Ecological Assessment · RAL26/0015

       Dense Understorey/Ground Layers – provide cover for dispersal/refuge of smaller
        terrestrial mammals; usually associated with intact sclerophyllous/riparian vegetation.
        Marginal understorey/ground layer structure was noted predominantly adjacent to the
        central northern boundary.
       Outcrops/Cliffs/Caves – provide refuge for a variety of species; usually associated
        with steep topography and variation in geological formations. No significant outcrops/
        cliffs/caves were noted on the site.
       Contiguous Vegetation – native bushland provides a dispersal conduit for fauna
        between core habitats across the landscape. A minor level of connective function exists
        within vegetation adjacent to the central northern boundary given that it is contiguous
        with proximate bushland remnants to the north, however corridor value across the
        majority of the site is otherwise considered to be limited given the landuse/disturbance
        history and ongoing edge-effects throughout.

Given the available components it is considered that overall habitat value is Low-Moderate at
best, and concentrated predominantly within vegetation adjacent to the central northern
property boundary.

4.2.2 Mammals

A limited number of native mammals were observed directly/indirectly via trace during survey,
and given the available components it is considered that the site may potentially support a
minor assemblage of terrestrial/arboreal/flying mammals common to sub-coastal environs.

Notwithstanding, WildNet data (refer APPENDIX 4) indicates that two (2) species of threatened
mammal have been previously recorded within the subregion (5-kilometre radius of the site).

These species, their conservation status and habitat requirements (van Dyck & Strahan, 2008)
are as follows:

       Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) – scheduled as Vulnerable under
        EPBCA99. Prefers dense riparian vegetation for roosting and forages on nectar, fruits
        and leaves.
       Koala (SEQ bioregion Phascolarctos cinereus) – scheduled as Endangered under both
        NCA92 and EPBCA99. Prefers sclerophyllous vegetation of varied composition and
        structure comprising, among other Myrtaceous species, Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus
        tereticornis), Tallowwood (E. microcorys), Grey Gum (E. propinqua), Swamp
        Mahogany (E. robusta) and Scribbly Gum (E. racemosa) for foraging/refuge.

A targeted search revealed no current/recent presence of these species at time of survey,
however given the available components it is considered that the site comprises some transient
habitat potential for both the Koala and Grey-headed Flying-fox within a broader home-range.

4.2.3 Birds

A minor abundance of native birds was observed during survey, and given the available
components it is considered that the site may potentially support a low-moderate assemblage
of raptors, nectivores, frugivores, insectivores, waders and edge-specialists common to
subcoastal environs (predominantly due to dispersal ability).

Notwithstanding, WildNet data (refer APPENDIX 4) indicates that eighteen (18) species of
threatened bird have been previously recorded within the subregion (5-kilometre radius of the
site). These species, their conservation status and habitat requirements (Pizzey & Knight, 2007)
are as follows:

       Beach Stone-curlew (Esacus magnirostris) – scheduled as Vulnerable under NCA92.
        Prefers open and undisturbed beaches, tidal mudflats/sandflats, mangroves and
        exposed reefs.


                                                                   Basic Ecological Site Assessment
                                            Page 13               434 Lake Cooroibah Rd, Cooroibah
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