![]() ![]() First, we did not find any genetic separation between the two subspecies from northern Australia, banksii and macrorhynchus. This led us to make two changes to the formal classification (taxonomy) within the species. Intriguingly, the five conservation units that we identified were not the same as the subspecies that had been previously defined. The genetic data from our study allow us to outline a strategy to rescue graptogyne from its continued loss of genetic diversity. We also identified that the graptogyne subspecies of western Victoria and south-eastern South Australia has the lowest level of genetic diversity, and is likely to suffer from inbreeding. Protecting and maintaining these distinct units of genetic variation will maximize the chances of the species persisting in the wild. Our data set allowed us to identify five ‘conservation units’ within the species, which will help guide effective conservation strategies. We estimated that the ancestor of the species appeared within the past ~1.28 million years. We were able to extract a large amount of genetic data from these specimens, some of which were >100 years old, allowing us to investigate the relationships between the current subspecies. Fortunately, specimens have been collected over many decades and are stored in museums throughout Australia. Collecting the samples for such a study would normally have taken an immense amount of time and resources. We conducted a genetic assessment of the red-tailed black-cockatoo across its entire range. Genetic information is sorely needed to inform the management strategies for this species. The two southern subspecies are threatened, with only approximately 1,000 graptogyne 15,000 naso individuals remaining in the wild. The red-tailed black-cockatoo is also targeted in the illegal pet trade. Like other cockatoo species, red-tailed black-cockatoos cannot excavate their own tree hollows, yet they rely on them for nesting. The enthusiasm and commitment of BLEG and its members have been essential for mapping the extent and characteristics of Glossy black cockatoo habitat, which is critical for the future of this species.Unfortunately, the red-tailed black-cockatoo is suffering from habitat destruction. ![]() BLEG members continued to collect site information, verifying the existence of important Black she-oak habitat in Colquhoun State Forest and Lake Tyers State Park.Īfter the summer bushfires, BLEG members continued to collect information about previously surveyed and burnt habitat, unburnt Black she-oak stands and areas where Black she-oaks were re-shooting after the fires. We can also assess the effectiveness with which our planned burning mitigation measures protect the habitat.Įight volunteer members of Birdlife East Gippsland (BLEG) helped write the questions we need to answer to determine the significance of the Black she-oak stands and their surrounds as potential breeding sites for the cockatoo.ĭuring the annual BLEG bird survey camp at Mallacoota in October, members used the app to collect and record information about important habitat sites. Mapping the location of the stands and their characteristics gives us the information we need to protect the cockatoo’s habitat on public land from mechanical disturbance and fire during the planned burning program. In mid-2019, FFMVic staff from the Gippsland and Hume regions developed an app to help collect information about the location and characteristics of stands of Black she-oak. They feed almost exclusively on Black she-oak, and remnants of chewed cones can be used to identify the individual trees the birds feed on. ![]() Their range in Victoria extends from Mallacoota and the NSW border area to Colquhoun State Forest and north towards Gelantipy. Glossy black cockatoos occupy a small habitat niche in the forests and woodlands of eastern Victoria, eastern New South Wales and south-east Queensland. ![]()
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