents 1. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................... 1

2. STUDY AREA .............................................................................................................................. 1

2.1 Current land management ................................................................................................. 2

2.2 Surrounding and historical land use.................................................................................... 2

2.3 Regional biodiversity significance ....................................................................................... 2

3. AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE PLAN ........................................................................................... 5

4. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSETS .......................................................................................................... 6

4.1 Landform and soils ............................................................................................................. 6

4.2 Native vegetation communities .......................................................................................... 6

4.2.1 Coastal Dunes ............................................................................................................. 6

4.2.2. Samphire shrublands ................................................................................................ 10

4.2.3 Mangroves ............................................................................................................... 11

4.2.4 Introduced Grassland/Herbland................................................................................ 12

4.3 Significant Flora Species ................................................................................................... 15

4.4 Native Fauna .................................................................................................................... 16

4.4.1 Birds ......................................................................................................................... 16

4.4.2 Reptiles and Amphibians .......................................................................................... 18

4.4.3 Mammals ................................................................................................................. 21

4.4.5 Fish .......................................................................................................................... 22

4.5 Aboriginal Heritage .......................................................................................................... 22

5 Threats (management issues) .................................................................................................. 23

5.1 Invasive weeds ................................................................................................................. 23

5.2 Pest animals ..................................................................................................................... 24

5.3 Rubbish dumping/marine debris ...................................................................................... 25

5.4 Recreation activities ......................................................................................................... 25

5.5 Climate change ................................................................................................................ 25

6. Biodiversity management strategies ........................................................................................ 26

6.1 Biodiversity management objectives ................................................................................ 26

6.2 Management units ........................................................................................................... 26

6.3 Managing weeds .............................................................................................................. 26

6.4 Managing pest animals..................................................................................................... 27

6.5 Rubbish/debris removal ................................................................................................... 27

6.6 Managing use conflicts – people and recreation ............................................................... 28

6.7 Revegetation .................................................................................................................... 28

6.8 Other management concerns ........................................................................................... 28

7. Monitoring .............................................................................................................................. 35

7.1 Bushland Condition Monitoring ........................................................................................ 35

7.2 Photopoints ..................................................................................................................... 35

7.3 Plan implementation – progress reporting ....................................................................... 35

8 Biodiversity action plan ............................................................................................................ 37

9 References ............................................................................................................................... 45

Appendix 1: Plant species list ........................................................................................................... 47

Appendix 2: Bird species list ............................................................................................................... i

Appendix 3: Aboriginal Heritage Sites – Torrens Island ....................................................................... i

Appendix 4: Marine debris monitoring strategy datasheet ................................................................ v

Appendix 5: Weed control methods ..................................................................................................ix

Appendix 6: Photopoint monitoring ................................................................................................. 98

Appendix 7: Works record sheets .................................................................................................. 100

Document Information Client Adelaide & Mt Lofty Ranges Natural

Resources Management Board

Issue Date 30 May 2013

Version 3.0

Author Sarah Telfer

Title Ecologist

Signature

Verified by Tim Milne

Title Director

Signature

Document History Version Issue Date

1.0 27th September 2013

2.0 13th October 2013

3.0 30th May 2014

EAC – Ecological Evaluation Pty Ltd have prepared this report for the sole purposes of the Client for the specific purpose only for which it is supplied. We accept no liability for any direct or consequential loss arising from the transmission of this information to third parties. This report is current at the date of writing only and EAC – Ecological Evaluation Pty Ltd will not be responsible for informing of any future changes in circumstances which may affect the accuracy of the information contained in this report. EAC – Ecological Evaluation Pty Ltd does not offer or hold itself out as offering any advice relating to legal or regulatory implications. Certain assumptions have been made in the preparation of this report. We have assumed that all information and documents provided to us by the Client or as a result of a specific request or enquiry were complete, accurate and up-to-date. Where we have obtained information from a government register or database, we have assumed that the information is accurate. Where an assumption has been made, we have not made any independent investigations with respect to the matters the subject of that assumption. We are not aware of any reason why any of the assumptions are incorrect.

EAC- Ecological Evaluation Pty Ltd 5/26 Hack St Mount Barker, South Australia 5251 Telephone: (08) 8185 3225 [email protected]

E c o l o g i c a l E v a l u a t i o n

mailto:[email protected]

Adelaide & Mt Lofty NRM Board EAC

Torrens Island Biodiversity Action Plan Page 1

1. INTRODUCTION The purpose of this Biodiversity Action Plan is to assist managers in their efforts to protect and

conserve the coastal, estuarine and marine ecological values of Torrens Island Conservation Park.

The Plan aims to document the key biodiversity values and threats on Torrens Island and to prioritise

the management of the threats for effective biodiversity conservation.

This Biodiversity Action Plan will complement and reinforce activities that have been conducted on

Torrens Island to date, including weed control, introduced animal control and revegetation. On-

ground managers include the Adelaide & Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resource Management Board

(AMLR NRMB), SA Department of Environment, Water & Natural Resources (DEWNR) and Australian

Marine Wildlife Research & Rescue Organisation (AMWRRO). It is intended as a guide for

management over the next 5 years with actions prioritised to ensure that time, effort and funding is

spent appropriately to maximise conservation effort.

The Torrens Island Biodiversity Action Plan is intended to align with, and contribute to, the

objectives of the following strategies and plans:

The Draft Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Plan (2013)

which outlines the Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges NRM Board's investment priorities over a

three-year period. This includes the establishment of long-term goals and clearly defined

targets.

The Metropolitan Adelaide and Northern Coastal Action Plan 2009. The goal of this Plan is to

understand and facilitate the conservation, protection and maintenance of the region’s

natural coastal resources and to establish conservation priorities for places and areas within

the region.

The Regional Recovery Plan for Threatened Species and Ecological Communities of Adelaide

and the Mount Lofty Ranges 2009-2014.

2. STUDY AREA Torrens Island is located in the Port River, approximately 15km northwest of Adelaide. It does not sit

within a Council area, although it is within 1km of the City of Port Adelaide Enfield boundary.

Torrens Island Conservation Park is approximately 603ha in area and covers about three quarters of

the island. Other land uses on the island include the historic Torrens Island Quarantine Station (now

a state heritage listed site1) and two power stations -Torrens Island Power Station, operated by AGL,

and the Quarantine Power Station operated by Origin Energy.

Torrens Island is bounded by the Port River to the west, the Barker Inlet to the south and east and

the Section Bank mudflats to the north. These areas largely support tide dominated estuaries, with

low tide saline mudflats, mangroves and salt-marshes comprising a significant part of the area.

This Action Plan is for the areas of land on Torrens Island that form the Torrens Island Conservation

Park (Figure 1), including:

1 South Australian Heritage Register



Torrens Island Conservation Park – approximately 603ha in area; and

the recently acquired additions to the Conservation Park (Allotments 300 & 304 in D59977

and Sn 464, to the east of Garden Island) – approximately 28ha in area.

2.1 Current land management A number of State government agencies, non-government organisations, power companies and

community groups currently involved in the management of Torrens Island (inside and/or outside

the Park boundaries) include:

Adelaide & Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resource Management Board (statutory authority)

Department of Environment, Water & Natural Resources (statutory authority)

Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary (statutory authority)

Australian Marine Wildlife Research & Resource Organisation (non-government

organisation)

Friends of Torrens Island (non-government organisation/community group)

TruEnergy (leaseholder)

AGL (leaseholder)

Origin Energy (leaseholder)

2.2 Surrounding and historical land use The historic Torrens Island Quarantine Station (Lots 205 and 206) abuts the Conservation Park on the

north- western side of the island. It was established by the South Australian government in 1879 to

stop passengers from bringing diseases such as small pox into the State. It was used in more recent

times (until the 1980’s) as an animal quarantine facility. Several old buildings, a jetty and a cemetery

remain on the site, some of which are heritage listed2.

The Quarantine Power Station (Origin Energy), built in 2002 and expanded in 2009, is directly to the

south of the historic precinct and an avian quarantine facility is located in the eastern portion of this

area. The Torrens Island Power Station (AGL Energy) is located on the south-western end of the

island.

Sand mining to replenish beaches further south along the Adelaide coastline (i.e. Glenelg, Brighton,

etc) occurred on southern Torrens Island in the late 1980’s3.

2.3 Regional biodiversity significance Torrens Island is within an important natural area that extends from Light River to the Port River

Estuary. This area has been identified as meeting prime International Union for the Conservation of

Nature Conservation Values for biodiversity, education, social values, rare and endangered

species/habitats and meets IUCN Category II criteria “National Park – Protected Area”, managed

mainly for ecosystem protection and tourism.

The island is part of an 822ha ecosystem-unit which includes the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and the

Barker Inlet/St Kilda Aquatic Reserve (listed as a wetland of National Importance4) and supports a

number of vegetation communities, most notably mangroves, samphire and coastal dunes, which

2 SA Heritage Places Register 3 http://www.nationaltrust.org.au/Assets/6483/1/TorrensIslandSummary-2011-11-02.pdf



4 Australian Nature Conservation Agency 1996





provide important habitat for a range of native fauna species, including 69 bird species of

conservation significance5.

Torrens Island provides one of the very few areas of undeveloped coastline in the Port River estuary,

and its dense fringe of mangroves, comprising approximately 60% of the island, are very important

as they are important nursery habitat for fish species, assist movement of fish at high tide, provide

shelter and nesting sites for birds, provide a major role in the balance between erosion and

deposition of sediments along the coast and create clearer water. This environment in turn supports

the growing Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin population, which also uses this area for habitat6.

Torrens Island also supports large areas of samphire saltmarshes which provide high-tide feeding

and roosting areas for a wide range of bird species, including migratory species, as well as important

breeding habitat for resident shorebird species.

3. AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE PLAN The aim of the Biodiversity Action Plan for Torrens Island is primarily to address the following local

management issues and actions identified in the Metropolitan Adelaide and Northern Coastal Action

Plan (MANCAP) 2009:

Torrens Island Conservation Park does not have a management plan;

Torrens Island Conservation Park includes areas of high conservation priority within the

region; and

Undertake management plan process and action to protect high priority areas.

The objectives of the Biodiversity Action Plan for Torrens Island are to:

Provide the information needed to address the local management action/s identified in the

MANCAP;

Clearly identify priority issues relating to the management of remnant vegetation and

landforms within the study area;

Identify priority issues relating to public usage and any actions that are recommended to

ensure that human activity is managed in a sustainable manner; and

Identify and address other relevant natural resource management matters identified within

the study area during the course of the project.

The Plan is intended as a guide for specific and prioritised “on-ground” works over the next 5 years

with the aim being to maximise the conservation and rehabilitation of Torrens Island Conservation

Park and surrounding areas.

The Plan specifically deals with threats to biodiversity within the target area of the island, however

linkages and integration with other land uses and influencing processes on other parts of the island

are also addressed. The Plan also considers the strong community interest in Torrens Island and

supports the partnered work that the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resource

Management Board (AMLR NRMB) undertakes with the relevant stakeholders.

5 Tim Croft, Ornithologist, pers. comm. 2013 6 http://www.nationaltrust.org.au/Assets/6483/1/TorrensIslandSummary-2011-11-02.pdf



The preparation of the Action Plan has involved:

Review of previous biodiversity surveys and related studies;

Stakeholder consultation;

Field survey to map and record vegetation associations, plants of conservation significance,

weeds and other management issues;

Assessment of the biodiversity assets;

Prioritisation of biodiversity threats; and

Actions required to alleviate threats.

4. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSETS

4.1 Landform and soils Torrens Island is part of a low-lying coastal complex of tidal flats, dunes, swamps and sandy beaches,

backed by a gently sloping plain. Soils are described as grey non-cracking plastic clays, grey duplex

soils, whitish sands, grey calcareous loams and greyish calcareous sands7.

4.2 Native vegetation communities The vegetation of Torrens Island can be broadly categorised into coastal dune, samphire and

mangrove communities. These are described below and delineated in Figure 2. Plant lists in Section

4.1 are based upon field visits in July 2013. Note these species lists are based upon a once-off visit

only. A comprehensive list would require visiting the site on multiple occasions to take into account

seasonal and rainfall related variability.

4.2.1 Coastal Dunes

There are two vegetation associations found in the coastal dunes on Torrens Island. These are

described below:

Callitris gracilis, Acacia pycnantha +/- Allocasuarina verticillata Low open woodland over

Rhagodia candolleana ssp. candolleana. This community occurs on the north-western coast of

Torrens Island, directly to the north of the old Quarantine Station and covers an area of

approximately 6.7 ha (approximately 1% of the Park). It was once widespread on the adjacent

LeFevre Peninsula, however clearance for residential development and associated infrastructure has

meant that few remnants remain and species such as the Southern Cypress-pine (Callitris gracilis) is

now considered to be ’Uncommon’ in this region.

Table 1: Plant species present in the dune area to the north of the Quarantine Station

Species Name Common Name Conservation Status

Comment

AUS SA SL

Acacia cupularis Cup Wattle R Planted

Acacia longifolia ssp. sophorae Coastal Wattle N Acacia pycnantha Golden Wattle Planted & remnant

Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping Sheoak

7 NatureMaps, Dept Environment Water & Natural Resources, 2013




Comment

AUS SA SL

Atriplex cinerea Coast Saltbush Planted? Atriplex paludosa ssp. cordata Marsh Saltbush

Atriplex nummularia ssp. nummularia Old-man Saltbush T Planted

Calandrinia eremaea Dryland Purslane U

Callitris gracilis Southern Cypress Pine U

Chloris truncata Windmill Grass Planted

Carpobrotus rossii Native Pigface

Crassula colligata ssp. colligata

Crassula colorata Dense Crassula

Dianella brevicaulis Short-stem Flax-lily

Dodonaea viscosa ssp. spatulata Narrow-leaf Hop-bush Planted

Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa Ruby Saltbush

Ficinia nodosa Knobby Club-rush

Muehlenbeckia gunnii Coastal Climbing Lignum

Nitraria billardierei Nitre-bush

Pelargonium australe Australian Pelargonium U

Rhagodia candolleana ssp. candolleana Sea-berry Saltbush

Senecio pinnatifolius Variable Groundsel

Spinifex hirsutus Rolling Spinifex Planted & remnant

Suaeda australis Austral Seablite Threlkeldia diffusa Coast Bonefruit

Vittadinia cuneata Fuzzy New Holland Daisy

Wahlenbergia littoricola Coast Bluebell R

Weed species

*Ammophila arenaria Marram Grass

*Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper

*Avena barbata Wild Oat

*Brassica tournefortii Wild Turnip

*Bromus diandrus Great Brome

*Bromus madritensis Compact Brome

*Bromus sp. Brome

*Cakile maritima ssp. maritima Two-horned Sea Rocket

*Carpobrotus edulis Hottentot Fig

*Chondrilla juncea Skeleton Weed

*Conyza bonariensis Flax-leaf Fleabane

*Ehrharta calycina Perennial Veldt Grass

*Ehrharta longiflora Annual Veldt Grass

*Ehrharta villosa var. maxima Pyp Grass Much has been removed

*Erodium sp.

*Euphorbia paralias Sea Spurge

*Euphorbia terracina False Caper

*Galenia pubescens var. pubescens Coastal Galenia

*Gramineae sp.

*Hypochaeris glabra Smooth Cat's Ear

*Hypochaeris radicata Rough Cat's Ear

*Lagurus ovatus Hare's Tail Grass

*Leptospermum laevigatum Coast Tea-tree 2 x large trees

*Lolium sp. Ryegrass

*Lycium ferocissimum African Boxthorn Many of the larger bushes killed




Comment

AUS SA SL

*Moenchia erecta Erect Chickweed *Oenothera stricta ssp. stricta Common Evening

Primrose

*Oxalis pes-caprae Soursob

*Reichardia tingitana False Sowthistle

*Sonchus asper Rough Sow-thistle

*Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow-thistle

*Trifolium angustifolium Narrow-leaf Clover

*Urtica urens Small Nettle

*Vulpia bromoides Squirrel-tail Fescue

*Vulpia fasciculata Sand Fescue

*Vulpia myuros Fescue

*AUS = Australia EPBC Act 1999: CR = Critically Endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable SA = South Australia NPW Act 1972: E = Endangered, V = Vulnerable, R = Rare

SL = Southern Lofty Botanical Region:8 E=Endangered, T=Threatened, V=Vulnerable, R=Rare, K=status uncertain, but considered likely to be either rare, vulnerable or endangered, U=Uncommon, Q=Not yet assessed but flagged as being of possible significance, N=Common

Myoporum insulare Very low open woodland over Atriplex paludosa, Dianella brevicaulis, Ficinia

nodosa, Nitraria billardieri, +/- Dodonaea viscosa ssp. spatulata. This community occurs on the

northern end of Torrens Island on very low sandy dune areas which are surrounded by lower-lying

samphire areas and covers approximately 5 ha (less than 1% of the Park). Due to limited access, the

absence of rabbits and a concerted effort to remove weeds this community is relatively intact and

species such as the regionally Rare Coast Bluebell (Wahlenbergia littoricola) and Trailing Hemichroa

(Hemichroa pentrandra) and the Uncommon Australian Pelargonium (Pelargonium australe) and

Austral Trefoil (Lotus australis) are thriving and regenerating.

Table 2: Plant species present in the dune areas at the northern end of Torrens Island


AUS SA SL

Atriplex cinerea Coast Saltbush

Atriplex paludosa ssp. cordata Marsh Saltbush




Disphyma crassifolium ssp. clavellatum Round-leaf Pigface

Distichlis distichophylla Emu-grass N

Dodonaea viscosa ssp. spatulata Narrow-leaf Hop-bush


Frankenia pauciflora Southern Sea-heath

Hemichroa pentandra Trailing Hemichroa R


Lotus australis Austral Trefoil U

8

Definitions based on regional ratings obtained from Lang, P.J. & Kraehenbuehl, D.N. (2008). Plants of Particular

Conservation Significance in South Australia's Agricultural Regions. July 2008 update of unpublished database. Department

for Environment and Heritage.




AUS SA SL

Maireana oppositifolia Salt Bluebush


Myoporum insulare Common Boobialla



Phlegmatospermum eremaeum Spreading Cress

Puccinellia stricta var. stricta Australian Saltmarsh-grass


Sarcocornia quinqueflora Beaded Samphire


Tecticornia arbuscula Shrubby Samphire

Threlkeldia diffusa Coast Bonefruit


Wilsonia humilis var. humilis Silky Wilsonia U Weed species

*Asphodelus fistulosus Onion Weed


*Carpobrotus edulis





*Gomphocarpus cancellatus

*Gramineae sp.


*Limonium companyonis Sea-lavender

*Lycium ferocissimum African Boxthorn

*Mesembryanthemum crystallinum Common Iceplant

*Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum Slender Iceplant

*Oenothera stricta ssp. stricta Common Evening Primrose


*Plantago coronopus ssp. coronopus Bucks-horn Plantain

*Reichardia tingitana False Sowthistle *Sonchus asper Rough Sow-thistle


*Spergularia marina Salt Sand-spurrey

*Sporobulus virginicus Salt Couch





9






4.2.2. Samphire shrublands

There are two vegetation associations found in the samphire areas on Torrens Island, one

characteristic of the intertidal zone, and the other an ecotone between the dune and intertidal zone.

These are described below, and mapped on Figure 2.

Tecticornia arbuscula, Sarcocornia quinqueflora Low shrubland +/- T. halocnemoides +/- T. indica

ssp. +/- T. pergranulata. This salt marsh community occurs in the intertidal zone and is subject to

tidal inundation of varying frequency as well as winter flooding from rainfall. In areas of slightly

higher ground Atriplex paludosa and Suaeda australis become more prominent. Samphire covers

approximately 228 hectares or 36% of the Park.

Weed invasion in these areas is minimal as the substrate is very saline and alkaline, making it

unsuitable for their establishment10. Sea Lavender is scattered throughout these areas, while weeds

such as Soursob and Coastal Galenia tend to be confined to the built up edges, embankments and

roadsides.

Table 3 includes a list of species recorded as part of this project, as well as previous surveys.

Table 3: Plant species present in the samphire shrublands


AUS SA SL

Angianthus preissianus Salt Angianthus R

Apium annuum Annual Celery R


Austrostipa sp. Spear-grass

Avicennia marina ssp. marina Grey Mangrove


Centrolepis polygyna Wiry Centrolepis Cotula australis Common Cotula



Distichlis distichophylla Emu-grass N



Lawrencia squamata Thorny Lawrencia K







Samolus repens Creeping Brookweed U


Sarcocrnia blackiana Thick-head Samphire


Suaeda australis Austral Seablite

10 Vegetation Survey Torrens Island Quarantine Station and surrounds. Dept Planning, Transport & Infrastructure 2012/109.




AUS SA SL


Tecticornia flabelliformis Bead Samphire V V V

Tecticornia halocnemoides ssp. halocnemoides Grey Samphire

Tecticornia indica ssp. leiostachya Brown-head Samphire

Tecticornia pergranulata ssp. pergranulata Black-seed Samphire


Wilsonia humilis var. humilis Silky Wilsonia U

Wilsonia rotundifolia Round-leaf Wilsonia V

Weed species

*Bromus sp. Brome


*Gramineae sp.



*Medicago sp. Medic

*Moraea setifolia Thread Iris



*Parapholis incurva Curly Ryegrass *Plantago coronopus ssp. coronopus Bucks-horn Plantain

*Spergularia marina Salt Sand-spurrey

*Sporobolus virginicus Salt Couch

*Taraxacum officinale Dandelion

*Trifolium glomeratum Cluster Clover



Lawrencia squamata, Maireana oppositifolia Low shrubland with or without Atriplex paludosa,

Disphyma crassifolium, Carpobrotus rossii, Tecticornia arbuscula, Sarcocornia quinqueflora. This

community, at the northern end of Torrens Island, appears to be an ‘ecotone’ or transition zone

between the dune areas and samphire areas. It covers approximately 4.5 ha. It occurs on slightly

raised sand and comprises both samphire and coastal dune species, including Nitraria billardieri,

Ficinia nodosa, Senecio pinnatifolia, Frankenia pauciflora, Suaeda australis and Distichlis

distichophylla. Weeds are sparse and include Sea-lavender and Soursob.

4.2.3 Mangroves

Avicennia marina ssp. marina Low open forest over +/-Tecticornia sp., +/-Sarcocornia quinqueflora

shrubs. This community occurs on intertidal mudflats of tidal estuaries and muddy seashores and

extends inland along the tidal channels merging into the samphire shrublands at the landward limit

of the intertidal zone12. These areas typically have very low plant diversity with Avicennia marina

11




12 Croft et al, 2006.



commonly the only vascular plant species present13 . Approximately 374 ha or 60% of Torrens Island

Conservation Park is occupied by mangroves.

Point Grey

The small island at the northern-most point of Torrens Island, known as Point Grey, is predominantly

covered in mangrove forest, with a tiny slightly raised area in the centre of the island which supports

scattered Nitre Bush (Nitraria billardieri) and Austral Seablite (Suaeda australis). No weeds were

noted at Point Grey.

4.2.4 Introduced Grassland/Herbland

This area, which covers approximately 4.6 hectares, includes the newly acquired parcel to the east of

the historic Quarantine Station and a narrow band of degraded land adjacent the salt marshes. It

generally comprises non-native species with a few sand dune community species persisting, such as

Rhagodia candolleana, Dianella brevicaulis and Acacia pycnantha (this last species may be

regenerating from a seed source that has been previously planted). Tree and shrub plantings include

Blue Gum (Eucalyptus leucoxylon), Acacia spp. and a ‘grove’ of Swamp Oak (Casuarina glauca). Also

present are large mature Boxthorn which are scattered throughout, as well as regenerating

previously planted Swamp Oak.

The area, which is heavily infested with weeds such as Soursob, Perennial Veldt Grass, Wild Oats,

Cape Weed and Barley Grass, has been significantly modified with the presence of an artificial levee

bank. It has been used historically as a dumping area with rubbish including old water tanks,

corrugated iron, fencing wire, steel drums, concrete, timber off-cuts, etc.

This area could potentially be revegetated in the medium to long term.

13 Croft et al, 2006.







4.3 Significant Flora Species The following table lists plant species of conservation significance which have been recorded on

Torrens Island in the past and/or as part of this study (Appendix 1 includes a full list of species).

Table 4: List of native plant species of conservation significance

Species Common Name Conservation Status*

Recorded during this survey (2013)

Recorded - previous surveys/ opportune records14

AUS SA SL

Acacia cupularis Cup Wattle R

Adriana quadriipitarta Coast Bitter-bush U





Centrolepis cephalorormis ssp. cephaloformis

Cushion Centrolepis R K

Crassula exserta Large-fruit Crassula R R

Gahnia filum Thatching Grass R





Samolus repens Creeping Bindweed U

Tecticornia flabelliformis Bead Glasswort VU V V






Of note is the presence within the samphire community of Tecticornia flabelliformis (listed as

Vulnerable nationally and at a State level). This species generally occurs on periodically (but not

regularly) inundated depressions in saline areas16. The population of Tecticornia flabelliformis on

Torrens Island was surveyed in 201217. The species was found to occur as two disjunct populations

comprising 58 patches that contained approximately 111,000 plants covering an area of

approximately 2.2 hectares (see Figure 2 for locations).

14 BDBSA – Biological Database of South Australia, DEWNR; BCM – Bushland Condition Monitoring site (AGL land); AMWRRO records 15




16 Carter, 2010. 17 Delta Environmental Consulting, 2012.



Also scattered throughout the samphire community is Round-leaf Wilsonia (Wilsonia rotundifolia),

listed as Vulnerable in the Southern Lofty region.

4.4 Native Fauna

4.4.1 Birds

Torrens Island provides a safe haven for numerous local and migratory bird species. It is also a refuge for many local and sea bird species because of the restricted access to the Island. Birds, including Banded Stilts, Australian White Ducks, Sooty Oyster Catchers, Pelicans, Terns, Egrets, Herons and Sandpipers rely on this habitat for foraging and breeding18. The tidal mudflats provide significant habitat for wading birds covered under the ‘Japan- Australia Migratory Bird Agreement’ (JAMBA) and ‘China Australia Migratory Bird Agreement’ (CAMBA). The mangrove areas on Torrens Island provide one of the few breeding areas for the Little Egret and Rufous Night Heron in South Australia19. The following table lists bird species of conservation significance which have been recorded on

Torrens Island (Appendix 2 includes a full list of species).

Table 5: Birds of conservation significance observed and likely to be utilising Torrens Island as habitat

Common name Bird species Conservation status

AUS SA MLR

Australasian Bittern Botaurus poiciloptilus EN V V

Australasian Shoveler Anas rhynchotis R R

Australian Hobby Falco longipennis U U

Australian Pratincole Stilitia Isabella C R

Baillon’s Crake Porzana pusilla U R

Banded Stilt Cladorhynchus leucocephalus V V

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica R R

Black Falcon Falco subniger C U

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa R R

Blue Bonnet Northiella haematogaster C V

Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis R R

Blue-winged Parrot Neophema chrysostama V V

Brown Quail Coturnix ypsilophora V V

Brush Bronzewing Phaps elegans U U

Cattle Egret Ardea ibis M R R

Chestnut Teal Anas castanea U U

Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus C U

Collared Sparrowhawk Accipiter cirrhocephalus C U Common Sandpiper Actitus hypoleucos R R

Common Tern Sterna hirundo R R

Eastern Curlew Numenius madagascariensis V V

Eastern Reef Egret Egretta sacra M R V

Elegant Parrot Neophema elegans R K

Fairy Tern Sterna nereis VU E E

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus R R

Golden-headed Cisticola Cisticola exilis U V

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus R R

18 City of Port Adelaide Enfield, undated 19 City of Port Adelaide Enfield, undated.



Common name Bird species Conservation status

AUS SA MLR

Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris M R R

Greater Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii M R R

Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus leucopterus C U

Grey-tailed Tattler Tringa brevipes R R Hardhead Aythya australiasica U U

Hooded Robin Melanodryas cucullata cucullata R V

Intermediate Egret Ardea intermedia R R

Kelp Gull Larus dominicanus R R

Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus M R R

Lewin’s Rail Lewinia pectoralis V V

Little Eagle Hieraaetus morphnoides U U

Little Egret Egretta garzetta R R

Little Lorikeet Glossopsitta pusilla E E

Little Wattlebird Anthochaera chrysoptera U U

Long-toed Stint Calidris subminuta M R R

Musk Duck Biziura lobata R R

Nankeen Night Heron Nycticorax caledonicus U U

Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva R R

Pacific Gull Larus pacificus U U

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotus M R R

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus R R

Pied Oystercatcher Haematopus longirostris R R Purple-gaped Honeyeater Lichenostomus cratitius U

Red-capped Robin Petroica goodenovii C U

Rock Parrot Neophema petrophila R R

Royal Spoonbill Platalea regia U U

Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres M R R

Ruff Philomachus pugnax R R

Shining Bronze-Cuckoo Chrysocaccyx lucidus U U

Slender-billed Thornbill Acanthiza iredalei iredalei VU R

Sooty Oystercatcher Haematopus fuliginosus R V

Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater Acanthogenys rufogularis C U

Spotless Crake Porzana tabuensis R R

Spotted Pardalote Pardalotus punctatus punctatus U U

Terek Sandpiper Xenus cinerus R R

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus R R

Whistling Kite Haliaster sphenurus C U

White-browed Scrub-wren Sericonis frontalis C U

White-necked Heron Ardea pacifica U U

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus M O O

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola R R Zebra Finch Taeniopygia guttata C U AUS = Australia EPBC Act 1999: CR = Critically Endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable, M = Migratory

SA = South Australia NPW Act 1972: E = Endangered, V = Vulnerable, R = Rare MLR = Mount Lofty Ranges Bird Region: E=Endangered: rare and in danger of disappearing from the wild in the short term. V=Vulnerable: rare and in danger of disappearing from the wild in the long term. R=Rare: occurring infrequently, either locally abundant in a limited area or sparsely distributed over a wide area. K=status uncertain, but considered likely to be either rare, vulnerable or endangered. U (birds) =Uncommon: declining and inadequately conserved, but not yet rare or vulnerable. C (birds) =Common: not of particular importance20.

20 Definitions based on regional ratings obtained from Carpenter, G & Reid, J (2000) The Status of Native Birds in South Australia’s Agricultural Regions. Unpublished Database, 2000. Department for Environment & Heritage, South Australia.



Orange-bellied Parrot

Mention must also be made of the Orange-bellied Parrot - a species threatened with extinction21.

The species is also listed under the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the

Government of Japan for the Protection of Migratory Birds and Birds in Danger of Extinction (Japan-

Australia Migratory Bird Agreement or JAMBA).

Although the Orange-bellied Parrot (Neophema chrysogaster) has not been observed on the

Adelaide coastline in recent times, the samphire shrublands of the northern Adelaide coast, which

includes Torrens Island, provide suitable winter feeding habitat for this Critically Endangered

species22.

Protection and restoration of non-breeding habitat (winter and migration) is the primary focus of the

National Recovery Plan for the Orange-bellied Parrot23. Key management practices relevant to the

management of Torrens Island include effective reduction of introduced predators and competitors

and effective control of recreational activities at key sites.

4.4.2 Reptiles and Amphibians

Seventeen reptiles have been recorded from the Torrens Island area (Table 6). Two of these are Sea

Turtles, which do not nest on the island and would at most be misplaced vagrants in the waters

surrounding the Island. Most of the remaining fifteen species could possibly be present on Torrens

Island, with seven species having been recorded on the Island in the past. Most of the reptile

species require structure for shelter at the ground level, such as fallen timber, leaf litter, open shrub,

grass and groundcover understorey. Management actions need to ensure that these microhabitats

are retained or improved.

Table 6: Reptile species known from the Torrens Island area

Family 1 Family 2 Scientific Name Common Name MAN CAP24

ALA25

Rating Comments26

AUS SA

Cheloniidae Sea Turtles Chelonia mydas Green Turtle

V V

Sea Turtle which comes ashore to lay eggs. This species nests in tropical and subtropical areas27.

Cheloniidae Sea Turtles Lepidochelys olivacea

Olive Ridley Turtle

E

One record only, from June 2012 when a dead specimen was collected in Gulf St Vincent. This species generally confined to northern Australia.

Agamidae Dragon Lizards Amphibolurus muricatus

Jacky Lizard

R Likely to be spurious record: actual location of

21 See Appendix I - the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) 22 Draft AMLR NRM Plan (2013) 23 Dept Primary Industries & Water Hobart, 2006 24 Metropolitan Adelaide and Northern Coastal Action Plan, 2009 25 Australian Living Atlas 26 Dr Tim Milne, Herpetologist 27 Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (2013). Chelonia mydas — Green Turtle SPRAT Profile. http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=1765. Accessed 5/8/13.

http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-

http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-




ALA25

Rating Comments26

AUS SA

record maps in Gulf St Vincent. This species only other South Australian records are in the South East of the state.

Agamidae Dragon Lizards Ctenophorus pictus

Painted Dragon

This species is still found in sand dunes along the Adelaide coastline, but has not been recorded on Torrens Island.

Agamidae Dragon Lizards Pogona barbata Eastern Bearded Dragon

Semi-arboreal species. Has been observed on Torrens Island28.

Gekkonidae Typical Geckos Christinus marmoratus

Marbled Gecko Nocturnal gecko. Has been recorded from Torrens Island.

Pygopodidae Legless Lizards Aprasia striolata Lined Worm-lizard

Legless lizard, usually found sheltering under rocks, logs and other ground debris. May be present on Torrens Island.

Scincidae Skinks Hemiergis peronii Four-toed Earless Skink

Requires rocks, logs and natural ground debris for shelter. Has been recorded on Torrens Island.

Scincidae Skinks Lerista bougainvillii

Bougainville’s Skink

Requires rocks, logs and natural ground debris for shelter. Has been recorded on Torrens Island.

Scincidae Skinks Lerista dorsalis Four-toed Slider Requires rocks, logs and natural ground debris for shelter. Has been recorded on Torrens Island.

Scincidae Skinks Menetia greyii Dwarf Skink Small, active diurnal skink. Widespread across Australia. Has been recorded on Torrens Island.

Scincidae Skinks Morethia adelaidensis

Adelaide Snake-eye

Active diurnal skink, requiring ground litter and fallen timber. May be present on Torrens Island.

Scincidae Skinks Pseudemoia entrecasteauxii

Southern Grass Skink

Active diurnal skink, found “in a variety of forest and grassland habitats throughout its range; usually seen on or around fallen timber, or foraging in leaf litter. 29”

Scincidae Skinks Tiliqua rugosa Sleepy Lizard Widely distributed large

28 A. Machado, pers. comm., 2013. 29 Cogger, H.G. (1992). Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed Books, Chatswood.




ALA25

Rating Comments26

AUS SA

skink. Shelters under “fallen timber, leaf litter, spinifex and other grasses30”. Has been observed on Torrens Island31.

Scincidae Skinks Tiliqua scincoides Eastern Bluetongue

Widely distributed large skink. “Shelters at night in hollow logs, ground debris etc. 32” Has been observed on Torrens Island33

Elapidae Elapid Snakes Demansia psammophis

Yellow-faced Whipsnake

Not recorded from Torrens Island. Last nearby records are from the 1970s. Unlikely to be present on Torrens Island.

Elapidae Elapid Snakes Pseudonaja textilis Eastern Brown Snake

Common diurnal snake. It has been recorded on Torrens Island.

Rating codes: R = Rare; V = Vulnerable; E=Endangered; EX = Extinct

There are no records of amphibians from Torrens Island, but four species have been recorded within

a 5km radius of the extent of the Island. Given the close proximity of the sea to the site, and the lack

of freshwater pooling to allow eggs and tadpoles to mature, it is considered unlikely that any frogs

are present on Torrens Island. The two species that might possibly be present are the burrowing

species Neobatrachus pictus and Limnodynastes dumerilii.

Table 7: Frog species known from the Torrens Island area

Family 1 Family 2 Scientific Name Common Name MANCAP

ALA Rating Comments

AUS SA

Myobatrachidae Southern Frogs

Crinia signifera Common Froglet

Small frog, found in close proximity to fresh water.


Limnodynastes dumerilii

Banjo Frog

Burrowing frog, often found well away from freshwater bodies, but requires standing water to breed.


Limnodynastes tasmaniensis

Spotted Marsh Frog

Medium sized frog, found in close proximity to fresh water.


Neobatrachus pictus

Burrowing Frog

Burrowing frog, often found well away from freshwater bodies, but requires standing water to breed.

30 Cogger, H.G. (1992). Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed Books, Chatswood. 31 A. Machado, pers. comm., 2013. 32 Cogger, H.G. (1992). Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed Books, Chatswood. 33 A. Machado, pers. comm., 2013.




4.4.3 Mammals

There are no native terrestrial mammal records from Torrens Island, and only 3 species have been

recorded nearby, including the Extinct Mainland Tammar Wallaby. Bats may possibly be present,

using niches in trees for shelter. As discussed previously, the waters around Torrens Island provide

important Dolphin habitat. Key introduced terrestrial mammal species for management include the

Fox, Cat and Rabbit.

Table 8: Mammal species known from the Torrens Island area

Scientific Name Common Name MAN CAP

ALA Rating Comments

AUS SA

Marine Mammals

Arctocephalus forsteri Australian Fur Seal R

Arctocephalus tropicalis Sub-Antarctic Fur Seal V E

Delphinus delphis Short-beaked Common Dolphin

Eubalaena australis Southern Right Whale V

Hydrurga leptonyx Leopard Seal R

Megaptera novaeangliae Humpback Whale V V

Neophoca cinerea Australian Sea-lion V V

Physeter macrocephalus Sperm Whale R

Tursiops aduncus Indian Ocean Bottlenose Dolphin

Tursiops truncatus Bottlenose Dolphin

Terrestrial Mammals

*Felis catus Cat Still present on Torrens Island.

*Lepus capensis Brown Hare Likely to still be present on Torrens Island.

Hydromys chrysogaster Water-rat Lives within close proximity to permanent bodies of fresh or brackish water, and even on some beaches. This species is common along the River Torrens34. Has been observed on Torrens Island35.

Macropus eugenii Tammar Wallaby EX E Records from 1892. No longer present.

Macropus fuliginosus Western Grey Kangaroo Not recorded from Torrens Island

*Mus musculus House Mouse Recorded from Torrens Island.

* Oryctolagus cuniculus European Rabbit Not recorded on Torrens Island in recent times.

34 Turner, M. (2001). Conserving Adelaide’s Biodiversity Resources. Urban Forest Biodiversity Program, Adelaide. 35 Friends of Torrens Island, pers. comm. 2013



Bats

Tadarida australis White-striped Bat Has been sighted in Torrens Island Conservation Park36. Found in a wide variety of habitats.

Chalinolobus morio Chocolate Wattled Bat R Records from nearby localities. If present on Torrens Island, would be using small hollows and crevices in the larger tree species as habitat.


*denotes introduced species

4.4.4 Insects

The Bitter-bush Blue Butterfly (Theclinesthes albocincta) is found along Adelaide’s coastline and is

now considered to be very rare. The caterpillars rely upon the Coast Bitter-bush (Adriana

quadripartita), a plant that grows in the sub-coastal zone, especially in intact dune systems37.

Although not formally listed, the MANCAP identifies the need to progress habitat management for

butterfly conservation. This includes conserving Adriana quadripitarta, which occurs in the dune

vegetation on Torrens Island (although outside of the park).

As an intertidal waterway, the area also supports life forms that rely on sand marsh and saltbush

colonies, including a myriad of microorganisms and macroinvertebrates.

4.4.5 Fish

Torrens Island is part of a larger ecosystem unit which includes the Port River, Barker Inlet and Sand

Bank estuary, Mutton Cove to the west on the LeFevre Peninsula and the St Kilda Mangroves to the

north. The estuary contains the largest area of mangrove forest, shallow seagrasses and mudflats in

Gulf St Vincent. Sheltered conditions and good light penetration create very high levels of plant and

animal production making these prime contributors to the ecology of the gulf and major nursery

habitats for juvenile species of commercial fish and crustaceans, particularly juvenile Western King

Prawns and King George Whiting38.

4.5 Aboriginal Heritage Marine and estuarine areas were used extensively by the local Kaurna people, prior to European

settlement.

Prior to sand mining on the western side of Torrens Island in 1989, a stone hand axe and an

Aboriginal midden were discovered, immediately to the west of the area which was eventually

mined. The midden, which is outside of the Conservation Park, contained artefacts shaped from

glass and broken clay tobacco pipes, indicating that occupation of the site continued after European

36 Turner, M. (2001). Conserving Adelaide’s Biodiversity Resources. Urban Forest Biodiversity Program, Adelaide. 37http://www.butterflygardening.net.au/PDFs/factsheets/BitterbushBlue.pdf 38 Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board, 2008.



colonisation. After the discovery of the midden, a thorough survey of the island was undertaken,

but no other artefacts or middens were found elsewhere39.

The remains of almost 70 Kaurna people from the Port area have been reburied on Torrens Island.

The remains, held by the SA Museum in a warehouse at Netley, were transferred in December 2010,

to a site on conservation land north of the island’s heritage-listed quarantine station.

As part of this project a search of Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Division, Department of the

Premier and Cabinet (AARD ) sites was undertaken. There are eight (8) recorded archaeological sites

on Torrens Island – one is within the Conservation Park, whilst the other 7 are on land owned by AGL

on the south-western side of the Island. Appendix 3 shows the location of these sites.

5 Threats (management issues) Mangroves and salt marsh ecosystems are generally vulnerable to a number of threats including

tidal restrictions, coastal acid sulphate soils, sea level rise, nitrification, increased sedimentation, off-

road vehicle use, grazing, weed invasion, urban sprawl, land reclamation and freshwater flooding.

In Torrens Island Conservation Park and environs the management issues of particular concern in

terms of biodiversity conservation include:

Weed invasion;

Grazing and predation by pest animals (foxes, cats, rabbits, hares, rats, mice);

Marine debris/rubbish dumping;

Recreation activities such as fishing and kayaking; and

Climate change

5.1 Invasive weeds The diversity and structure of the native vegetation communities on Torrens Island, most notably

the fragile dune communities, is threatened by introduced weedy species and the following table

lists the weeds of concern in Torrens Island Conservation Park. A full list of weeds recorded is

included in Appendix 1.

Table 9: List of Priority Weeds for control

Species Common Name 40Declared 41WONS 42MANCAP Threat Level

43Red Alert Weed Rating

*Ammophila arenaria Marram Grass 3 3

*Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper Y Y 1 5

39 http://www.nationaltrust.org.au/Assets/6483/1/TorrensIslandSummary-2011-11-02.pdf 40Biosecurity SA Weeds and Pest Animals. Declared plants in South Australia, October 2012 http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/biosecuritysa/nrm_biosecurity/weeds/declared_plants_in_south_australia,_october_2012 41 Australian Weeds Committee (2012), Weeds of National Significance 2012. Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Canberra, ACT http://www.weeds.org.au/WoNS/ 42 Metropolitan and Northern Coastal Action Plan, AMLR Natural Resources Management Board 43 Refer to Croft, S.J., J.A. Pedler & T.I. Milne (2005 – 2008) Bushland Condition Monitoring Manual. Nature Conservation Society of SA Inc.

http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/biosecuritysa/nrm_biosecurity/weeds/declared_plants_in_south_australia,_october_2012

http://www.weeds.org.au/WoNS/



Species Common Name 40Declared 41WONS 42MANCAP Threat Level

43Red Alert Weed Rating

*Asphodelus fistulosus Onion Weed 3 2

*Carpobrotus edulis ssp. edulis Hotentot Fig 3 2

*Chondrilla juncea Skeleton Weed Y 2 2

*Ehrharta calycina Perrennial Veldt Grass 1 3

*Ehrharta longiflora Annual Veldt Grass - 2

*Ehrharta villosa var. maxima Pyp Grass 1 8

*Euphorbia paralias Sea Spurge 2 3

*Euphorbia terracina False Caper Y 2 3

*Galenia pubescens var.

pubescens

Coastal Galenia 2 -

*Gomphocarpus cancellatus Broad-leaf Cotton-bush 3 2

*Leptospermum laevigatum Coastal Tea-tree 2 3

*Limonium companyonis Sea-lavender 3 2

*Lycium ferocissium African Boxthorn Y Y 2 3

*Mesembryanthemum

crystallinum

Common Iceplant 2 -

*Oxalis pes-caprae Soursob Y 2 3

MANCAP Threat Levels: The threat value allocation process undertaken as part of the MANCAP identified a total of 187 priority environmental weeds for the Metropolitan Adelaide coastal region, each featuring a weed threat value between 1 and 9. Red Alert Weed Categories:

1 – Generally only invade disturbed bushland. Often widespread and abundant but not considered a significant threat to native biodiversity, unless present at very high densities. 2 - Generally only invade disturbed bushland, but may spread rapidly. However, generally only a slight potential to reduce native species diversity, unless present at very high densities. 3 – Invasive in intact bushland with moderate potential to reduce native species diversity. Rate of spread is slower than Category 4 and 5 weeds but once present will persist and threaten biodiversity. May produce dense stands over a wide area but can be controlled with sustained effort. 4 – Highly invasive in either disturbed or intact remnant bushland, with the potential to spread rapidly and produce very dense stands given favourable habitat and/or vectors. High potential to reduce native species diversity and abundance. Can be controlled with sustained effort. 5 – Highly invasive in either disturbed or intact bushland, spreads rapidly producing very dense stands and a blanket cover. Potential to eliminate almost all native understorey species. Very difficult to control without outside help.

5.2 Pest animals Foxes and cats Fox numbers are estimated to be high on Torrens Island and evidence (extensive footprints and

scats) was noted during the survey. Unwanted domestic cats are regularly dumped on Torrens

Island and are a problem around the Quarantine Station and the Torrens Island Power Station44.

Native fauna, and nesting birds in particular, are at risk of predation by foxes and cats. Foxes also spread weeds amongst native vegetation, increasing the risk of introducing weeds not currently present on Torrens Island. Rabbits and hares Rabbits and hares have exerted a significant grazing pressure on the natural regeneration of plants on Torrens Island in the past, however they do not appear to be a problem on the island at the

44 Aaron Machado, AMWRRO, pers. comm., July 2013



present time45 and no evidence of rabbits was recorded during the survey undertaken as part of this study. It is not known whether hares are active on the Island at this time, however vigilance is required to ensure that they do not establish in large numbers.

5.3 Rubbish dumping/marine debris Much rubbish/debris is either washed up or dumped on Torrens Island. This includes items such as fishing line, rope, plastic drink containers, plastic bags, old shoes, timber, etc. The build-up of rubbish poses a threat to the biodiversity assets of the area by inhibiting the growth of native flora species and endangering native fauna species, in particular nesting birds. Appendix 3 includes an example Marine Debris Monitoring Strategy datasheet provided by AMWRRO who regularly undertake the systematic collection and sorting of marine and other debris. The rubbish which has been historically dumped directly to the east of the old Quarantine Station has also reduced the biodiversity value of this area.

5.4 Recreation activities Due to limited access to Torrens Island, recreational activities are fairly minimal and are restricted largely to fishing, boating and kayaking with some people occasionally venturing into the dune and samphire vegetation. Activities which may have an impact on biodiversity include:

trampling or crushing vegetation when walking through dune areas;

compaction of soil which limits natural regeneration;

disturbance of soil and erosion which encourages weeds;

disturbing normal animal behaviour and breeding success, such as dogs chasing birds;

predation on native animals by domestic pets such as cats and dogs (which are not permitted in conservation parks);

the illegal dumping of rubbish; and

the wash up of marine debris.

5.5 Climate change It is expected that the current mean sea level rise of 3mm/year in the region will accelerate over the

next 50-100 years. Much of the eastern half of Torrens Island could be inundated, unless the rise is

offset by sedimentation within the saltmarsh areas. Such a scenario may have impacts on species

such as the nationally Vulnerable Tecticornia flabelliformis which is threatened by excessive and

prolonged flooding, especially given the apparent narrow ecotonal band occupied by the species. In

2012 it was found that many of the patches of T. flabelliformis in the more central sabkha population

comprised individual plants within large areas of Sarcocornia, and this area was being populated by

seedling and juvenile mangroves, suggesting that tidal inundation is becoming increasingly

frequent46. Conversely, draining or prolonged drought may dry out sites and lead to decline of this

species47.

45 Aaron Machado, AMWRRO, pers. comm., July 2013 46 Delta Environmental Consulting, 2012 47 Carter, 2010.



Sea level rises may also impact adversely on the nationally Threatened Orange-bellied Parrot which

relies on saltmarsh species such as Frankenia pauciflora during the mid-winter (non-breeding)

season48.

Increases in mean annual temperatures and a corresponding decrease in annual rainfall for coastal

areas are also forecast. Many saltmarsh species flourish in northern Spencer Gulf and rising mean

temperatures may not adversely impact on these species49.

6. Biodiversity management strategies

6.1 Biodiversity management objectives The biodiversity management objectives for Torrens Island Conservation Park are to manage the

native vegetation of the reserve in such a manner as to:

Prevent any further loss of biodiversity; and

Strengthen the long term viability of the existing biodiversity assets.

6.2 Management units To facilitate the ongoing management of threats to biodiversity on Torrens Island (most notably

weed and pest animal control), the park has been divided into management units. Delineation of

management units or zones is based largely on the type of vegetation present and the condition of

the vegetation. The management units are:

1. Coastal dune community – northern end of Torrens Island

2. Coastal dune community – north of the Quarantine Station (north-western coast)

3. Samphire shrublands

4. Introduced Herbland/Grassland

5. Mangroves

See Figure 3 for locations.

6.3 Managing weeds On-ground weed control work to date has been undertaken largely in the coastal dune vegetation

(Management Units 1 and 2). Targeted weeds in these areas are Boxthorn, Pyp Grass, Bridal

Creeper, Perennial Veldt Grass, Marram Grass, Coastal Tea-tree, Hottentot Fig, Cotton Bush, Onion

Weed and Coastal Galenia, and densities of many of these weeds have been significantly reduced.

However, further work is required to ensure that gains made are not lost and to encourage natural

regeneration wherever possible. Weed control should be undertaken using minimum impact

management techniques (Appendix 4), starting from areas of highest biodiversity and working

outwards.

Weed control within the extensive saltmarsh/samphire areas (Management Unit 3) is not considered

to be viable – Sea-lavender is scattered throughout, with weeds such as Soursob and Coastal Galenia

48 Orange-bellied Parrot Recovery Team, 2006. 49 MANCAP



confined to raised edges, for example adjacent roadsides. There are 1-2 mature Boxthorn in the

newly acquired parcel on the southern side of the Quarantine Power Station which should be

removed.

In Management Unit 4 it is recommended that the mature Boxthorn are controlled as they provide a

source of seed which can be spread by birds and foxes into the more intact dune areas to the north.

The Swamp Oak should be monitored to ensure that they do not spread into the dunes, however

this does not seem to be happening at this stage. There are also patches of garden escapes, notably

Chasmanthe and Agave which are small and could be readily controlled without too much effort at

this stage.

Weed control is not considered necessary in the mangroves (Management Unit 5) as these areas do

not support any weeds.

The table in Section 8 describes weed control strategies and priorities over the next 5 years.

On-going mapping of new weed infestations should also be undertaken as part of the weed control

program.

6.4 Managing pest animals Implementation of a fox and cat control program is seen as a high priority, due to the impact on the range of bird and reptile species that rely on Torrens Island for habitat. Shooting of foxes and feral cats is currently undertaken on an ad-hoc basis outside of the conservation park, mainly around the

quarantine and power stations 50.

Fox dens have been observed on AGL Energy land on the south-western side of Torrens Island. Fumigation/destruction of fox dens is time-consuming and labour-intensive, however if carried out at breeding time (late winter/spring), and in conjunction with a baiting program, can be effective in reducing numbers51.

A bi-annual fox baiting program, using 1080 baits, is a viable control option given the limited access to Torrens Island and the fact that domestic pets are not permitted within conservation parks. A baiting program is also a control option for feral cats and is less labour intensive and more cost effective than trapping52.

Monitoring for the presence of rabbits should be undertaken on an on-going basis, particularly if

foxes and cats are successfully controlled, with appropriate control techniques undertaken if they re-

colonise.

6.5 Rubbish/debris removal AMWRRO systematically collects, documents and removes rubbish and marine debris from Torrens

Island. FOTI also undertakes regular rubbish collection ‘working bees’ on the island. Further

50 Aaron Marchado, AMWRRO, pers. comm. July 2013. 51 Sharp, T & G. Saunders, 2004. Fumigation of fox dens using carbon monoxide, NSW Department of Primary Industries 52 Field trial to compare baiting efficacy of Eradicat® and Curiosity® baits, WA Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population & Communities (DSEWPaC), Department of Sustainability & Environment (DSE) & Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC).



support for such working bees and marine debris monitoring and collection by volunteers is one way

that the issue could be successfully managed.

Removal of the rubbish dumping area within Management Unit 4 is also highly recommended.

6.6 Managing use conflicts – people and recreation Management actions should be aimed at reducing the conflicts between the needs of people and

biodiversity within the park. It is recommended that interpretive and regulatory signage to inform

visitors about the biodiversity and cultural values of the park be installed at park access points, in

particular areas which are sensitive to foot traffic, soil compaction and erosion such as the dune

areas (Management Units 1 and 2).

6.7 Revegetation Revegetation efforts should focus upon supplementing existing habitat, using appropriate species

for the vegetation type and planting at appropriate (natural) densities. Supplementary planting

following weed removal, for example Spinifex infill planting to replace Pyp Grass, as is presently

occurring in the dune area to the north of the old Quarantine Station.

Table 10 provides a revegetation plant list which could be used as a guide. At this point in time

revegetation is only considered appropriate in Management Units 2 and 4 (dune community north of

the Quarantine Station and the highly modified areas to the east of the quarantine station).

Revegetation should aim to re-create an open woodland structure which comprises a tree canopy

cover of 10-30% with a shrubby and herbaceous/grassy understorey canopy cover of 30-70%.

Table 10: Revegetation plant list

Scientific name Common name

Acacia pycnantha Golden Wattle

Adriana quadripitarta Coast Bitter-bush


Austrodanthonia pilosa Velvet Wallaby-grass Austrodanthonia setacea Small-flower Wallaby-grass

Austrostipa drummondii Cottony Spear-grass

Austrostipa nodosa Tall Spear-grass

Callitris gracilis Southern Cypress-pine

Chloris truncata Windmill Grass


Dodonaea viscosa ssp. spatulata Sticky Hopbush

Kennedia prostrata Scarlet Runner

Spinifex hirsutus Rolling Spinifex

6.8 Other management concerns In addition to the issues described above, during consultation with FOTI and AMWRRO, undertaken

as part of this project, several other management issues were raised which do not necessarily impact

directly on the biodiversity of the Park, but are worth noting and are probably best addressed as part

of an over-arching management plan for Torrens Island. These issues include:

The feasibility of removing the high cyclone wire fence between the Quarantine Station and

the Conservation Park – this fence is now ‘surplus to requirements’ as the facility is no

longer used for quarantine purposes;



Research into the impacts of the mosquito control program which is regularly carried out by

the Department of Health;

The impact on migratory and other birds if the proposal to dry out the salt pans at Dry Creek

over the coming summer occurs – there is concern that this will place increased pressure on

Torrens Island as an important habitat;

The proposal to allow kite surfing around the Section Bank area; and

How to address the problem of vandalism, in particular in and around the Quarantine

Station.









Photographic Examples of Management Issues

Photo 1: Bridal Creeper in dune vegetation north of the Quarantine Station (Management Unit 2)

Photo 2: Evidence of foxes was noted throughout the dune communities (Management Units 1 & 2)

Photo 3: Rubbish dumping area and mature Boxthorn in Management Unit 4.

Photo 4: Example of marine debris which is continually washed up into the Samphire and Mangrove areas.

Photo 5: Spinifex revegetation, following Marram Grass control on the fore-dunes in Management Unit 2.

Photo 6: Vehicle tracks through the samphire community (Management Unit 3).





7. Monitoring

7.1 Bushland Condition Monitoring Three (3) Bushland Condition Monitoring (BCM)53 sites have been established in the dunes to the

north of the Quarantine Station (see Table 11 for GPS coordinates). These monitoring points aim to

show the change in vegetation structure, cover and condition over time as a result of weed control

works and revegetation efforts and may assist with grant application success in the future. A fourth

BCM site is situated on AGL owned land to the north of the Torrens Island Power Station (outside of

the conservation park).

Further BCM sites may be useful, for example in the dune vegetation at the northern end of Torrens

Island.

Table 11: GPS coordinates – BCM sites, Torrens Island

Bush Bids Site Easting Northing

TOR-TICP-A1 273194 6146812

TOR-TICP-A2 273367 6149247

TOR-TICP-A3 273238 6149132

TOR-TICP-A4 273292 6149490

7.2 Photopoints Simple, repeatable photo points could be used as a low cost alternative to demonstrate changes

over time. Appendix 5 provides further information on photopoint monitoring.

7.3 Plan implementation – progress reporting Progress reporting helps with the assessment of the effort put in to management actions. Some

efforts will be more successful than others. Various factors such as weather or control technique

may affect outcomes. Example Works Record sheets are included in Appendix 6.

53 Methodology developed by the Nature Conservation Society of SA





8 Biodiversity action plan The table below lists the biodiversity management threats/issues for Torrens Island Conservation Park, their related objectives, actions already taken to

address them, and further actions being proposed.

ISSUE/THREAT 5-Yr Objective Actions to date – what/ who Proposed actions- what/ where/how Priority (H, M, L)

Expected yr completion

Weeds (see Figures 4 & 5 for location of mapped weeds)

Boxthorn Eradicate from MU1, MU2, MU3 and MU4

Contractor –mapping of individuals; cutting & swabbing with Garlon; hand-pulling seedlings.

Cut & swab mapped individuals with Garlon. Spread out the cut material so it is not left in dense stands Chainsaw may be required for the larger bushes. Follow-up control may be required Continue patrol of entire area and map/control as necessary

H Ongoing but only new emergents from 2015 and eradication by 2017

Bridal Creeper Reduce infestations in MU2 by 80%

Contractor – spraying or wiping (Glyphosate 360g/L and Pulse) or intensive grubbing

In areas clear of native vegetation – spray with Glyphosate 360g/L and Pulse or grub Where Bridal Creeper is growing on/through native vegetation –pull individuals off native plants, cut leafy material back, carefully wipe (Glyphosate 360g/L and Pulse) and place/pin in a location where there will be no off-target damage.

H Ongoing – likely to continually emerge

Introduce Rust fungus M

Coastal Galenia Reduce infestations in MU1 and MU2 by 80%

Contractor – mapping. Grubbing/hand-pulling individual plants

Continue actions to date in the mapped zones, gradually working outwards into the remainder of the area. If grubbing causes too much damage to surrounding vegetation, then cut at base and swab the tap root.

M Ongoing – likely to continually emerge

Coastal Tea-tree Eradicated from MU2

Contractor – drilling and filling mature trees; hand-pulling seedlings

Drill and fill two large trees near south-western corner of dunes Leave mature dead trees standing for habitat Patrol & control emergent seedlings as required

M 2015

Cottonbush Eradicate from MU1

Contractor – grubbing/hand-pulling of scattered individual plants

Continue actions to date and monitor for new emergents H 2015 – but ongoing vigilance required

Evening Primrose

Reduce infestations in MU1 and MU2 by 80%

Contractor – hand-pulling of scattered individuals throughout

Continue actions to date and monitor for new emergents Bag and remove from site if seed is present

L Ongoing – likely to continually emerge





Hottentot Fig Eradicate from MU1 and MU2

Contractor – Mapping Spraying with Glyphosate 360g/L and Pulse, as well as grubbing, hand-pulling

Continue actions to date and monitor for new emergents Bag and remove from site if seed is present

M Ongoing infestation likely but only new emergents from 2015

Marram Grass Reduce infestations in MU2 by 80%

Contractor - strategic slashing, followed immediately by spraying or wiping with Glyphosate 360g/L

Continue actions to date and monitor for new emergence Do not control on fore-dunes - stay at least 10m back from fore-dunes to avoid erosion issues

M Ongoing – likely to continually emerge

Onion Weed Eradicate from MU1

Contractor – Mapping, grubbing, hand-pulling

Continue actions to date and monitor for new emergents L 2015 (but ongoing vigilance required)

Perennial Veldt Grass

Reduce infestations in MU1 and MU2 by 80%

Contractor – grubbing and strategic slashing, followed immediately by spraying or wiping with Glyphosate 360g/L

Continue actions to date and monitor for new emergence M Ongoing – likely to continually emerge

Pyp Grass Eradicate from MU2

Contractor – mapping, cutting and swabbing with Glyphosate 360g/L

Continue actions to date and monitor for new emergence H 2014 – but likely to continually emerge

Sea-lavender Reduce infestations in MU1, MU2 by 80%

Contractor – mapping of infestations in MU1 (2011)

Grub/hand-pull individual plants scattered throughout mapped zones (MU1), gradually working outwards into the remainder of the areas

L 2017 – likely to continually emerge

Pest animals

Foxes Reduce fox numbers by 80% across Torrens Island

AMWRRO – shooting outside of Park boundaries

Continue shooting outside the Park when foxes are observed H Ongoing

Map fox dens (both inside and outside Park boundaries) and fumigate as required

H

Undertake a baiting program (both inside and outside the Park boundaries) twice per year - late summer/early autumn and late winter/early spring Enlist the support of other stakeholders (eg AMWRRO, AGL, Origin Energy)

H

Feral Cats Reduce feral cat numbers by 80% across Torrens Island

AMWRRO – shooting outside of Park boundaries

Continue shooting outside the Park when cats are observed H Ongoing

Undertake a baiting program (both inside and outside the Park boundaries) on an annual basis, in conjunction with fox baiting Enlist the support of other stakeholders (eg AMWRRO, AGL, Origin Energy, FOTI)

H





Rabbits No rabbits on Torrens Island

AMWRRO – monitoring for signs of rabbits Continue to monitor for the presence of rabbits (eg live animals, warrens, dung heaps, scratchings, etc)

M Ongoing

Rubbish/debris removal

Scattered rubbish/marine debris

Reduce the amount in MU1 and MU2 by 80%

AMWRRO & FOTI – regular and systematic collection and recording of rubbish/marine debris

Continue with the regular and systematic collection and recording of rubbish/marine debris Enlist the support of other stakeholders, eg. Clean-Up Australia

H Ongoing

Rubbish dump Removal of all rubbish (MU4)

Nil Remove rubbish dump L 2017

Recreation – Negative impacts on biodiversity (trampling, disturbance to native fauna, erosion, rubbish dumping, etc)

Reduce the impact of visitors throughout the Park

DEWNR – “Torrens Island Conservation Park signs” in several locations

Install appropriate interpretive/regulatory signage at strategic locations to inform/educate visitors about the values of the Park and the regulations that apply

L 2017

Revegetation

Provide self-sustaining open woodland habitat in MU2

FOTI – scattered tree and shrub plantings throughout MU2 Contractor – planting and staking of Spinifex hirsutus in areas previously infested with Marram Grass

Continue revegetation works as appropriate, with densities and species appropriate for the habitat type Include Adriana quadripitarta (habitat for the Bitter-bush Blue Butterfly) See revegetation species list in Table 10

M 2017

Provide open woodland tree and shrub cover in MU4

Volunteers - scattered tree and shrub plantings

Commence revegetation works as appropriate, with densities and species appropriate for the habitat type.

Ongoing

Monitoring

Monitor progress and success of works

AMLR NRM Board – 2 Bushland Condition Monitoring (BCM) sites established in MU2

Repeat BCM sites (including photopoints) previously established in MU2

L Ongoing

Establish photopoints in other management units and repeat on an annual basis (Use Photopoint data sheet - Appendix 6)

M





undertaken Record details of works as they are undertaken (ensure contractors do the same) - Use works record sheets (Appendix 7)

H


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Page 45

9 References Adelaide & Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resource Management Board, 2008. Creating a Sustainable

Future: an integrated Natural Resources Management Plan for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty

Ranges.

Australian Weeds Committee (2012), Weeds of National Significance 2012. Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Canberra, ACT http://www.weeds.org.au/WoNS/ Biosecurity SA Weeds and Pest Animals. Declared plants in South Australia, October 2012 http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/biosecuritysa/nrm_biosecurity/weeds/declared_plants_in_south_australia,_october_2012 Biosecurity SA, 2013. Weed Control Handbook for Declared Plants in South Australia, PIRSA. Carpenter, G & Reid, J (2000) The Status of Native Birds in South Australia’s Agricultural Regions. Unpublished Database, 2000. Department for Environment & Heritage, South Australia. City of Onkaparinga, Native Vegetation Strategy 2010 –14, A Community Plan 2028 initiative. http://www.onkaparingacity.com/custom/files/docs/draft_native_vegetation_strategy_20102014.pdf

Carter, O. 2010. National Recovery Plan for the Bead Glasswort Tecticornia flabelliformis.

Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne.

City Port Adelaide Enfield, undated. State of the Environment Report: Coasts and Estuaries.

Croft, SJ, Pedler, JA & TI Milne 2006. Bushland Condition Monitoring Manual. Coastal Vegetation

Communities of the Southern Mt Lofty Ranges, Nature Conservation Society of South Australia.

Delta Environmental Consulting, 2012. Tecticornia flabelliformis of eastern Gulf St Vincent, South

Australia: Occurrence, threats, management options. Prepared for the Adelaide & Mount Lofty

Ranges Natural Resources Management Board.

Kraehenbuehl, DN, 1996. Pre-European Vegetation of Adelaide: A survey from the Gawler River to

Hallett Cove, Nature Conservation Society of South Australia.

Lang, P.J. & Kraehenbuehl, D.N. (2008). Plants of Particular Conservation Significance in South Australia's Agricultural Regions. July 2008 update of unpublished database. Department for Environment and Heritage.

Orange-bellied Parrot Recovery Team, 2006. National Recovery Plan for the Orange-bellied Parrot

(Neophema chrysogaster), Department of Primary Industries and Water (DPIW), Hobart.

Willson, A and Bignall, J 2008, Draft regional recovery plan for threatened species and ecological communities of Adelaide and the Mount Lofty Ranges, South Australia, Department for Environment and Heritage, South Australia.

http://www.weeds.org.au/WoNS/



http://www.onkaparingacity.com/custom/files/docs/draft_native_vegetation_strategy_20102014.pdf

http://www.onkaparingacity.com/custom/files/docs/draft_native_vegetation_strategy_20102014.pdf


Page 46

Appendix 1: Plant species list


i

Torrens Island Plant Species List

Species Name Common Name Conservation Status#

Source##

AUS SA SL BDBSA

AMWRRO

EAC

Acacia cupularis Cup Wattle R

Acacia leiophylla Coast Golden Wattle

Acacia ligulata Umbrella Bush K

Acacia longifolia ssp. sophorae Coastal Wattle N

Acacia pycnantha Golden Wattle

Adriana quadripartita Coast Bitter-bush U




Atriplex cinerea Coast Saltbush

Atriplex nummularia ssp. nummularia (planted)

Old-man Saltbush T

Atriplex paludosa Marsh Saltbush


Atriplex semibaccata Berry Saltbush

Atriplex suberecta Lagoon Saltbush

Austrodanthonia pilosa Velvet Wallaby-grass

Austrodanthonia setacea Small-flower Wallaby-grass

Austrodanthonia sp. Spear-grass

Austrostipa drummondii Cottony Spear-grass

Austrostipa nodosa Tall Spear-grass

Austrostipa sp. Spear-grass

Avicennia marina ssp. marina Grey Mangrove

Bolboschoenus caldwellii Salt Club-rush

Calandrinia calyptrata Pink Purslane




Centrolepis cephaloformis ssp. cephaloformis

Cushion Centrolepis R K

Centrolepis polygyna Wiry Centrolepis

Chloris truncata Windmill Grass

Clematis microphylla var. microphylla Old Man's Beard

Compositae sp. Daisy Family

Cotula australis Common Cotula


Crassula colorata Dense Crassula

Crassula exserta Large-fruit Crassula R R



Distichlis distichophylla Emu Grass

Dodonaea viscosa Sticky Hop-bush

Dodonaea viscosa ssp. spatulata Sticky Hop-bush


Enneapogon nigricans Black-head Grass


ii


Source##

AUS SA SL BDBSA

AMWRRO

EAC

Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (planted)

South Australian Blue Gum


Gahnia filum Thatching Grass R



Kennedia prostrata Scarlet Runner


Lepilaena cylindrocarpa Long-fruit Water-mat



Melaleuca halmaturorum Swamp Paper-bark V




Olearia axillaris Coast Daisy-bush


Phlegmatospermum eremaeum Spreading Cress



Samolus repens Creeping Brookweed U


Sarcocornia sp.

Senecio glossanthus Annual Groundsel

Senecio spanomerus Groundsel

Sonchus hydrophilus Native Sow-thistle

Spergularia marina Salt Sand-spurrey

Spinifex hirsutus Rolling Spinifex

Sporobolus virginicus Salt Couch

Suaeda australis Austral Seablite


Tecticornia flabelliformis Bead Samphire

Tecticornia indica ssp.bidens Brown-head Samphire

Tecticornia indica ssp. leiostachya Brown-head Samphire

Tecticornia pergranulata ssp.pergranulata

Black-head Samphire

Tecticornia sp. Samphire


Typha domingensis Narrow-leaf Bulrush

Vittadinia cuneata Fuzzy New Holland Daisy

Vittadinia sp. New Holland Daisy

Wahlenbergia communis Tufted Bluebell


Wahlenbergia multicaulis Tadgell’s Bluebell




iii


Source##

AUS SA SL BDBSA

AMWRRO

EAC

Introduced Species

*Ammophila arenaria Marram Grass

*Arctotheca calendula Cape Weed

*Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper

*Asphodelus fistulosus Onion Weed

*Aster subulatus Aster-weed

*Avena barbata Bearded Oat

*Avena sativa Cultivated Oat

*Brassica tournefortii Wild Turnip

*Bromus catharticus Prairie Grass

*Bromus diandrus Great Brome

*Bromus hordaceus Soft Brome

*Bromus madritensis Compact Brome

*Bromus rubens Red Brome


*Carpobrotus chilensis Angled Pigface

*Carpobrotus edulis Hottentot Fig

*Cerastium glomeratum Common Mouse-ear Chickweed


*Conyza bonariensis Flax-leaf Fleabane

*Cucumis myriocarpus Paddy Melon

*Cynodon dactylon Couch

*Digitaria sanguinalis Crab Grass

*Dittrichia graveolens Stinkweed

*Ecballium elaterium Squirting Cucumber


*Ehrharta villosa var. maxima Pyp Grass

*Euphorbia paralias Sea Spurge



*Galenia secunda Galenia

*Gomphocarpus cancellatus Broad-leaf Cotton-bush

*Hypochaeris glabra Smooth Cat's Ear


*Ficinia marginata Little Club-rush

*Lagurus ovatus Hare's Tail Grass

*Lamarckia aurea Toothbrush Grass

*Leptospermum laevigatum Coast Tea-tree


*Lolium sp. Ryegrass


*Medicago sp. Medic

*Medicago truncatula Barrel Medic

*Mesembryanthemum crystallinum Common Iceplant

*Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum Slender Iceplant

*Moenchia erecta Erect Chickweed

*Moraea setifolia Thread Iris


iv


Source##

AUS SA SL BDBSA

AMWRRO

EAC

*Nicotiana glauca Tree Tobacco


*Opuntia stricta Erect Prickly Pear


*Parapholis incurva Curly Ryegrass

*Plantago coronopus ssp. coronopus Bucks-horn Plantain

*Poa annua Winter Grass

*Polypogon maritimus Coast Beard-grass

*Polypogon monspeliensis Annual Beard-grass

*Reichardia tingitana False Sowthistle

*Rostraria cristata Annual Cat's-tail

*Schinus molle Pepper-tree

*Schismus barbatus Arabian Grass

*Senecio pterophorus African Daisy

*Sonchus asper Rough Sow-thistle


*Taraxacum officinale Dandelion

*Trifolium angustifolium Narrow-leaf Clover

*Trifolium glomeratum Cluster Clover

*Trifolium suffocatum Suffocated Clover



*Vulpia fasciculata Sand Fescue

*Vulpia myuros f. myuros Rat's-tail Fescue

#Conservation Status AUS = Australia EPBC Act 1999: CR = Critically Endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable

SA = South Australia NPW Act 1972: E = Endangered, V = Vulnerable, R = Rare

SL = Southern Lofty Botanical Region:54 E=Endangered, T=Threatened, V=Vulnerable, R=Rare, K=status uncertain, but

considered likely to be either rare, vulnerable or endangered, U=Uncommon, Q=Not yet assessed but flagged as being of

possible significance, N=Common

##Source BDBSA – Biological Database of South Australia –Torrens Island records

AMWRRO – AMWRRO Vegetation Survey in the area proposed for the Torrens Island Greenhouse Precinct, May 2005

EAC – Species recorded as part of this study

54

Definitions based on regional ratings obtained from Lang, P.J. & Kraehenbuehl, D.N. (2008). Plants of Particular Conservation

Significance in South Australia's Agricultural Regions. July 2008 update of unpublished database. Department for Environment and

Heritage.

Appendix 2: Bird species list


Torrens Island Biodiversity Action Plan i

Torrens Island Bird Species List

(List compiled from several sources, including Metropolitan Adelaide and Northern Coastal Action Plan and the Australian Living Atlas)

COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME CONSERVATION RATING

Comments*

EPBC SA ML

Australasian Bittern Botaurus poiciloptilus E V V More coastal reedy swamps, lagoons, rivers, so more likely fresher water. Feeds at night in shallow water on fish, frogs, crustaceans, invertebrates.

Australasian Grebe Tachybaptus novaehollandiae

C C Aquatic species. Any permanent water, but prefers freshwater. Rarely saltwater. Feeds on aquatic insects.

Australasian Shoveler Anas rhynchotis R R E & S Aust. Swamps and permanent water, preferring more undisturbed well vegetated freshwater areas. Occasionally coast. Filter feeder of shallow water or wet mud for invertebrates, crustaceans, water plants.

Australian Hobby Falco longipennis U U Widespread throughout Aust. Prefers open woodlands. Hunts small birds, but also at dusk bats and large moths.

Australian Magpie Gymnorhina tibicen C C Widespread Australia where trees and adjacent open areas, including urban parks and playing fields. Absent from forest and arid areas. Feeds on ground for insects, larvae.

Australian Pelican Pelecanus conspicillatus C C Found on larger open waters (fresh & salt) and shores. Breeds usually small islands in bays, Coorong etc. Not Torrens Is.

Australian Pratincole Stiltia isabella C R Mainly N E & SE Aust. Especially drier areas. Commonly found near water, in open inland plains, sparsely wooded plains and tussock grasslands. Feeds on insects, spiders and centipedes. Salt glands enables it to drink salt and freshwater.

Australian Reed-warbler Acrocephalus australis C Widespread Aust. Where dense vegetation alongside water, especially thick reed beds, tall crops, even bamboo. Feeds on insects.

Australian Shelduck Tadorna tadornoides C C Southern Aust. Prefers freshwater, rarely saltwater if near freshwater. Open grassy flats, swamps, lakes, rivers. Feeds on green grass, and less so on insects, algae, crustaceans.

Australian Spotted Crake Porzana fluminea C C E & S Aust. Prefers well-vegetated edges of fresh or saltwater, permanent or temporary wetlands. Usually found among dense plant growth such as saltbush, reeds, rushes, mangroves, thick grass, or dense shrubs. Feed on seeds, molluscs, insects, crustaceans and spiders, foraging on mudflats, in reed beds, shallow water.

Australian White Ibis Threskiornis molucca C C Nomadic. Widely distributed in wetter parts of Aust. Can be found in swamps, lagoons, floodplains, grasslands, urban parks and gardens. Feeds on terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, crustaceans and molluscs by probing mud.

Australian Wood Duck Chenonetta jubata C C Common and nomadic. Found grassland, urban parks, wetlands, flooded pasture, around farm dams, along coastal inlets and bays. Feeds on grasses and herbs. Rare on open water.

Baillon's Crake Porzana pusilla U R Cosmopolitan sp. Inhabits freshwater, brackish or saline marshy wetlands both inland and coastal,


Torrens Island Biodiversity Action Plan ii


Comments*

EPBC SA ML

with dense vegetation. Feeds on invertebrates, crustaceans, molluscs, small fish, frogs, some vegetation.

Banded Lapwing Vanellus tricolor E & S Aust. Open areas such as paddocks with sparse short grass, overgrazed or ploughed farmland, stony ground, bare dry mud at the edge of swamps, saline herbland. Feeds on invertebrates, worms, molluscs, and at times seeds.

Banded Stilt Cladorhynchus leucocephalus

V V Mainly inland & S Aust. Nomadic. Inhabit mostly saline and hypersaline water, typically large, open and shallow water of the inland and coast. Feed on crustaceans, molluscs, insects, vegetation, seeds and roots.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits estuarine mudflats, beaches and mangroves. They are common in coastal areas around Australia. Probes mud for molluscs, worms and aquatic insects.

Black Falcon Falco subniger C U Sparsely spread over mainland Aust. Prefers tree-lined watercourses (eg. River Murray) and tree clumps. Feeds mostly on birds, small mammals, reptiles, insects.

Black Swan Cygnus atratus C C Largely sedentary. Common on fresh and salt water, where-ever a wetland throughout Aust. Included estuaries and bays. Feeds on aquatic plants, and less so grazing on land.

Black-faced Cormorant Phalacrocorax fuscescens C C Strictly marine inshore bird breeding on rocky islands near coast, including Outer Harbour. Fishes by diving deep.

Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike

Coracina novaehollandiae C C Widespread Aust. Common in almost any wooded habitat including urban areas, except rainforests. Feeds on insects and other invertebrates ,at times fruits and seeds.

Black-fronted Dotterel Elseyornis melanops C C Widespread in Aust. Inhabits shallow margins of wetlands, lakes, rivers, sewage farms, storm drains and marshes, normally near freshwater. Rarer near coast. Feeds on small molluscs, also aquatic and terrestrial insects.

Black-shouldered Kite Elanus axillaris C C Common throughout mainland Aust., usually grassland, farms. roadsides and other open habitats, including coastal areas (eg. Torren Island). Feeds mainly on rodents including following mice plagues. Also insects such as grasshoppers.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits estuarine mudflats, beaches and mangroves. More common in coastal areas around Australia. Probe shallows of exposed mud for molluscs, worms and aquatic insects.

Black-tailed Native-hen Tribonyx ventralis C C Nomadic and widespread throughout mainland Aust. Found near permanent or ephemeral terrestrial wetlands in low rainfall areas, in both fresh or brackish water. feeds on seeds, plant material and insects in open ground near wetlands or water edge.

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus C C Cosmopolitan and widespread over mainland Aust. Prefers fresh and saline water, marshes, mudflats, and the shallow edges of lakes and rivers. Wades in shallow water for aquatic insects, but


Torrens Island Biodiversity Action Plan iii


Comments*

EPBC SA ML

also molluscs and crustaceans.

Blue Bonnet Northiella haematogaster C V Inhabits open woodland, scrub, riverine forest, spinifex, and farmlands in the eastern half of Aust. Nests in low-lying tree openings. Feeds native grasses and herbs, nectar.

Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis R R Sthn Aust. Almost entirely aquatic preferring deeper open freshwater lakes and dams. Feeds on water surface and by diving for aquatic insects and less so aquatic plants. Rare salty areas.

Blue-winged Parrot Neophema chrysostoma V V Mainly breed SE Aust. Disperses non-breeding. Found coastal, sub-coastal, inland areas to semi-arid zones. Favour grasslands and grassy woodlands often near wetlands. Feeds mainly on ground for grass and herb seeds.

Broad-tailed Sandpiper Limicola facinellus Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust inhabits mostly estuarine mudflats, saltmarshes, and reefs. Probes soft wet mud for crustaceans, worms, molluscs, seeds.

Brown Falcon Falco berigora C C Very common widespread species throughout Aust. Especially farms and grasslands of ag areas with tree or posts to rest on and observe prey. Hunt small mammals, reptiles, insects.

Brown Goshawk Accipiter fasciatus C C Widespread across Aust. Mostly in timbered habitat. Mostly hunt birds, but also take small mammals (rabbits), reptiles and insects.

Brown Quail Coturnix ypsilophora V V N & E Aust. Inhabits rank, overgrown grassy areas, often in damp, low-lying patches beside wetlands. Feeds on ground, mainly on seeds and green shoots, but also insects.

Brown Songlark Cinclorhamphus cruralis C C Widespread where grassland or crops, including open shrublands, Acacia scrub, open woodland. Benefited from ag. Feeds on ground on insects and some seeds.

Brown Thornbill Acanthiza pusilla C C Found E & SE Aust. Inhabit mostly dense shrubby areas including wet and dry forests, woodlands, shrublands, heath and rainforests, along watercourses. Mainly feeds on insects, at times seeds, nectar or fruit.

Brush Bronzewing Phaps elegans U U Found more towards the coast of E & sthn Australia (but not strictly a coastal sp.). Inhabits areas of dense shrub layer, including coastal dunes, but further inland woodland, forest, mallee with a good shrub layer. Feeds on seeds on ground. Usually builds fragile cup nest in shrubs.

Budgerigar Melopsittacus undulatus C C Found much of mainland Aust., mainly arid and semi-arid areas. But can be found in agricultural areas at times. Feed on seeds of native herbs and grasses.

Buff-rumped Thornbill Acanthiza reguloides australis

C C Found E & SE Aust. Inhabits eucalypt open forests and woodlands with grassy or shrubby understorey. Feeds on invertebrates

Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia Widespread around virtually the entire Australian coastline, and also along inland major rivers. Feed almost entirely on fish, by shallow plunging.

Cattle Egret Ardea ibis M R R Originally native to Africa, Europe, Asia, now naturalised to other continents. Found grasslands (pastures & crops), woodlands, wetlands. Partially migratory moving during winter. Feeds on


Torrens Island Biodiversity Action Plan iv


Comments*

EPBC SA ML

insects, particularly grasshoppers, but also frogs and lizards. Often follows cattle. Not common on Torrens Is.

Chestnut Teal Anas castanea U U E & S Aust. Stronghold of coastal wetlands and estuaries, tolerating highly saline water. Will also use freshwater lakes, reservoirs, sewerage ponds in the dry seaon. Mainly breeds coastal areas in hollow trees in water or short grasslands near water. Eats seeds, insects, some vegetation. Feeds on molluscs and crustaceans in more coastal habitats. Mainly feeds by dabbling at the water's edge during the rising tide. Good sp. for Torrens Island area.

Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus C U Widespread mainland Aust. but more likely inland open country. Feed on ground or in trees on grass seeds, nuts, berries. Nests tree hollows.

Collared Sparrowhawk Accipiter cirrhocephalus C U Widespread throughout Aust. Mostly hunt small birds in flight, or at dawn at their roosting sites. Also lizards, small mammals, insects

Common Bronzewing Phaps chalcoptera Widespread across Aust. Inhabiting almost every habitat type, except arid areas and rainforests. Feeds on ground on seeds and other vegetable matter.

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia C C Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. Widespread both on the coast and inland, in estuaries and mudflats, mangrove swamps and lagoons, and in billabongs, swamps, sewage farms and flooded crops. Feed on edges of mudflats and shallows on insects, worms, molluscs, small fish and crustaceans.

Common Sandpiper Actitus hypoleucos R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits coastal or inland wetlands, both saline or fresh. Found mainly on muddy edges or rocky shores. Feeds on small molluscs, aquatic and terrestrial insects.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits mainly coastal areas and offshore waters, ocean beaches, estuaries and large lakes. Feeds on small marine fish, also aquatic insects and crustaceans

Crested Pigeon Ocyphaps lophotes C C Once an inland bird that since European settlement is now widespread throughout mainland Aust., including urban areas. Prefers lightly wooded grasslands in both rural and urban areas, usually near drinking water. Feed on ground mostly on various seeds, and at times insects.

Crested Tern Thalasseus bergii Widespread around most of Australia coastline. Feeds mainly on small surface fish

Crimson Chat Epthianura tricolor C Found semi-arid and arid areas mainly dominated by open shrublands, dunes, plains or grasslands. Feed mostly on insects on or near ground.

Crimson Rosella Platycercus elegans C E Aust. Found in eucalypt woodlands & forest. Feeds on eucalypt, grass and shrub seeds, also insects. Nest tree hollows.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea C C Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits intertidal mudflats of estuaries,


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lagoons, mangroves, beaches, rocky shores, lakes, dams and floodwaters. Feeds on small marine invertebrates, especially worms.

Double-banded Plover Charadrius bicinctus C C Migratory sp. From NZ. In Aust. found on mudflats and estuaries, coastal beaches, sewage farms, river banks, fields, dunes, upland tussock grasses and shingle. Feeds on molluscs, crustaceans, insects, and occasionally seeds and fruit.

Dusky Moorhen Gallinula tenebrosa C C E & S Aust. Inhabits swamps, rivers, and artificial waterways. Prefers open water and margins with reeds, rushes and waterlilies. Also found grasses close to water such as parks, pastures and lawns. Feeds on algae, water plants and grasses, also as seeds, fruits, molluscs, invertebrates.

Eastern Curlew Numenius madagascariensis V V Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits intertidal mudflats and sandflats, seagrass beds, sheltered coasts, especially estuaries, mangrove swamps, bays, harbours and lagoons. Probes muddy flats mainly for small crabs and molluscs.

Eastern Great Egret Ardea modesta Widespread, cosmopolitan species. Found on a range of wetlands including lakes, rivers, swamps, estuaries, saltmarsh, intertidal flats. Usually feed in shallow water on fish, frogs, invertebrates etc.

Eastern Reef Egret Egretta sacra M R V Found on seashore beaches, tidal rivers, inlets, mangroves, and more usually rocky reefs. Not common southern Australia. Forages in shallow water for fish, crustaceans, molluscs. Quite rare for Torrens Is.

Elegant Parrot Neophema elegans R K Found Southern Aust. Feeds grass seeds on ground. Nests eucalypt tree hollows.

Eurasian Coot Fulica atra C C Cosmopolitan. Common in vegetated lagoons and swamps. Require submerged aquatic vegetation or mats of floating waterweed for foraging. Largely dive to feed on vegetable matter, supplemented with a few insects, worms and fish. Also forage on land and water surface.

Fairy Martin Petrochelidon ariel C C Widespread largely where open country near water, usually near its nest sites, in cliffs, culverts or bridges. Feeds high in the air on flying insects.

Fairy Tern Sterna nereis V E E Southern & W Australia coast. Inhabits isolated sandy inlets and along the coast, including beaches, inshore and offshore islands, sheltered inlets, sewage farms, harbours, estuaries and lagoons. It favours both fresh and saline wetlands and near-coastal terrestrial wetlands .Feeds almost entirely on fish.

Fan-tailed Cuckoo Cacomantis flabelliformis C C E & southern Aust. Where eucalypt forest, woodland, mallee, heath. Feeds on insects and larvae, especially hairy caterpillars.

Galah Eolophus rosiecapilla C C Now widespread through Aust. But formerly semi-arid areas. Spread into agricultural areas since European settlement. Prefers timbered habitat near water. Feed on seed on ground. Nests tree hollows.

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus R R Nomadic, following Australian rainfall events, but found along margins of rivers and swamps in


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summer. However more common in Nthn Aust. Than SA. Needs shallow water such as floodplains and mudflats, including mangroves. Feeds by probing mud on crustaceans, frogs, invertebrates.

Golden Whistler Pachycephala pectoralis fuliginosa C C E & southern Aust. Found almost any wooded habitat, including rainforest, forest, woodland, mallee. Feed on insects, spiders and at times berries.

Golden-headed Cisticola Cisticola exilis U V Widespread where sub-coastal areas with long, dense grass, such as wetlands, swamp margins, wet grasslands, rivers, and irrigated farmland. Feed on insects and seeds on ground amongst tall grasses.

Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo C C Cosmopolitan. Common & widespread distribution on inland freshwater and less so coastal estuaries and inlets. Breeding colonies on River Murray & Lakes. Dives for fish & crustaceans.

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus R R Aquatic species. Open fresh and salt water areas. Nomadic. Feeds on aquatic insects and fish.

Great Egret Ardea alba C C Widespread, cosmopolitan species. Found on a range of inland wetlands and and adjacent grasses, but also estuaries, intertidal flats. Usually feed in shallow water on fish, frogs, invertebrates, reptiles etc.

Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris M R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia found where coastal mudflats. Feeds in shallow water on invertebrates.

Greater Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii M R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Austrlia found on coastal tidal sandbanks. Feeds on insects and crustaceans.

Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus leucopterus C U Found E, S, W Aust. Inhabit a range of wooded habitats, especially drier areas. Prey on small birds, lizards and insects, and at times feed on fruits and seeds.

Grey Fantail Rhipidura fuliginosa C C Widespread Aust. in most treed habitats, especially wodland and forest. Not an urban bird in Adelaide. Feeds on flying insects.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. inhabits marine shores, inlets, estuaries and lagoons with large tidal mudflats or sandflats. Roosts sandy beaches. Feed on molluscs, insects, crustaceans, worms, and occasionally plants and seeds.

Grey Shrike-thrush Colluricincla harmonica C C Widespread Aust. except arid areas, but prefers woodland and forest. Feeds mostly on ground on a varied diet of insects, spiders, small mammals, frogs and lizards, and young birds and bird eggs.

Grey Teal Anas gracilis C C Widespread nomadic species, following rainfall events across the continent. Found in all sheltered watered areas. Feeds on grass, aquatic plants, seeds, crustaceans, invertebrates.

Grey-tailed Tattler Tringa brevipes R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. Inhabits sheltered coasts with reefs, rock platforms or intertidal mudflats. Feeds on worms, molluscs, crustaceans (especially small crabs), insects and, occasionally, fish.

Hardhead Aythya australasica U U Mostly freshwater wetlands and swamps, and less often sheltered estuaries. Dive for aquatic plants and molluscs. Would be rare at Torrens Is area.


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Hoary-headed Grebe Poliocephalus poliocephalus C C Aquatic species. Open fresh and salt water areas. Feeds on aquatic insects.

Hooded Robin Melanodryas cucullata cucullata R V Widespread, but more commonly SE Aust. Inhabit lightly timbered woodland, mainly dominated by Allocasuarina, acacia, eucalypts. Feed mainly on insects.

Horsfield's Bronze-cuckoo

Chalcites basalis C C Widespread where open wooded habitats with a range of understorey from grass to shrubs or heath. At times treed farmland. Mostly feeds on insects and their larvae, especially hairy caterpillars.

Inland Dotterel Peltohyas australis C Mainly inland semi-arid and arid zones of mainland Australia. Rarely coastal except EP & Nullarbor. Highly unusual here. Not likely or typical habitat.

Inland Thornbill Acanthiza apicalis C Widespread more an inland sp. Inhabits dry eucalypt and Callitris woodlands, mallee and acacia scrublands. Feeds on small insects, spiders, at times seeds.

Intermediate Egret Ardea intermedia R R Coastal and inland fresh and salt water wetlands including mangroves and tidal flats. Feeds on invertebrates, and also fish, frogs hunting in shallow water. Rare in SA & Torren Is area. More common northern Aust.

Kelp Gull Larus dominicanus R R Became established in Australia in the 1940s. Now found SE & SW coasts. Prefers sheltered bays, inlets and estuaries, and also beaches and reefs on off-shore islands. Feeds mainly on fish and crustaceans.

Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus M R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. Inhabits coastal area of intertidal sandflats or mudflats in sheltered bays, harbours. estuaries, and occasionally sandy ocean beaches, coral reefs, wave-cut rock platforms, rocky outcrops, saltmarsh, mangroves. Feed on invertebrates, molluscs, worms, crustaceans (especially crabs) and insects.

Lewin's Rail Lewinia pectoralis V V Widespread mainland Aust. Inhabits dense reeds and vegetation bordering many types of wetlands or crops, including sewage ponds and drainage channels. Feeds on crustaceans, molluscs, insects, seeds, fruit, frogs, carrion and refuse.

Little Black Cormorant Phalacrocorax sulcirostris C C Strictly aquatic. More common fresh than salt water, but can be found in sheltered coastal waters. Often resting jetties and rocks. Dives for fish, crustaceans, aquatic invertebrates.

Little Corella Cacatua sanguinea C C Widespread through Aust. Various habitats esp. watercourses. Feed on ground mostly on seeds and grain. Nests tree hollows.

Little Curlew Numenius minutus Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia more common N Aust. Inhabits coastal and inland grasslands, swamps and flooded areas. Feeds mostly on insects, as well as seeds and berries.

Little Eagle Hieraaetus morphnoides U U Widespread in Aust. Found open woodland and open forest, also open areas. Mostly hunt rabbits, but also small to medium-sized reptiles, birds and mammals, insects.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta R R Coastal and inland fresh and salt water wetlands including mangroves and tidal flats. Feeds on


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invertebrates, and also fish, frogs hunting in shallow water. Rare in SA & Torren Is area. More common northern Aust.

Little Grassbird Megalurus gramineus C C Widespread E & southern Aust. Inhabits more freshwater swamps, marshes, especially with reeds, also temporary wetlands after rains. Feeds on insects and arthropods. Nests in reeds.

Little Lorikeet Glossopsitta pusilla E E Found E Aust. Inhabiting open mostly eucalypt forests and woodland, lesser extent mallee. Feed on pollen and nectar. Nest hollow tree branches.

Little Pied Cormorant Microcarbo melanoleucos C C Widespread aquatic species. More common inland than coastal waters of almost any size, but also readily found on tidal waters. Dives for fish, crustaceans, aquatic invertebrates.

Little Raven Corvus mellori C C Found SE Aust. In forest, woodland, Acacia scrub, and into urban areas. Omnivorous feeder on carrion, insects, plants.

Little Wattlebird Anthochaera chrysoptera U U Found SE & SW Aust. Prefers drier and often scrubby habitats, such as banksia heaths, forests, woodlands and urban parks and gardens. Feeds mostly on nectar, but at times insects, flowers, berries, seeds.

Long-toed Stint Calidris subminuta M R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. Inhabits drying margins of shallow freshwater lakes and ponds, and less often beaches. Feeds on invertebrates by probing mud.

Magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca C C Widespread Aust. in many habitats with mud supply for nest building, including urban areas. Not found in deserts. Feeds mostly on ground on insects, larvae, earthworms and freshwater invertebrates. Mud nests built in trees.

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. inhabits fresh or brackish wetlands such as rivers, water meadows, sewage ponds, drains, lagoons and swamps. Feed by wading through shallow water on aquatic insects, larvae, molluscs and crustaceans.

Masked Lapwing Vanellus miles C C Widespread Australia & adjacent areas. Inhabits open areas of marshes, mudflats, beaches, grasslands, including urban areas. Feed on insects and larvae, earthworms.

Masked Woodswallow Artamus personatus C C Widespread in open woodlands. Feeds on flying insects on the wing, at times nectar.

Mistletoebird Dicaeum hirundinaceum C C Widespread mainland Aust. Wherever mistletoe found. Highly adapted to a diet of mistletoe berries.

Musk Duck Biziura lobata R R Found on most waters, freshwater or salt in southern Aust. But often freshwater fringed with reeds. Can be found in water just offshore along the coast. Feed by diving for aquatic invertebrates, fish, frogs, crustaceans, molluscs

Musk Lorikeet Glossopsitta concinna C C Found Southern Aust. Inhabits tall, open, eucalypt forest and woodlands. Feed mainly on eucalypt pollen and nectar. Nest hollow tree branches.

Nankeen Kestrel Falco cenchriodes C C Widespread in most of Aust. Especially lightly wooded and open agricultural areas. Mainly hunts


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small mammals, reptiles, small birds, insects. Prey is located from a perch or by hovering a short distance above the ground.

Nankeen Night Heron Nycticorax caledonicus U U Widespread in most of Australia, where well vegetated wetlands such as mangroves, tree-lined watercourses, swamps, lagoons. Breeds in area. Spends most of the day roosting, emerging at twilight. Feeds at night in shallow water on fish, frogs, crustaceans, invertebrates.

New Holland Honeyeater

Phylidonyris novaehollandiae

C C Found Southern Aust. Common in heath, forests, woodland and gardens. Feed mostly nectar, also fruit, insects and spiders.

Noisy Miner Manorina melanocephala C C Found E & SE Aust. Inhabits woodlands, open forests, urban parks and gardens. Feeds largely on nectar, fruits and insects.

Orange Chat Epthinaura aurifrons C Widespread, especially inland Aust., mostly absent from ag regions. Feeds on ground on insects.

Pacific Black Duck Anas superciliosa C C Very common widespread species. Found in all types of water, including tidal mudflats. Feeds on seeds and aquatic plants, supplemented by small crustaceans, molluscs and aquatic invertebrates.

Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits muddy, rocky and sandy wetlands, seashore, paddocks, saltmarsh, coastal golf courses, estuaries and lagoons. Feeds on molluscs, insects, worms, crustaceans, lizards, at times bird eggs and small fish

Pacific Gull Larus pacificus U U Found southern Aust. Coast, breeding on offshore islands. Prefers sandy, or less often, rocky coasts, also estuaries, bays and harbours. Forages along coasts between the high-water mark and shallow water on sandy beaches, feeding mainly on molluscs, fish, birds and other marine animals.

Pallid Cuckoo Cacomantis pallidus C C Widespread, where open forests and woodlands, also cleared and cultivated open country. Has a liking for hairy caterpillars, but will take other insects and their larvae.

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotus M R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits fresh and saltwater marshes, mudflats, or drying lakes and wet meadows. Feed on small crustaceans, aquatic invertebrates.

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus R R Cosmopolitan species, but uncommonly spread across Aust. For nesting prefers coastal and inland cliffs or open woodlands near water, and may even be found nesting on high city buildings (eg Adelaide Uni.). Feeds on small to medium birds especially feral pigeons in flight, rabbits on ground.

Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax varius C C Aquatic mostly coastal species, common on salt water in estuaries, bays, harbours etc., but less so freshwater. Dives for fish. Breeds coastal islands.

Pied Oystercatcher Haematopus longirostris R R Coastal areas throughout Aust. With mudflats, sandbanks and sandy ocean beaches. Less common along rocky or shingle coastlines. Feeds bivalve molluscs, also worms, crustaceans and insects.

Pink-eared Duck Malacorhynchus membranaceus C C Widespread and nomadic species. Prefers warm shallow temporary water with adjacent well timbered areas, although can congregate in open water. Filter feeds algae and invertebrates.

Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio C C Common E & S Aust. & Sth Pacific. Various wetlands. Feeds on soft shoots of reeds and rushes, bird


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eggs, frogs, snails.

Purple-crowned Lorikeet Glossopsitta porphyrocephala

More a mallee species of Southern Aust. Feeds on mallee blossums.

Purple-gaped Honeyeater

Lichenostomus cratitius U Found southern Aust. Inhabits mallee heath. Feeds largely on eucalypt and Banksia nectar, also insects.

Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus C C Found coastal and sub-coastal areas of N & E Aust. Habitat of treed areas, including woodland, forest, urban areas. Harvests nectar and pollen, also fruits, seeds and some insects. Usually nests in hollow eucalypt branches.

Red Knot Calidris canutus Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits on the coast in sandy estuaries with tidal mudflats

Red Wattlebird Anthochaera carunculata C C Found southern Aust. Inhabits forests, woodlands and urban gardens. Feeds largely on nectar, also insects.

Red-capped Plover Charadrius ruficapillus C C Widespread mainland Aust. Along coastline and arid areas. Nests on beaches. Prefers saline and brackish waters. Forages on mudflats, sandy beaches and salt marsh for molluscs, small crustaceans and some vegetation.

Red-capped Robin Petroica goodenovii C U More common in semi-arid or arid areas, but generally inland habitats with eucalypts, Acacia, Callitris woodlands. Forages on the ground or in low vegetation for insects and other invertebrates.

Red-kneed Dotterel Erythrogonys cinctus C C Widespread mainland Aust. More N areas. Inhabits wetlands, lagoons and swamps, preferring fresh water and areas prone to flooding. Feeds on aquatic insects, larvae and seeds.

Red-necked Avocet Revurvirostra novaehollandiae

C C Widespread in Aust. Prefers salt or brackish water, generally found in shallow water either fresh or salt, or estuarine mudflats. Feeds by wading in shallow water on aquatic insects, larvae, crustaceans and seeds.

Red-necked Stint Calidris ruficollis C C Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. Widespread around coast of Aust. mainland. In Aust. found on the coast, sheltered inlets, bays, lagoons, estuaries, intertidal mudflats, sandy or coralline shores. Also saltworks, sewage farms, saltmarsh, shallow wetlands including lakes, swamps, riverbanks, waterholes, bore drains, dams, soaks and pools in saltflats, flooded paddocks or damp grasslands. Omnivorous feeders mostly on mudflats, feeding on seeds, insects, small vertebrates, plants in saltmarshes, molluscs, gastropods and crustaceans.

Red-rumped Parrot Psephotus haematonotus C C SE Aust. Inhabits open grasslands or lightly timbered plains, also along watercourses, mallee areas where water available, urban areas. Largely feeds on ground on seeds, grass leaves. Also feed on seeds, fruits and flowers in trees. Nest usually hollow in eucalypt.

Richard's Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae C C Widespread. Inhabit open country, including grassland, wet heaths, dry shrublands and open


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woodland clearings. Feed on the ground on insects, larvae, seeds. Nest on ground.

Rock Parrot Neophema petrophila R R Found rocky coastline of S and W Aust. Inhabits and restricted to coastlines and offshore rocky islands, frequenting windswept coastal dunes, mangroves, saline swamps and rocky islets. Feeds on seeds, fruits of grasses, rushes, shrubs and salt-tolerant plants. Mostly nests on offshore Is in rock crevices, abandoned seabird nesting burrow, or on a rocky ledges. Not Torrens Is.

Royal Spoonbill Platalea regia U U Nomadic throughout N & E Aust. Found in fresh and salt wetlands, intertidal mudflats and wet grasslands. Feeds on fish (freshwater), shrimps (mudflats), but also aquatic insects, sweeping the shallow water with its bill.

Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres M R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. Widespread around coast of Aust. mainland. In Aust. inhabits mainly exposed rocks or reefs, often with shallow pools, also beaches. Feeds by turning over stones and seaweed to find insects, crustaceans, molluscs and spiders.

Ruff Philomachus pugnax R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia generally found on fresh, brackish or saline wetlands with exposed mudflats at the edges. Includes lakes, swamps, pools, lagoons, tidal rivers, swampy fields, floodlands, and occasionally sheltered coasts, harbours, estuaries, seashores, saltworks. Forages on exposed mudflats, in shallow water and occasionally on dry mud. In Aust omnivorous feeding on moss, plant fibre, seeds, annelids, molluscs, crustaceans, spiders, insects, fish and amphibians

Rufous Songlark Cinclorhamphus mathewsi C C Widespread inhabiting plains dominated by grass, including open woodland and Acacia scrub. Feeds on ground on seeds and insects.

Rufous Whistler Pachycephala rufiventris C C Widespread Aust. especially in areas with a shrubby cover (forests, woodlands and shrublands). Feeds on insects, and sometimes seeds, fruit or leaves, but rarely found on ground.

Sacred Kingfisher Todyramphos sancta C C Widespread Aust. near the coast (but not a coastal sp.). Inhabits woodlands, mangroves and forests. More a terrestrial hunter than fishing in water, it mainly feeds on crustaceans, reptiles, insects, larvae and at times fish.

Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Calidris acuminata C C Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. inhabits grassy edges of shallow inland freshwater wetlands. Also found around sewerage ponds, flooded fields, mudflats, mangroves, rocky shores and beaches. Forages shallow water for aquatic insects, larvae, worms, molluscs, crustaceans.

Shining Bronze-cuckoo Chrysococcyx lucidus U U E & southern Aust. Inhabit eucalypt forest and woodland. Feeds on insects, spiders, caterpillars.

Silver Gull Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae C C Any watered habitat, but especially the coast. Population greatly expanded since WW2. Feeds on worms, fish, insects and crustaceans, but is a successful scavenger, including refuse tips.

Silvereye Zosterops lateralis C C E & southern Australia Inhabit almost any wooded habitat, including orchards, urban parks and gardens. Feeds on insects, fruit and nectar.


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Singing Honeyeater Lichenostomus virescens C C Very widespread across Aust. Inhabits mostly open shrubland, low woodland, especially dominated by acacias. Feeds on nectar, insects and fruit.

Slender-billed Thornbill Acanthiza iredalei iredalei V R More likely rosinae of Gulf St Vincent area. Inhabits samphire. Feeds largely on insects.

Sooty Oystercatcher Haematopus fuliginosus R V Widespread coastal E & S Aust. Strictly coastal, usually forage along rocky or coral coasts, but sometimes also on adjacent sandy beaches. Feeds on molluscs, crustaceans, also at times marine worms, starfish and sea urchins, and small fish.

Southern Boobook Ninox novaeseelandiae C C Widespread in Aust. in various habitats. feeds mostly at night on on insects, small mammals (esp. mice). Mostly nest in tree hollows.

Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater

Acanthogenys rufogularis C U Widespread across Aust. Inhabits dry woodlands, mallee, acacia scrub, but more importantly for Torrens Is. coastal scrubs and occasionally mangroves .Feeds mainly on nectar, fruit, but may also eat insects, reptiles and baby birds.

Spotless Crake Porzana tabuensis R R Australia & S Pacific. Inhabits mangroves, marsh, saltmarsh, bogs, scrub. Feeds on insects and at times berries.

Spotted Harrier Circus assimilis C C Sparsely distributed, but widespread, its stronghold more the arid & semi-arid areas. Mostly open woodland. Hunts ground birds s(eg. quail and pipits), also mice, rats, rabbits and lizards.

Spotted Pardalote Pardalotus punctatus punctatus U U Found E & southern Aust. Found mostly in eucalypt forests and woodlands but can occur in parks and gardens with eucalypts. Forages in tree foliage for insects, especially psyllids.

Straw-necked Ibis Threskiornis spinicollis C C Nomadic following Aust. Rainfall events. Can be found in wet and dry grassland, pasture, crop, wetland margins. Rarely coastal shores, mudflats or mangroves. Mainly feeds on terrestrial invertebrates esp. grasshoppers, but also frogs etc.

Striated Pardalote Pardalotus striatus C C Widespread where treed habitats, especially eucalypts. Feed in the tree top foliage on a wide variety of insects and larvae.

Stubble Quail Coturnix pectoralis C C Ag. areas of southern Aust. Inhabits cereal crops, stubble and leafy crops, wet grasslands, coastal heaths, roadsides and neglected pastures. Feeds on seeds, green grasses, insects, caterpillars and small frogs.

Superb Fairy-wren Malurus cyaneus leggei C C Found E & SE Aust. Most habitats with lower dense shrub cover. Feed on invertebrates.

Swamp Harrier Circus approximans C C Widespread over Australasia. Mainly seen in fresh or salt wetlands, often in deep swamps with emergent reeds and over open water. Hunt for birds and eggs, large insects, frogs, reptiles and small mammals up to the size of hares or rabbits.

Terek Sandpiper Xenus cinereus R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits coast in mangrove swamps, tidal mudflats, seashore. Probe shallow water and soft wet intertidal mudflalts for crustaceans and insects.


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Tree Martin Petrochelidon nigricans C C Widespread Aust. where treed, as nests in tree hollows, but can use buildings and bridges as substitute nest sites. Hawks for insects above tree tops or at times the sea.

Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena C C Very widespread Aust. Distribution except forests and very arid areas. Includes city buildings, farmland, wetlands. Hawk for insects in flight.

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia, inhabits mainly coast, on tidal and estuarine mudflats, especially near mangroves. Feed on intertidal mudflats day and night, on worms, crustaceans, occasionally fish and nestling birds.

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus Found most regions of Aust. except arid zone. Prefers shallow terrestrial freshwater wetlands and swamps, brackish and saline lakes, floodwaters, sewage ponds, irrigated crops, large dams. Feed by hawking, dipping, or plunging mainly for small fish, amphibians, crustaceans, insects, larvae.

Whistling Kite Haliastur sphenurus C U Widespread over Aust. Found around mostly wetlands, but also woodlands and open country. Feeds mainly on carrion, but during the breeding season takes live prey, especially rabbits and hares, fish, reptiles, birds, small mammals and invertebrates.

White-browed Scrub-wren

Sericornis frontalis C U Found E and southern Australia in open forest, woodland and heaths. Feeds largely on invertebrates and at times some seeds.

White-faced Heron Egretta novaehollandiae C C Widespread, common on various wetlands large and small, around lakes, swamps, farm dams, tidal flats, salt marsh. Forages on various small aquatic animals (fish, invertebrates, frogs).

White-fronted Chat Epthinaura albifrons C C Widespread across southern Australia Common in salt marsh. Feed on insects.

White-fronted Tern Sterna striata Found SE coastal seas and exposed rocky coasts of Aust. (&NZ). Also less so on sheltered sandy beaches of bays, harbours, estuaries. Feeds on fish on or just below water surface.

White-necked Heron Ardea pacifica U U More likely found on inland Aust. freshwater rivers, swamps, it can migrate to the tidal coastal waters during drought. Wades through shallow water of grass feeding on fish, crustaceans, frods, insects.

White-plumed Honeyeater

Lichenostomus penicillatus C C Found E & S Aust. Inhabits open forests and woodlands (esp E. camaldulensis), often near water and wetlands, urban areas. Feeds on nectar, insects, lerps and honeydew. Nest an open cup, often in crown of tree.

White-winged Black Tern

Chlidonias leucopterus M O O Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia widespread inhabiting coastal and sub-coastal north, east, and south-east Aust. Found on tidal estuaries, lagoons, grassy swamps, and sewage ponds. Feeds by hawking, dipping and diving for insects, spiders and fish.

White-winged Fairy-wren

Malurus leucopterus C Largely found inland and semi-arid coastlines of mainland Australia, with chenopod shrublands. This includes margins of salt lakes, coastal inlets and saltfields.

Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys C C Widespread mainland Aust. Including urban areas. Mostly prefer open woodlands and forest.


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Actively hunt for insects on ground.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola R R Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia widespread inhabiting shallow freshwater wetlands, often with other waders. Prefer areas with emergent reeds and grass, surrounded by tall plants or dead trees. Feed on aquatic insects and larvae, molluscs in moist or dry mud.

Yellow-billed Spoonbill Platalea flavipes C C Nomadic throughout Aust. Mostly found shallow waters of freshwater wetlands such as dams, lagoons swamps, and more coastal areas. Feeds on aquatic invertebrates, sweeping the water with its bill.

Yellow-rumped Thornbill Acanthiza chrysorrhoa C C Found E & SE Aust. Found on ground in open habitats, such as woodlands, forests, shrublands, grasslands with some trees. Also common in agricultural areas, along watercourses, beside roads. Feeds largely on ground on insects, at times seeds.

Zebra Finch Taeniopygia guttata C U Widespread especially arid and semi-arid areas. Feed on ground on ripening grass seeds, also insects.

Conservation Ratings:

AUS=Australia SA=South Australia Region = Southern Lofty Botanical Region E=Endangered: rare and in danger of disappearing from the wild in the short term T=Threatened: likely to be either endangered or vulnerable but insufficient data for a more precise assessment. V=Vulnerable: rare and in danger of disappearing from the wild in the long term R=Rare: occurring infrequently, either locally abundant in a limited area or sparsely distributed over a wide area K=status uncertain, but considered likely to be either rare, vulnerable or endangered

U=Uncommon: less common species of interest but not rare enough to warrant special protective measures Q=Not yet assessed but flagged as being of possible significance N=Common: not of particular importance M=Migratory

*Provided by Tim Croft, Ornithologist, desktop assessment and expert opinion

Summer breeding colonies of Little Pied Cormorant, Little Egret, Nankeen Night Heron and Great Egret in the mangroves at Point Grey. (Source: Greg

Johnston pers. comm.)

Appendix 3: Aboriginal Heritage Sites – Torrens Island

Appendix 4: Marine debris monitoring strategy datasheet

Appendix 5: Weed control methods

Bushland weeding code

From: Robertson, M., Grant, I., Craigie, A.I. (2005) Stop Bushland Weeds: A Guide to Successful Weeding in South

Australia's Bushland. Nature Conservation Society of South Australia.

• Look before you weed—know where the native plants are.

• Choose the most effective and selective weeding technique for the plant and the location.

• Disturb soil as little as possible. Replace any disturbed soil, press it down and replace plant litter.

• Adapt to the season and weather conditions. Don’t pull or grub weeds when the soil is dry and roots break

off when pulled, or tramp through when soil is so soft that your feet damage plants at each step.

• Minimise the amount of trampling over the site and scatter the team of workers so that they do not form a

new trail. Wear soft soled shoes and clothes which do not carry weed seeds or drag on foliage. Wear gloves.

• Before you pull, grub or poison large weeds, pull the small weeds which are growing underneath them.

• Avoid damage to native plants. Don’t drop or fell large weeds onto native plants or drag boughs through the

bush.

• Remove from the bush any parts of weeds which could regrow: ripe fruits, seed heads, bulbs, rhizomes and

runners. Break up the rest into small pieces and leave them scattered to form mulch, especially over the

spots where weeds have been removed.

• Do follow up work before moving on to weed a new area.

• Remove weed seeds or bulbils which could scatter into the weeded zone.

• Where native plants are regenerating among dense weeds, clear them some growing space but do not

create large openings.

The following information has been adapted from a draft document, originally produced by the Bush Management

Advisors, SA Department for Environment and Heritage, as an Appendix to their own Management Action Plan Guide.

Weed Control Information

CONTENTS:

1 Weed Control – a Summary of Control Methods

2 Herbicides

2.1 Terms to Become Familiar With

2.2 Active Ingredients for Bushland Weed Control

1 Weed Control – a Summary of Control Methods

Always think about weed control as a long term project. Numerous follow-up treatments will be required before weeds

are fully eradicated.

To promote the replacement of weeds by native plants ensure you minimise the disturbance to existing native plants

and to the soil as you control the weeds.

Always start weed control work from the area of good bush and work towards the more degraded areas.

Where native animals are using the weed infestations as habitat, for instance the Southern Brown Bandicoot often

survives because of the protection afforded by dense thickets of Blackberry, remove those weeds slowly so that the

habitat can be replaced by native species. You don’t want to remove all of your native animals as you remove the weeds

from your property.

Consider the future of the site as the weeds are removed, in relation to soil erosion and slope stability.

Many weed control options involve the use of herbicides. Keep yourself, other people and your property safe. Use

herbicides only in accordance with the relevant recommendations (label, permits etc) and only treat weeds when they

are actively growing. Always use the recommended safety equipment and have water available for washing should

there be any herbicide contact with your skin.

Hand Pull Tools and Equipment: Gloves

Safety Equipment : None

Especially good for soft annual weeds and seedlings of woody weeds.

Firmly grip the stem of the weed near ground level and pull the root out of the ground.

Beware of back injury. Care must be taken to minimise soil disturbance by for example putting

one foot on the ground on either side of the weed to keep the surrounding soil from lifting up

and/or waiting until after rain when the soil is wet so the plant comes up more easily.

Digging or

Grubbing

Tools and Equipment : Narrow trowel, small grubbing tool (like a small mattock)

Safety Equipment : None

Especially useful for weeds with underground storage organs (lignotubers, bulbs etc) and

individual weeds in bushland areas.

Dig out the underground part of the weed and remove it from the site. The draw backs with

this method include the amount of soil disturbance which can promote the establishment of

other weeds at the site (this can be minimised by replacing the dislodged soil and leaf litter

after the weed is removed), and if not all of the underground parts are removed the weed

may resprout.

Cut and Swab Tools and Equipment : Cut using secateurs, loppers, a handsaw or chainsaw depending on

weed size. Herbicide application using a sponge-topped plastic

bottle similar to a shoe polish bottle.

Safety Equipment : Safety glasses, strong rubber gloves, water for washing

Especially useful for woody weeds.

Cut the stem(s) close to or at ground level. Keep the applicator sponge clean as contact with

the soil may inactivate the herbicide. Apply the herbicide to the cut stump as soon as possible

after cutting and definitely within 30 seconds. Systemic herbicides are used in this method

which move to and kill the roots of the weed. Stem Scape and Swab : If the underground

parts of the weed are extensive, more herbicide will be needed to kill it. In this case cut the

stems higher above the ground and after cutting, scrape off the outer layer (skin) of the

remaining part of the stem and apply herbicide to this area as well as to the cut.

Ringbark Tools and Equipment : Hatchet, machete, hand saw or chainsaw.

Safety Equipment : Safety glasses, gloves

Especially useful for pine trees.

As close to the ground as possible chop out a 2-5cm wide section of the bark and sap wood,

exposing the heart wood, to form a disk that completely encircles the tree. For pines, no

herbicide need be applied. For other weeds apply herbicide as per the Cut and Swab

information above. Ensure that when the tree dies and eventually falls that it will fall into safe

place.

Wipe On Tools and Equipment : Wick-wand, or ‘Tongs of Death’ and plastic squeeze bottle with a

long narrow tube coming out of the lid


Especially useful for strap-leaf species such as Watsonia in areas where they are surrounded by

native plants.

The herbicide is applied to the wick-wand or Tongs of Death (kitchen tongs with sponges

securely attached), and then the leaves of the weed are wiped. Both sides of the leaf should

be coated with herbicide.

Drill and Fill Tools and Equipment : Cordless/battery drill with 6mm drill bit. Plastic squeeze bottle with

a long narrow tube coming out of the lid.


Especially useful for larger woody weeds. The weed is left standing after the treatment,

minimising the control effort required and maximising the habitat value.

Clear any low branches away to allow good access to the base of the weed. Clear soil and leaf

litter away from the base of the stem. Drill a series of holes 5 – 10mm deep at a 45o angle (or

steeper if possible) into the base of the stem, or into the lignotuber if it is visible. A lignotuber

is a swollen part of the lower stem which is a type of storage organ. The holes should be drilled

2 - 4cm apart around the base. Fill the holes with herbicide as soon as possible after drilling.

Before leaving to start on another plant check the holes and refill them with herbicide. Frill

and Fill: A variation of the Drill and Fill method where a hatchet or machete is used to make

lots of horizontal cuts all around the base of the stem so that each cut can hold the herbicide.

Apply the herbicide as soon as possible after cutting.

Spot Spray Tools and Equipment : Hand-held spray bottle, backpack spray unit or vehicle mounted

spray unit

Safety Equipment : Safety glasses, mask or ventilator, strong rubber gloves, water for

washing, other equipment as specified on the herbicide label.

Especially useful for large infestations and/or where off target damage to native species (eg

spray drift) is unlikely.

It is very important to ensure you mix the herbicide to the correct dilution for the target weed,

as per the label instruction, or in some cases the Off-label Permit instructions. Check on the

label to see if a surfactant (also known as a wetting agent) or penetrant is recommended. The

weed must be in an active growing stage for the herbicide to work effectively. Ensure a good

cover of the herbicide on both sides of the leaves. To minimise off-target damage from spray

drift, adjust the nozzle to get droplets of the correct size to cover the leaf (not too small to

blow away between the nozzle and the leaf and not too big to dribble off the leaf once it hits),

use a shield over the spray nozzle and don’t spray on windy days. Don’t spray when rain is

expected (refer to the label for more details)

There are several issues when considering the spot spraying option. It is relatively easy to kill

large areas of weeds using this method. If you are working on a slope make sure you are not

going significantly increase soil erosion or instability. If there are native animals using the

weeds as habitat, what will happen to them? If the weeds are left standing, particularly for

dense prickly infestations, how will you get into them later to do the follow up work? How

much off-target damage is acceptable?

2 Herbicides

Herbicides are chemicals designed to kill plants. They can be a very effective weed control tool but they must be used at

the right concentration and carefully. The safety of people and of the environment must be the main consideration

when using them.

Before using herbicides it is recommended that you complete a basic Chemical Handling training session.

Always read the label on the herbicide container. It is a legal requirement that you act in accordance with the

instructions and information on the label, or in some cases, in accordance with the Off-label Permit for that herbicide as

issued by the Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicines Authority. Further information about a herbicide can be

found on it’s Material Data Safety Sheet, which is available at the point of sale or via the internet.

You must always follow the safety instructions closely and wear the recommended protective equipment when mixing

or using herbicides. Only use the herbicide at the dilution rate recommended for a particular species. Only mix up the

amount of herbicide that you will use in each weeding session.

2.1 Terms to Become Familiar With

Residual Remains active in the soil (anywhere from several weeks to 12 months or more) and is

absorbed into the plant via the root system. Herbicides that have long residual times in

the soil are generally not used for bushland weed control.

Toxicity The strength of a herbicide, and hence the level of risk involved in its use.

Systemic The herbicide is transported around the plant to the roots, which it kills, causing the

whole plant to die.

Non-systemic The herbicide only kills the part of the plant that it contacts. Also known as ‘Knockdown’

herbicides. Useful for the control of annual weeds.

Selective The herbicide kills some groups of plants but has little or no effect on others. Common

examples are ‘broad-leaf selective’ herbicides and ‘grass selective’ herbicides.

Non-selective The herbicide can kill all groups of plants.

Active Ingredient The ingredient in the herbicide that actually kills the plant. Don’t confuse this with the

brand name of a herbicide. The label on every brand of herbicide will show what active

ingredient(s) are present and in what concentrations.

Surfactant A herbicide additive like a strong detergent which assists the herbicide to stick onto the

plant thereby increasing the uptake of the active ingredient by the plant. Some brands of

herbicide already have a surfactant mixed in or will recommend that one be included

with the herbicide for use on a particular species. This information will be shown on the

label.

Penetrant A herbicide additive which assists the active ingredient to move into the plant. Some

brands of herbicide already have a penetrant mixed in or will recommend that one be

included with the herbicide for use on a particular species. This information will be

shown on the label. In most cases the use of additional penetrants is not recommended

for bushland weed control and should only be used with great care.

2.2 Active Ingredients for Bushland Weed Control

Most herbicide use recommended for bushland weed control is based around one or the other of two active ingredients,

Glyphosate and Triclopyr.

Glyphosate Low toxicity

Residual (in some cases)

Systemic

Non-selective

However some plants are more sensitive than others depending upon the

concentration, method of application, growth stage and vigour of the plant, and the

presence of surfactants.

Where the use of the active ingredient Glyphosate is recommended in this plan, use a

herbicide brand where Glyphosate is the only active ingredient and is present at a

concentration of 360 grams / litre.

Triclopyr Moderate toxicity

Residual in the soil for up to six weeks

Systemic

Broad-leaf selective – (it does not effect grasses).

Where the use of the active ingredient Triclopry is recommended in this plan, use a

herbicide brand where Triclopyr is the only active ingredient and is present at a

concentration of 600 grams / litre.

The use of Triclopyr diluted with diesel for Cut and Swab application in bushland is

allowed by way of a Permit issued by the Australian Pesticide and Veterinary

Medicines Authority – Permit Number PER8897, for the herbicide brand Garlon 600.

The permit is valid until 30 May 2011.

Due to its toxicity level and residual effect, it is recommended that landowners either

get licensed contractors to complete treatments using Triclopyr, or complete a

Chemical Handling training course themselves before using it.

Appendix 6: Photopoint monitoring

Photopoint Monitoring (adapted from DEWNR’s Native Vegetation & Biodiversity Unit – BushRAT

methodology)

1. PHOTOPOINT RECORD SHEET - instructions

Your photopoint locations may have already been established for you – however, if they are

not permanently marked with a stake you will need to relocate them using a GPS unit and a

combination of the photo that was taken and the recorded photo direction. You can then

permanently mark them if you wish.

If not yet established, select at least one site per Vegetation Association, preferably at

locations where you will expect to observe significant changes, either in the short term (e.g.

through woody weed removal) or longer term (e.g. through revegetation).

The “camera point” is where you take the photo from, the “target point” is where you aim

the camera. Either or both can be marked 10m apart with a survey peg, or could be a

designated tree, fence post or other permanent feature. You could also mark the site

(approximately) on one of the maps in your Management Plan

Record details in the table below.

Take photos a minimum of once each year, preferably at the same time(s) each year.

Photos should be accompanied by notes that will provide further information, such as the

names of plants in the photographs (as these may not be able to be determined from the

photos alone) and possible explanations for why a photo differs from the last one (e.g.

drought year). Enter these additional details/observations into the table. Other

observations that could be recorded to help document and/or explain changes occurring at

the site may include things like:

Improved condition of the native vegetation compared to that shown in the

original photos.

Natural regeneration of native plant species eg. native grasses and wattle

seedlings.

The appearance (natural regeneration) of plant species not previously recorded.

Accumulation of leaf litter and fallen timber which show signs of increased

insect activity and decomposition.

Re-establishment of a moss or lichen crust.

MANAGEMENT UNIT: ______ Year:

Vegetation

Assocation/Site

Photopoint

Location

Photo taken by: Direction

camera

point to

target

point

Distance

camera

point to

target

point

Date Notes/Observations

2. PHOTOGRAPHS (or submit hard copies)

Appendix 7: Works record sheets

WORKS RECORD (adapted from DEWNR’s Native Vegetation & Biodiversity Unit – BushRAT methodolgy)

All Threats/Management Issues identified as requiring action (as per the Biodiversity Action Table) are listed

below. Only some of these will have had actions proposed for this past year. Please fill in the table for these

actions and write N/A next to those that did not require action in this past 12-month period.

Management Unit______________ Year _____ Date that you are filling in this form __________

WEEDS

Common Name

Actions undertaken this calendar year These may or may not correspond with the actions you proposed at the start of the year. If you did not propose any actions for this Management Issue this year, write N/A.

Status of infestation(s) State whether the infestations have increased significantly, increased slightly, decreased significantly, decreased slightly, or remained the same since this time last year. State this for all weeds, including those that you did not work on this past year.

Changes to the vegetation,

fauna or other features

Have you noticed any changes to the

vegetation, fauna or other features of the

site in the vicinity of your works? This

may include an increase in regeneration of

plants, new bird species seen in the area,

increase in leaf litter, etc., Do you think

these changes are a result of your works or

other environmental factors?

Bridal

Creeper

infestation

Spot-sprayed using

glyphosate 360g/L at

1:100. It took us 4 hours

(2 people x 2 hrs).

All Bridal Creeper populations

in Management Unit 2 appear

to have remained at the same

level. The sprayed population

will hopefully have decreased

in extent/vigour.

There was good regeneration

of Golden Wattles this year,

despite the Bridal Creeper. This

was possibly a response to last

year’s hot Summer followed by

good rains leading to good

seed germination.

PEST ANIMALS

Pest threat

or issue

Actions undertaken

this calendar year

These may or may not correspond

with the actions you proposed at

the start of the year. If you did

not propose any actions for this

Management Issue this year,

write N/A.

Status of pest issue

State whether the pest species or erosion

area has increased significantly,

increased slightly, decreased

significantly, decreased slightly, or

remained the same since this time last

year. State this for all pests/erosion

issues, including those that you did not

work on this past year.

Changes to the vegetation,

fauna or other features


vegetation, fauna or other features of the

site in the vicinity of your works? This

may include an increase in regeneration

of plants, new bird species seen in the

area, increase in leaf litter, etc., Do you

think these changes are a result of your

works or other environmental factors? Foxes

Fumigated all dens using

….. It took us 2 full adys

with 2 people.

VEGETATION REGENERATION/ REVEGETATION

Type of

regeneration/reveg

etation issue

Actions undertaken this

calendar year

These may or may not correspond with

the actions you proposed at the start of

the year. If you did not propose any

actions for this Management Issue

this year, write N/A.

Status of

regeneration/

revegetation issue

Describe the current

extent/status/of the issue.

Has it improved since last

year?

Changes to the

vegetation, fauna or other

features


vegetation, fauna or other features of

the site in the areas where this

threat/issue occurs? This may include

an increase in regeneration of plants,

increase in tree dieback, new bird

species seen in the area, increase in

leaf litter, etc., and does not have to

be a result of your works.

Poor vegetation

structure (lack of

groundcover plants)

We fenced and removed

grazing stock as required in

our clearance Decision

Notification. The constructed

fence is 2.3km long and is a

post and dropper, 5 wire (2

barb) fence).

Vegetation structure

has improved, but we

are yet to clarify how

much of this new

growth is native. It

would seem that the

fencing has already

led to positive

changes since last

year.

As already mentioned,

there have been changes

to the vegetation structure.

It also seems that there are

different types of plants

emerging. We have seen

new species of birds in the

site (Red-browed Finch,

Red-rumped Parrot) that

are eating the grass seeds

of the new plants.

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