SUPERSEDED Compiled Approved Plans for OPW20-0145 05

                     4.5. Releasing Captured Fauna

                     When releasing animals away from disturbed habitat, attention must be paid to several factors,
                     including weather conditions, seasonal conditions and the animal’s ecology. More partially the
                     animal should be released:

                          • Into suitable Habitat with an adequate food supply
                          • In appropriate weather, season and time of day. This is particularly important for migratory
                             species.
                          • Under circumstances which will not cause additional stress, such as extreme weather
                             conditions, the wrong time of day (i.e. nocturnal species)
                          • In the appropriate social group. Some animals fare better if released into social groups.
                          • Within 1km of the site as per DES guidelines.

                     Fauna should be released at a suitable time of day, in a protected location close to the site. Data
                     should be recorded and kept on all fauna species trapped and relocated in accordance with DES
                     guidelines under the Rehabilitation Permit issued to AWEC. If situations occur where animals can
                     be re-released on the clearing site once clearing is complete the following criteria must be
                     followed:

                          • Sufficient habitat is retained on site to support the animal’s required niche, considering
                             factors such as: vulnerability to predation; availability of nesting sites, hollows or
                             microhabitats and the availability of water and sufficient food sources.
                          • Habitat corridors retained are of a suitable size, topography and vegetation cover to
                             provide effective routes for normal ecological processes such as immigration, emigration,
                             recruitment and dispersal.
                          • Habitat blocks and corridors are of sufficient size to maintain ecological integrity and
                             effectiveness, considering likely edge effects.
                          • Long term risk factors to individual and population survival associated with the
                             development have been (or will be) adequately managed or mitigated. For example:
                             domestic animal control, motor vehicle/road impacts, swimming pool risk.


                     4.6. Injures & Euthanasia

                     Euthanasia is sometimes required to alleviate any pain or suffering of an injured captured animal
                     that is not capable of recovering to a degree to be released back into its natural habitat. Any
                     euthanasia that is required should be done promptly and, in the manner, most humane to that
                     species.
                     Any injured animals that have a reasonable chance of being rehabilitated and released back into
                     their natural habitat should immediately be given the care that they require. Any animals that
                     require medical attention to treat or diagnose an injury should be taken to the closest vet. Any
                     orphaned young or fauna with minor injuries (e.g. concussion) should be taken to the closest carer.
                     Some animals for example koalas will require specialist care and the closest suitable care facility
                     should be contacted.


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Document Set ID: 21753628
                  21426255
Version: 1, Version Date: 12/01/2022
                          24/03/2021