Brush-Turkeys of Bingara their habitat, threats

and management.
Stringybark Ecological
December 2013

2
Author: David Carr, Tim Collins - Stringybark
Ecological and Sam Doak - landholder
dbcarr@bigpond.com
02 6772 4841
0418 651 263
Versions: 1.3.2
Scientific licence for collection of
specimens:
S13246
Original records and voucher
specimens stored at:
7 Taylor St, Armidale, 2350.
Client: Upper Gwydir Landcare Association
and Border Rivers-Gwydir Catchment
Management Authority
While reasonable care has been taken in preparing this report to ensure the
information is true and correct, the author gives no assurance as to the accuracy of
any information in this report.

The author expressly disclaims, to the maximum extent permitted by law, all
responsibility and liability to any person, arising directly or indirectly from any act or
omission, or for any consequences of any such act or omission, made in reliance on
the contents of this publication, whether or not caused by any negligence on the part
of the author.
3
INTRODUCTION 4
Methods 4
Camera surveys 5
Awareness Raising Brush-turkey Field Days 5
Site Visits 5
Data Collection 6
Results 6
Locations 11
Discussion 11
Conclusion and Recommendations 14
References 15
APPENDIX 1 REPORT SUMMARY FOR LANDOWNERS 17
Brush-Turkeys of Bingara their habitat, threats and management. 17
Distribution 18
Western Population as a Threatened Population and difference from coastal/urban
population 19
Local action 19
Local habitat preference 20
Threats 20
What can you do? 21
If you have turkeys on your property 22
1. Did you see a live turkey (or turkeys)? 23
2.Did you find a mound? 23
APPENDIX 3: PHOTOS 26
4

Introduction
Unlike in the backyards of Sydney and Brisbane, Brush-turkeys are not a
common sight in Bingara and Warialda. There is the occasional fleeting glimpse
of a bird flying or running across the road, the occasional chick turning up in a
paddock or old mounds found in the rough country at the back of some farms.
These limited experiences with this mound-building bird have aroused the
interest of many local people, who have been curious enough to use remote
cameras to learn more about them. A year of observations revealed some
interesting things about the birds and the mounds they build. These
observations also raised many questions: about why the birds live and survive
here; about the number of birds; about the existence of old mounds and active
mounds; and about the threats to adults and chicks.
This report on the western population of the Australian Brush-turkey (Alectura
lathami) aims to examine the habitat preferences and vegetation types where the
incubation mounds occur. Through an understanding of the habitat
requirements for breeding, landowners and land-managers may gain a better
understanding of the threats that the population faces and develop management
actions to address these threats. Many aspects of the eastern population have
been extensively studied (Birks, 1999; Eiby and Booth, 2008; Fleay, 1937; Goth
and Proctor, 2002; Goth, and Vogel, 2002; Goth and Vogel, 2003; Goth et al, 2006;
Jones, 1979; Jones, 1988; Jones, 1987; Jones et al, 1995; Keys, 1990; Seymour
and Bradford, 1992), but substantially little research has focussed on the
western population. Whilst the eastern population typically is associated with
closed forest types of rainforest and wet sclerophyll forests (Jones et al, 1995),
the western population inhabits a region vegetated by much drier, open forest
types, woodlands and grasslands (NSW Scientific Committee, 2005; McDonald,
2010). Large areas of the distribution of western population have been cleared
or modified to support agriculture and pastoral production (McDonald, 2010).
Introduced animals have naturalised, or become feral, and introduced plants
continue to spread into natural vegetation changing the physical characteristics
through competition and altered fire intensities and regimes.
The NSW Scientific Committee on 21/10/05 gazetted the western population of
Brush-turkeys as a Threatened Population. A number of factors were considered
to place the western population at high risk of extinction. These included the
limited and specialised habitat requirements for survival and breeding, and the
possibility that the population was disjunct from the eastern population and
near the limit of its geographical range (NSW Scientific Committee, 2005).
Methods
Study area
The study area is within the Gwydir Shire Council area in NSW, on the northwest
slopes of the Great Dividing Range, around the towns of Warialda and Bingara
(Bingara coordinates: 29 52 S, 150 34 E). The Gwydir Shire has a climate of
warm summers and cold winters, (BOM, 2013). The mean annual rainfall is
750mm with a summer maximum.
5
Camera surveys
Motion detection cameras have been purchased by Upper Gwydir Landcare
Association (UGLA) and loaned to participating landowners to monitor wildlife
activity on the Brush-turkey mounds. UGLA staff and local landholders installed
the cameras to capture images from mounds and from nearby tracks and holes in
fences. The cameras are triggered by motion and take 10 photos in sequence.
Photos were downloaded and stored by UGLA.
Awareness Raising Brush-turkey Field Days
Two Brush-turkey Field Days were conducted by the UGLA to raise awareness
amongst landowners and land managers of Brush-turkey mounds in the district.
Field days were publicised via adverts in the local media and on the internet.
Information was presented regarding the past and present distribution of Brush-
turkeys, the use of incubation mounds to hatch eggs, importance of biodiversity
on farms and the possible actions that can be made through Brigalow Nandewar
Biolinks project, managed by the Border Rivers-Gwydir Catchment Management
Authority.
Site Visits
Local landowners/managers, who had reported the presence of a Brush-turkey
mound on their property, were visited by a field ecologist to conduct a Brush-
turkey mound survey and collect data on the vegetation around each mound. Site
visits were usually conducted in the company of the landowner/manager, and
areas of likely suitable habitat were searched on foot for Brush-turkey mounds
(Figure 5).

Figure 5: Inactive mound surrounded by semi-evergreen vine-thicket. (Photo: T. Collins)

6
Data Collection
Brush-turkey mounds were assessed using a Bird and Mound Spotting Record
Sheet, designed for landholders (see Appendix 2), with additional information
collected at some sites. Data was collected on the presence or absence of Brush-
turkeys and the location description of the mound or bird. Mounds were
assessed as active or inactive depending upon evidence of scratching of leaf litter
around the immediate area.
Vegetation characteristics were assessed in a 20 x 20m quadrat at each Brush-
turkey mound site. To assist landholders, four distinctive local tree and shrub
species were presented in photos on the form and recorded if present: Red Olive
Plum (Elaeodendron australe), Native Grape or Currant Bush (Carissa ovata), Red
Ash (Alphitonia excelsa) and Holly-leaved Birdseye (Alectryon subdentatus). Any
other plant species within 20 metres of the mound were recorded if their names
were known.
Brush-turkey mound site topography was recorded by measuring the slope using
a clinometer. Aspect of the site was recorded using a handheld compass, and the
Brush-turkey mound slope position was assessed as lower or creek flats, middle,
upper, or crest or ridge.
Canopy cover was assessed for the tree, shrub and ground layers using the
Canopy Cover Assessment method (NCST, 2009). Dominant plant species in each
vegetation layer were recorded.
The physical aspects of the Brush-turkey mound such as height and width,
presence or absence of rocks in the Brush-turkey mound, and the presence of
saplings or trees growing out of the mound were recorded. Proximity of the
nearest track or road and the nearest water source was estimated by the
landowner/manager. Extra notes such as evidence of disturbance by other
animals was recorded.
Soils were described based upon the colour and texture of the soils and the
parent rock type.
Results
Table 1 contains mean monthly rainfall recorded at Bingara Post Office and the
2013 rainfall from January to October.

Table 1: Mean monthly rainfall for Bingara Post Office. (Source: BOM 2013)
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annual
Mean (mm) 93.2 88.6 61.3 41.3 49 50.3 51.2 43.6 46.5 65.6 71.8 81.2 746
2013
157.1 52.4 100.3 7.2 29.2 83.5 32.6 13.3 38.4 13.5



Results of field surveys are presented in Table 2 below. A total of 32 Brush-turkey
mounds were mapped, comprising 6 active mounds and 26 inactive mounds.

Table 2: Survey results of 32 Brush-turkey incubation mounds in the Gwydir Shire.
7
Site number Easting Northing Altitude
(metres)
Aspect (degrees) Slope
(degrees)
Slope
position
Soil type % canopy cover &
dominant species
% shrub cover &
dominant species
% ground-
cover &
dominant
species
Mound
status
Plant species present % Litter % bare
ground
Mound
width
(metres)
Mound
height
(metres)
Size of
bushland
patch
(hectares)
Distance to
nearest road
or track
(metres)
Distance to
nearest
water
(metres)
Rocks in
mound?
Trees in
mound?
Observer Other
comments
DerraDerra1
56J
0373055 6625001 487 30 14 Mid Red basalt 40, Eucalyptus albens
70, Geijera
parviflora
60, Carissa
ovata Inactive
Brachychiton populneus, Notelaea
microcarpa, Austrostipa verticillata.
Breynia oblonga, Beyeria viscosa, Olearia
elliptica, Pandorea pandorana, Dodonaea
viscosa, Acacia deanei, Alectryon
subdentatus, Acacia cheelii, Acacia decora,
Acacia salicina, Callitris glaucophylla,
Cassinia quinquefaria, Elaeodendron
australe, Abutilon leucopetalum, Aristida
personata DC
DerraDerra2
56J
0253504 6691633 547 240 16 Lower Red basalt
10, Angophera
floribunda
60, Notelaea
microcarpa
100, Carissa
ovata Inactive
Eucalyptus albens, Geijera parviflora,
Alectryon subdentatus, Elaeodendron
australe, Dodonaea viscosa, Gahnia aspera,
Austrostipa verticillata, Acacia cheelii,
Acacia salicina, Aristida personata DC
DerraDerra3
56J
0253775 6694607 463 180 6 Lower
Red basalt
loam
15, Eucalyptus
melanophloia
80,
Elaeodendron
australe
80, Carissa
ovata Inactive
Callitris glaucophylla, Angophera
floribunda, Alectryon subdentatus, Acacia
salicina, Beyeria viscosa, Leucopogon
muticus, Austrostipa verticillata, Lomandra
longifolia, Olearia elliptica, Pandorea
pandorana, Desmodium brachypodum,
Cymbidium canaliculatum, Gahnia aspera,
Aristida personata DC
DerraDerra4
56J
0254030 6694718 545 45 5 Upper
Stony red
basalt 1, Callitris glaucophylla
90, Alectryon
subdentatus
90, Aristida
personata
Inactive but
recent
Notelaea microcarpa, Alstonia constricta,
Elaeodendron australe, Brachychiton
populneus, Capparis mitchellii, Beyeria
viscosa, Pandorea pandorana, Olearia
elliptica, Austrostipa verticillata,
Spartothamnella juncea, Parsonsia
eucalyptophylla DC
DerraDerra5
56J
0254072 6694725 541 45 5 Upper
Stony red
basalt -
50, Notelaea
microcarpa
90, Beyeria
viscosa
Inactive but
recent
Geijera parviflora, Alectryon subdentatus,
Alphitonia excelsa, Carissa ovata, Olearia
elliptica, Austrostipa verticillata, Aristida
personata, DC
DerraDerra6
56J
0254384 6693522 620 100 1 Crest
Stony red
basalt 70, Eucalyptus albens
50, Geijera
parviflora
30, Olearia
elliptica Inactive
Callitris glaucophylla, Elaeodendron
australe, Acacia decora, Notelaea
microcarpa, Alphitonia excelsa, Psydrax
oleifolium, Carissa ovata, Beyeria viscosa,
Austrostipa verticillata, Aristida personata DC
DerraDerra7
56J
0254346 6692598 626 315 5 Upper Red basalt 2, Eucalyptus albens
80, Alectryon
subdentatus
75, Carissa
ovata Inactive
Callitris glaucophylla, Brachychiton
populneus, Elaeodendron australe, Acacia
salicina, Alstonia constricta, Notelaea
microcarpa, Aristida personata, Beyeria
viscosa, Pandorea pandorana, Parsonsia
eucalyptophylla DC
Windi1
56J
0264594 6706714 225 2 Lower Red basalt
40, Eucalyptus
moluccana
75,
Elaeodendron
australe
40, Carissa
ovata Active
Alphitonia excelsa, Geijera parviflora,
Psydrax odoratum, Clematis microphylla,
Beyeria viscosa, Dodonaea viscosa,
Notelaea microcarpa, Callitris
glaucophylla, Eucalyptus melanophloia,
Hovea lanceolata, Olearia elliptica, Acacia
leiocalyx, Desmodium brachypodum 6 1.5 >100 200 >1000 No Yes DC
Windi2 175
56J
0264422 6706245 480 180 5 Lower Red basalt Eucalyptus moluccana
Elaeodendron
australe Carissa ovata DC
8
Windi3 176
56J
0264594 6706714 481 235 3 Mid Red basalt Eucalyptus moluccana
Dodonaea
viscosa DC
Windi4 177
56J
0264685 6706852 495 45 6 Mid Red basalt 25, Eucalyptus albens
40,
Elaeodendron
australe/Geijera
parviflora
80, Carissa
ovata/
Austrostipa
verticillata Inactive
Callitris glaucophylla, Eucalyptus
melanophloia, Notelaea microcarpa,
Beyeria viscosa, Spartothamnella juncea,
Alphitonia excelsa, Cynanchum viminale, 60 25 >100 Grass DC
Windi5 178
56J
0264683 6706898 490 90 1 Upper Red basalt
25, Eucalyptus
melanophloia/Eucalyptus
albens
50,
Elaeodendron
australe/Notelaea
microcarpa
80, Carissa
ovata/Beyeria
viscosa Inactive Callitris glaucophylla, Alphitonia excelsa
Grass on
mound,
Trees
around base
of mound >100 DC
Windi6 179
56J
0264815 6706988 465 45 2 Mid Red basalt
35, Brachychiton
populneus/ Eucalyptus
melanophloia
20, Notelaea
microcarpa /
Elaeodendron
australe
50, Carissa
ovata Inactive
Callitris glaucophylla, Olearia elliptica,
Acacia deanei, Acacia decora, Acacia
leiocalyx 50 30 Yes DC
Sunnyside1 309
56J
0270749 6693793 383 135 6 Upper
Red sandy
clay 5, Eucalyptus albens
80,
Elaeodendron
australe /
Dodonaea
viscosa
<2, Tussock
Grasses Active
Eucalyptus sideroxylon, Eucalyptus
dealbata, Acacia leiocalyx, Notelaea
microcarpa, Dodonaea viscosa subsp
angustifolia, Olearia elliptica,
Spartothamnella juncea, Austrostipa
verticillata, Austrostipa scabra, Lomandra
sp, 3 2 >100 5 No Yes DC, TC
Sunnyside2 310
56J
0270799 6694029 399 90 15 Upper
Red Sandy
Clay 30, Eucalyptus albens
80, Dodonaea
viscosa
5, Tussock
Grasses Inactive
Eucalyptus albens, Eucalyptus sideroxylon,
Acacia leucoclada, Dodonaea viscosa
subsp angustifolia, Beyeria viscosa, Olearia
elliptica, Cassinia quinquefaria, Notelaea
microcarpa, Elaeodendron australe, Senna
coronillioides, Solanum sp, Aristida
personata, 20 5 5 1.2 >100 5 300 No Yes DC, TC
Sunnyside3 311
56J
0270776 6694327 410 90 4 Lower
Chocolate
brown clay
loam
30, Eucalyptus
mollucana
90, Dodonaea
viscosa
25, Carissa
ovata Inactive
Eucalyptus sideroxylon, Olearia elliptica,
Solanum ferocissimum, Spartothamnella
juncea, Acacia leucoclada, Austrostipa
verticillata 40 <5 3 0.5 >100 10 400 No Yes DC, TC
Known to be
40 years old.
Sunnyside4 313
56J
0270685 6694191 442 90 7 Crest
Loamy
brown clay
5, Eucalyptus
melanophloia
70, Dodonaea
viscosa
5, Carissa
ovata Inactive
Eucalyptus melanophloia, Callitris
glaucophylla, Dodonaea viscosa subsp
angustifolia, Acacia leiocalyx, Olearia
elliptica, Pimelea linifolia, Carissa ovata,
Sporobolus creber 50 10 3 0.6 >100 100 1000 No Yes DC, TC
Possibly
turkey flying
from tree on
approach
Sunnyside5 314
56J
0270614 6694268 434 45 14 Crest
Chocolate
brown clay
loam 5, Eucalyptus moluccana
90, Notelaea
microcarpa
50, Carissa
ovata Active
Eucalyptus sideroxylon, Eucalyptus
melliodora, Callitris glaucophylla, Psydrax
odoratum, Clematis microphylla, Senna
coronillioides, 60 10 6 1 >100 150 1000 No Yes DC, TC
Fox scat
containing
hair, Mound
disturbed by
pigs,
Strathnaver1 494
56J
0256948 6726945 382 150 14 Lower Sandy 30, Eucalyptus albens
40, Beyeria
viscosa
10, Carissa
ovata Inactive
Beyeria viscosa, Carissa ovata, Callitris
glaucophylla, Brachychiton populneus,
Eucalyptus albens, Notelaea microcarpa,
Acacia deanei 5 1 45-50 10 550 No Yes TC
Strathnaver2 495
56J
0256343 6727948 412 60 9 Middle Red basalt 40, Eucalyptus albens
55, Dodonaea
viscosa
10, Carissa
ovata Inactive
Notelaea microcarpa, Dodonaea viscosa,
Olearia elliptica, Beyeria viscosa,
Eucalyptus albens, Carissa ovata, Geijera
parviflora 5 1.2 45-50 8 250 No Yes TC
Strathnaver3 496
56J
6727082 378 45 1 Lower Sandy 85, Eucalyptus albens
50, Notelaea 60, Carissa
Inactive Notelaea microcarpa, Eucalyptus albens,
Alphitonia excelsa, Eucalyptus
6 0.9 45-50 5 500 No Yes TC
9
0257948 microcarpa ovata sideroxylon, Carissa ovata
StoneHenge1 497
56J
0267303 6728201 355 180 7 Lower
Red sandy
loam 20, Eucalyptus albens
15, Notelaea
microcarpa 30 Active
Dodonaea viscosa, Eucalyptus
melanophloia, Eucalyptus albens, Callitris
glaucophylla, Notelaea microcarpa,
Styphelia viridis, Bursaria spinosa, Acacia
leucoclada 7 1.2 >100 100 500 No Yes TC
Betts1 499
56J
0268199 6694955 456 150 11 Upper
Gravelly
loam, Basalt
70, Brachychiton
populneus
20, Beyeria
viscosa 90 Inactive
Brachychiton populneus, Callitris
glaucophylla, Eucalyptus melanophloia,
Notelaea microcarpa, Beyeria viscosa,
Bursaria spinosa, Aristida spp., Carissa
ovata, Alphitonia excelsa 6 0.8 >100 50 500 Yes Yes TC
Betts2 501
56J
0268160 6694958 459 180 13 Upper
Gravelly
loam, Basalt
60, Brachychiton
populneus
70, Beyeria
viscosa 80 Active
Psydrax spp., Brachychiton populneus,
Callitris glaucophylla, Eucalyptus
melanophloia, Beyeria viscosa, Notelaea
microcarpa, Eucalyptus albens, Carissa
ovata 4 1 >100 50 500 Yes Yes TC
Betts3 502
56J
0268319 6694992 419 180 15 Middle
Gravelly
loam, Basalt 70, Eucalyptus albens
80, Dodonaea
viscosa
60, Carissa
ovata Inactive
Eucalyptus albens, Brachychiton
populneus, Notelaea microcarpa,
Eucalyptus melanophloia, Callitris
glaucophylla, Dodonaea viscosa, Carissa
ovata, Elaeodendron australe 5 0.4 >100 4 500 Yes Yes TC
Betts4 503
56J
0268520 6694557 383 180 15 Middle
Gravelly
loam, Basalt
50, Eucalyptus
melanophloia
80, Dodonaea
viscosa,
10, Carissa
ovata Active
Eucalyptus melanophloia, Beyeria viscosa,
Dodonaea viscosa, Geijera parviflora,
Olearia elliptica, Beyeria viscosa, Carissa
ovata, Elaeodendron australe 7 1 >100 3 500 No Yes TC
Mound
disturbed by
digging.
Fresh
Turkey
droppings by
mound.
Rob1 506
56J
0251848 6727678 479 45 4 Upper
Brown loam,
Basalt 50, Eucalyptus albens
60, Notelaea
microcarpa 30
Long
inactive
Notelaea microcarpa, Geijera parviflora,
Eucalyptus albens, Elaeodendron australe 6 0.5 >100 150 500 No Yes TC
Rob2 507
56J
0251948 6727692 474 180 1 Crest
Brown loam,
Basalt 70, Eucalyptus albens
80, Beyeria
viscosa 50
Inactive but
recent
Eucalyptus albens, Beyeria viscosa, Olearia
elliptica, Geijera parviflora, Notelaea
microcarpa, Carissa ovata 6 1.2 >100 150 500 Yes Yes TC
Rob3 508
56J
0252128 6727524 476 180 1 Crest
Brown loam,
Basalt
80, Eucalyptus
melanophloia
60, Geijera
parviflora
15, Olearia
elliptica Inactive
Brachychiton populneus, Eucalyptus
melanophloia, Psydrax spp., Geijera
parviflora, Olearia elliptica, Eucalyptus
albens, Elaeodendron australe, Alectryon
subdentatus 7 1 >100 150 500 Yes Yes TC
Iona1
56J
0298010 6688418 0 Mod Middle
Granite,
sandy,
gravelly
60, Eucalyptus
melanophloia
60, Dodonaea
viscosa 20 Inactive
Ficus rubiginosa, Eucalyptus melanophloia,
Callitris glaucophylla, Acacia spp.,
Alectryon subdentatus, Notelaea
microcarpa, Dodonaea viscosa, Alphitonia
excelsa 4 1 >100 600 300 No Yes SD
Iona2
56J
0298643 6689140 180 Mod Middle
Granite,
sandy,
gravelly
60, Eucalyptus
melanophloia
60, Dodonaea
viscosa 20 Inactive
Eucalyptus melanophloia, Callitris
glaucophylla, Dodonaea viscosa, Notelaea
microcarpa, Aristida spp. 3 1 >100 1 300 No No SD
Iona3
56J
0298780 6689323 0 Mod Upper
Granite,
sandy,
gravelly
60, Eucalyptus
melanophloia
60, Dodonaea
viscosa 30 Inactive
Callitris glaucophylla, Eucalyptus
melanophloia, Aristida spp., Domi, Beyeria
viscosa, Notelaea microcarpa, Cassinia
quinquefaria, Ficus rubiginosa, Alectryon
subdentatus 4 1 >100 1 200 No No SD
Large
Callitris
stump on
northern side
of mound
logged in
1920's.


10
Brush-turkey mound aspect
Figure 6 below, shows the number of mounds with aspect at particular compass
points - the measurement of mound aspect. Of the 32 mounds found, 30 mound
aspects were recorded. The highest number of mounds was found with a
southerly aspect (8/30; 27%), the next highest occurring at a northeasterly
aspect (7/30; 23%). Of the 30 Brush-turkey mounds with aspect recorded, 23
out of 30, or 77% had an aspect between the compass points of northeast and
south.


Figure 6: Brush-turkey incubation mound aspect, cumulatively plotted on a compass graph.
Degrees from magnetic north are arranged around the outside of the graph. The number of
mounds recorded at each compass point is measured from the centre with increments of two
mounds. n=30
Vegetation
Dominant canopy species varied between sites, and consisted of one of three
Eucalyptus spp., Callitris glaucophylla and Brachychiton populneus, sometimes
with mixed stands of these trees. Percentage canopy cover was recorded in a
range of 1% to 85% with 12 sites recorded as having percentage canopy cover
greater than 50%. Shrub cover species recorded at sites was dominated by six
species of shrubs. Percentage shrub cover ranged from 15% to 90%, with 26
sites recorded as having percentage canopy cover greater than 50%. Dominant
ground-cover species was also variable between sites and consisted of two
tussock grasses and three species of small woody shrubs. Percentage ground-
cover ranged from 5% to 100% cover, with 16 sites recorded as having
percentage ground-cover greater than 50%.
At all but two mounds, canopy cover exceeded 50% in either the ground layer or
mid-level strata.
All plant species identified at the incubation mound sites are listed in Table 1,
above.

11


Locations

Figure 7: Location of Brush-turkey mounds surveyed in the Gwydir Shire, 2013. The NPWS
estates in the western part of the map area were not surveyed but are assumed to contain
suitable habitat.
Discussion
This study focuses on the vegetation characteristics of each site, with an aim to
develop an understanding of the habitat preferences that can guide future
surveys and land management for Brush-turkey conservation. Identification of
the emergent tree species, the understorey shrub and groundcover species
permits the vegetation to be classified according to structure and species
composition. The vegetation at 28 of the 32 sites surveyed falls into the category
of Semi-evergreen Vine Thicket (SEVT), a type of dry rainforest (McDonald
1996). SEVT in the Gwydir Shire is characterised by the prominence of trees with
microphyll-sized leaves (i.e. leaves usually 2.57.6 cm long) such as Red Olive
Plum (Elaeodendron australe), Native Grape or Currant Bush (Carissa ovata), Red
Ash (Alphitonia excelsa) and Holly-leaved Birdseye (Alectryon subdentatus).
The preferred habitat of the eastern population is rainforest and wet sclerophyll
forest, both characterised by a dense canopy and shady conditions (Jones, 1988;
Goth et al, 2006). These habitat conditions provide a cool humid environment
reducing the desiccation of the incubation mound and allowing the Brush-turkey
to control mound temperature. SEVT has physical characteristics such as thickets
12
and dense shade similar to rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest, that is rare or
absent from the open forest or woodlands in the Gwydir Shire. In the region of
the western population, SEVT produces the necessary shady microclimate for
Brush-turkey incubation mound moisture and temperature control.
SEVT is mostly restricted to the steeper slopes and ridges in the Gwydir Shire
due to land clearing for agriculture. Many of the sites surveyed contained
evidence of past commercial logging activities. At least one inactive site was
noted to have a large logged stump on the northern side of the mound. Logging
activities potentially could radically alter the forest structure, increasing light
levels and temperature, thereby reducing humidity and rendering the habitat
unsuitable for Brush-turkeys. The three sites at Iona and the Stonehenge site
have a history of commercial logging, and although they all contain some SEVT
species, the vegetation is primarily Callitris Pine and Eucalypt regrowth. This
regrowth vegetation has a less dense canopy and middle layer and is likely to
have higher temperature and light levels, although temperature and light were
not directly measured. Regrowth vegetation may not provide the same quality of
conditions for egg incubation and chick survival as intact SEVT. Further research
comparing regrowth to intact SEVT would help broaden understanding of these
sites.
We speculate that the Brush-turkeys prefer the SEVT community, with its denser
shade, abundant leaf litter and assortment of fleshy-fruited plants to other
communities, but past dispersal has forced some individuals into sub-optimal
areas.
None of the sites surveyed had introduced plant species, although Coolatai Grass
was nearby some of the sites. Weeds such as Coolatai Grass change the
composition of native vegetation by out-competing natives and by changing fire
intensity and regime.
Patch size
All of the mounds surveyed were found in large patches of vegetation with very
good connectivity to other patches. The hillsides around Bingara and Warialda
are well-vegetated and there is almost continuous connectivity over many tens
of kilometres. Most mounds occur in patches of continuous vegetation of at least
1000ha in size.
This study did not survey mounds west of the Horton River, or in Kaputar
National Park and the surrounding ranges, although Brush-turkeys are known to
occur there. These populations are in very large areas of bushland, but are
isolated from populations around Bingara and Warialda by cleared valley floors
in the Rocky Creek and Horton River areas. The population in the area of Derra
Derra Nature Reserve and the Benbraggie State Forest are not connected to
either the Kaputar or the Bingara-Warialda populations.
While this isolation is not critical at present, future climate changes may force
migration across climatic gradients, thus putting these populations at risk.
Mounds
13
Brush-turkey mounds can incubate many more eggs than a typical birds nest due
to the massive size and energy output from microbial decomposition of leaf-litter
(Seymour and Bradford, 1992). Seymour and Bradford, (1992), also found that
the siting of the mound was advantageous. Building on top of old mounds
provided an insulated base for the new mound. Also, building mounds near
thickets reduced convective heat losses. Thickets also provide a protective
habitat for dispersing chicks, reducing predation from raptors, cats, dogs and
foxes (Goth, and Vogel, 2002; Goth, and Vogel, 2003).
Almost all of the mounds surveyed, active and inactive, had regenerating trees
and shrubs growing out of the mounds. Whilst microbial decomposition can be
an effective means for killing the seeds of plants, the concentration of leaf-litter
and raked topsoil in incubation mounds does provide light, friable soil conditions
for seed germination. There is a limited amount of research on the germination
ecology of SEVT (McDonald, 2010) and further examination of the species
composition of plants regenerating in Brush-turkey mounds would assist
understanding the inter-relationships between Brush-turkey and SEVT.
Motion capture cameras showed that both native and introduced fauna were
attracted to Brush-turkey mounds. Jones (1987) found evidence of native
wildlife utilising mounds for food and shelter without predating the Brush-
turkey eggs or chicks. Lace monitors were photographed digging into active
mounds, presumably searching for Brush-turkey eggs and chicks, as were feral
pigs, and foxes and cats were also recorded at mounds.

Figure 8: Goannas are natural predators of Brush-turkey eggs and chicks. (Photo: UGLA)

Effect of recent dry conditions
The study area was experiencing a dry spell during the period of mound surveys
(BOM, 2013) with the 2012 rainfall being just below average. Brush-turkey
14
incubation mound construction is usually preceded by rainfall of at least 50mm
in eastern populations (Jones, 1988). This rainfall ensures that leaf-litter has a
high moisture content to facilitate microbial decomposition within the
incubation mound. Observations have been made of Brush-turkey opening the
top of the incubation mound to assist rainfall penetration (Fleay, 1937). Rainfall
has been shown to have no effect on mound temperature (Seymour and
Bradford, 1992) except in the instance of prolonged heavy rain causing mound
waterlogging that causes microbial activity to fall, cooling the mound (Eiby and
Booth, 2008). In general mounds with lower water content tend to be built larger
to compensate for lower levels of decomposition (Seymour and Bradford, 1992).
The recent dry conditions may have affected both mound size, as well as
reducing the number of mounds being built for this year.
The recent dry weather has also increased the risk of fire, with a fire covering
approximately 300ha on one property known to have Brush-turkeys occurring in
October 2013. A second major fire occurred in November on one of the
properties surveyed. The effect on the Brush-turkeys on this site is not known.
Long absence of fire
All of the sites surveyed had in common a long absence of wildfire. Many SEVT
species are known to be able to tolerate fire and re-sprout (McDonald 1996).
Many rainforest communities are somewhat resistant to the spread of fire
because of high turnover of leaf litter, lack of bark-shedding species, a high
proportion of species with mesophyllous leaves and lower density of grasses in
the understory. Absence of fire at the surveyed sites may reflect the desire of
landowners to exclude fire so as to maintain feed for sheep and cattle on other
parts of the property.
Impacts of feral fauna
The use of the motion capture cameras enabled identification of a number of
feral predators attracted to the Brush-turkey mounds (Middlemiss, 2013).
Several inactive mounds showed digging disturbance, in some cases causing
considerable damage to the mound structure. Foxes, pigs, cats and dogs were
recorded on and around the mounds. While there was evidence of digging by
echidnas and goannas, the digging by pigs causes major disturbance, which
demolishes and spreads part or all of the mound. This impact will be quickly
rectified by Brush-turkeys re-building the mound during the breeding season,
but would be catastrophic while there are eggs or chicks in the mound.

Conclusion and Recommendations
It appears that Brush-turkeys in the Gwydir Shire prefer to build their mounds in
Semi-evergreen vine thicket with a dense layer of tall shrubs or a dense ground
cover layer. The mounds are found from ridge-tops to gullies, but not in areas
where floods occur. All the mounds we surveyed were found in large areas of
native vegetation (>1000ha). The majority of mounds were found with an aspect
from south to north-east.
15
This report has identified several threats to the survival of the western
population of Brush-turkeys in the Gwydir Shire.
Threats identified are: feral animal predation by wild dogs, foxes, cats and pigs;
weed incursion into Brush-turkey habitat and associated changes to SEVT
vegetation structure and diversity; wildfire-induced changes to Brush-turkey
habitat; habitat loss and fragmentation.
In order to ensure the long-term survival of Brush-turkeys in the Gwydir Shire
and surrounding areas, we recommend:
1) Regional scale coordinated fox and pig control program to relieve
pressure on Brush-turkey adults, chicks and incubation mounds. A
combination of pest animal control methods, such as baiting, trapping and
shooting should be implemented.
2) Support for landowners and managers to maintain Brush-turkey habitat
in good condition at known sites identified in this report. Support should
include regular site visits to monitor feral pests and weeds, weed and
feral pest management and control.
3) Protect and further develop and enhance wildlife corridors between
vegetated ridges of SEVT Brush-turkey habitat (eg: Derra Derra ridge).
Create regional-scale corridors linking the large populations in the region.
4) Raise the awareness of the community about Brush-turkeys. Encourage
landholders, town residents and school students to learn more about
them.
5) Support continued community monitoring and mapping of Brush-turkey
sightings and incubation mounds to build a better picture of the
distribution of Brush-turkeys in the western population.
6) Supported scientific research into genetic diversity and variation in the
western population of Brush-turkey, identification of population extent
and areas of suitable habitat where Brush-turkey no longer occur.
We recommend that the local landholders who have led the ongoing research
into the local Brush-turkeys, continue to lead the implementation of these
recommendations, calling on external expertise if and when it is required.
References
Birks, S. M. (1999). Unusual timing of copulations in the Australian Brush-
Turkey. The Auk, 116, 1, pp169-177.
Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). Downloaded on 30/10/2013 from:
http://www.bom.gov.au/jsp/ncc/cdio/weatherData/av?p_nccObsCode=13
9&p_display_type=dataFile&p_startYear=&p_c=583447947&p_stn_num=05
4004
Eiby, Y. and Booth, D. (2008). Embryonic thermal tolerance and temperature
variation in mounds of the Australian brush-turkey (Alectura lathami). The
Auk, 125, 3 pp.594-599.
Fleay, D. H. (1937). Nesting habits of the Brush-turkey. The Emu, 36, pp153-163.
Goth, A. and Vogel, U. (2002). Chick survival in the megapode Alectura lathami
(Australian brush-turkey). Wildlife Research, 29, 503-511.
16
Goth, A. and Vogel, U. (2003). Juvenile dispersal and habitat selectivity in the
megapode Alectura lathami (Australian brush-turkey). Wildlife Research,
30, pp69-74.
Goth, A., Nicol, K. P., Ross, G. and Shields, J. J. (2006). Present and past
distribution of Australian Brush-turkeys Alectura lathami in New South
Wales implications for management. Pacific Conservation Biology, 12,
pp22-30.
Jones, D. (1979). Notes on the breeding habits of the Brush Turkey. The Sunbird,
10, 1, pp.8-10.
Jones, D. (1987). Animals using the incubation mounds of the Australian Brush-
turkey. The Sunbird, 17, 2, pp.32-35.
Jones, D. N. (1988). Construction and maintenance of the incubation mounds of
the Australian Brush-turkey Alectura lathami. Emu, 88, pp.210-218.
Jones, D. N., Dekker, R. W. R. J. and Roselaar, C. S. (1995) The Megapodes. Oxford
University press, New York.
Keys, M. G. (1990). Relocation of Australian Brush-Turkeys. The Sunbird, 20, 2,
pp.33-36.
McDonald, W.J.F. (1996). Spatial and temporal patterns in the dry seasonal
subtropical rainforests of eastern Australia, with particular reference to the
vine thickets of central and southern Queensland. PhD thesis, Botany
Department, University of New England, Armidale.
McDonald, W.J.F. (2010). National recovery plan for the Semi-evergreen vine
thickets of the Brigalow Belt (North and South) and Nandewar Bioregions
ecological community. Report to Department of the Environment, Water,
Heritage and the Arts, Canberra. Queensland Department of Environment
and Resource Management, Brisbane.
Middlemiss, B. (2013). The Australian Brush Turkey In Gwydir Region NSW.
Report for the Upper Gwydir Landcare Association.
NSW Scientific Committee (2005). Australian brush-turkey population,
Nandewar and Brigalow Belt South bioregions - endangered population
listing. Downloaded on 29/10/2013 from:
www.environment.nsw.gov.au/determinations/AustralianBrushTurkeyNa
ndewarBrigalowEndSpListing.htm
Seymour, R. S. and Bradford, D. F. (1992). Temperature regulation in the
incubation mounds of the Australian Brush-turkey. The Condor, 94, 1,
pp134-150.
The National Committee on Soil and Terrain (NCST). (2009) Australian Soil and
Land Survey Handbook, 3rd Edn. CSIRO Publishing, Collingwood, Vic.

17

Appendix 1 Report summary for landowners
Brush-Turkeys of Bingara their habitat, threats and
management.
The Australian Brush-turkey (Alectura lathamii), also known as the Scrub Turkey
or Bush Turkey belongs to the mound-building bird-family Megapodiidae, which
includes Malleefowl and Orange-footed Scrubfowl. Adult Brush-turkey are large
black birds 60cm to 70cm in height (Figure 1). The neck and head of both sexes
is bare of feathers and red in colour with a bright yellow wattle, or yellow folds
of skin, on the neck. Breeding male birds develop a larger and more prominent
wattle compared to female birds.

Figure 1: Male Australian Brush-turkey. (Photo: UGLA)
Male Brush-turkey scratch and rake leaf-litter and soil to build large incubation
mounds several metres wide and around one metre tall. The heat generated by
microbial decomposition of the leaf-litter in the mound, is monitored and
regulated by the male, and provides the warmth necessary to incubate the eggs.
Female birds visit the mound to mate and lay eggs, with each mound potentially
attracting more than one female bird. This reproductive strategy enables a single
male bird and his mound to incubate from 20 to 50 eggs each breeding season.
Brush-turkey chicks are covered with brown downy feathers and are 12 to 15cm
in height. They are able to fly, feed and fend for themselves within days of
hatching. Whilst there is some anecdotal evidence that parent birds assist in the
18
chicks escape from the incubation mound, there is no further parental care once
the chicks have left the mound.
Distribution
Historically Australian Brush-turkeys have been recorded in NSW from the NSW
south coast to the Border Ranges, and from Jindabyne, the Pilliga Forest and
Moree in the west. Land-clearing for agriculture and the introduction of cats,
wild dogs, foxes and pigs led to a decline in the southern and western
populations.
Current knowledge of Brush-turkey distribution in NSW indicates that they
commonly occur on the eastern slopes of the Great Dividing Range (GDR) from
around the Shoalhaven River in the south to the Border Ranges in the north,
forming an eastern population. A smaller western population occurs in Mount
Kaputar National Park near Narrabri to around the towns of Bingara and
northeast of Warialda, on the western slopes of the GDR.

19
Western Population as a Threatened Population and difference from
coastal/urban population
The western population of the Brush-turkey inhabits a type of dryland rainforest
called semi-evergreen vine thicket (SEVT), which is hotter and drier than the
rainforests of the eastern population. The NSW Scientific Committee has listed
the western population of Brush-turkey as a Threatened Population,, due to the
high risk of extinction. The western population has limited suitable habitat due
to land clearing. Areas of suitable habitat connecting the eastern and western
populations are fragmented and possibly incomplete, isolating the western
population. Lack of connectivity of the western population with the larger
eastern population increases the risk of inbreeding and extinction.
Local action
There has recently been considerable community interest in Brush-turkeys in
the Gwydir region (Figure 2). From the initial use of a few motion detection
cameras on a small number of Brush-turkey mounds, landowners and the Upper
Gwydir Landcare Association (UGLA) have purchased and utilised more cameras
and have aroused greater community awareness of biodiversity in the region.

Figure 2: Inspecting an inactive mound that has been damaged by pigs. (Photo: D. Carr)

A small survey of Brush-turkey mounds in the Derra Derra Nature Reserve found
7 inactive mounds, and sparked interest in the vegetation and habitat
characteristics that are favoured by Brush-turkeys in the Gwydir Shire.
UGLA, with support from the Border Rivers-Gwydir Catchment Management
Authority, have supported the community by providing resources and advice to
monitor Brush-turkey mounds. The information gathered from the use of motion
detection cameras, observations by landowners and details of the flora and
habitat preferences collected by Stringybark Ecological, form the basis of this
report.
20
A second survey of Brush-turkey mounds on private properties has recorded an
additional 25 mounds and used information from landowners to guide the
search, as well as collecting measurements and observations of the vegetation
preferences gathered in the initial survey.
Increased awareness amongst local Turkey Spotters has been key to the
identification of new Brush-turkey mounds. Most of the Brush-turkey mounds
surveyed have been found well off the beaten track, by informed locals
exchanging knowledge through the UGLA.
Local habitat preference
From the observations of active and inactive mounds in the Gwydir Shire the
common characteristics are that Brush-turkey mounds are most likely to be
found in large patches of bush, with Semi-evergreen Vine-thicket (SEVT) in a
southerly to northeasterly aspect. Mounds were routinely sited on the southern
side of large trees or under closely spaced patches of trees so that they were
shaded in the hotter parts of the day.
Incubation mounds may be built on steeply sloping sites to flat sites, with no
clear relationship between altitude and position on slope. Mounds were found on
ridge tops, mid-slope, and in gullies beside creek beds. Soil type was also variable
across sites, with basalt, granite, metasediment (trap) and sandstone derived
soils.
At both active and inactive mounds across most sites there was evidence of other
animal species, native and introduced, being attracted to the mounds. This
supports the idea that the mounds are important sites of biological activity
providing food and shelter to other species such as lizards, birds and native
mammals. Long inactive mounds are recognized by the remaining mound of soil
and several were still attracting wildlife looking for food, evidenced by small
feeding diggings. Most mounds surveyed had regenerating trees and shrubs
growing out of the mounds.
Threats
The western population is threatened with extinction by the combined effects of
introduced predators such as pigs, foxes, cats and wild dogs with extra pressure
from habitat loss and fragmentation.
Pigs disturb incubation mounds searching for eggs and chicks to eat (Figure 3).
Rooting through the mounds destroys the structure, releases heat and requires
the male Brush-turkey to expend more energy on mound reconstruction.
21

Figure 3: Pig digging into an active mound. (Photo: UGLA)

Foxes eat and destroy eggs by digging into the mound and eat chicks after they
have hatched and dispersed into the bush (Figure 4).
Cats kill and eat chicks and can often penetrate thick scrub where chicks might
otherwise be safe from birds of prey, dogs and foxes. Chicks are much more
vulnerable to predation than adult birds, which are larger. Habitat fragmentation
restricts the dispersal of birds and favours predation by birds of prey hunting
around habitat edges.
Weeds, particularly perennial grasses, can change the Brush-turkey habitat by
competing with native plants and changing fire intensities.
Fire reduces available leaf-litter and promotes fire-tolerant plant species at the
expense of other plant species that may provide food and shelter sources.
Habitat loss reduces the available area to live and reproduce in thereby limiting
the number of Brush-turkey in a population. This can lead to inbreeding in the
long term.
What can you do?
Feral animal control programs can reduce pressures on Brush-turkey living on
your property. Controlling feral animals will increase the survival of both adults
and chicks, and ensure more successful breeding each year. Control programs
must be coordinated among neighbours in order to be effective.
22

Figure 4: Fox at night visiting an active mound. (Photo: UGLA)

Stop weeds from spreading into weed-free areas by preventing contaminated
vehicles and machinery from spreading weed seeds. Control isolated outbreaks
of weeds as they occur. Learn to identify weeds, including so-called
environmental weeds such as Coolatai grass and Buffel grass.
Carefully manage hazard-reduction burns and protect Brush-turkey habitat from
wildfire. Manage dense grass growth around semi-evergreen vine thicket
patches through grazing or slashing.
Connect isolated patches of brush-turkey habitat by planting wildlife corridors.
Use local species and include a dense understorey of local shrubs including
native grape (Carissa ovata).
Participate in the Brigalow Nandewar Biolinks project you can get assistance
and advice with weed control, feral animal control, revegetation and property
planning.
Management of the threats to the western population of Brush-turkey helps
protect this threatened population from extinction. Management of the threats
also supports sensible land management for profitable and productive
properties.
If you have turkeys on your property
If you think you know the location of a Brush-turkey mound:
Contact UGLA: Ph: (02) 67 242 052 E: ugla@gwydir.nsw.gov.au
Upper Gwydir Landcare Bingara, PO Box 108, BINGARA, NSW 2404
Or,
Contact National Parks (Office of Environment and Heritage),
Narrabri: 6792 7300; Armidale: 6738 9100

23
Appendix 2: Talking Turkey Bird and Mound Spotting Record
Sheet
Have you seen a brush turkey or its mound in the Bingara,
Warialda, Back Creek, Pallal, Gravesend or surrounding area? Brush
turkeys in this area are part of a rare population, separated from
their cousins on the coast. We would like to know more about
where brush turkeys live or used to live so we can make better
decisions to ensure their survival in this area. Can you help by
recording some information about your sighting on this sheet and
sending it to: Upper Gwydir Landcare Bingara, PO Box 108, NSW 2404
1. Did you see a live turkey (or turkeys)?
No.Go to 2
Yes. How many.._________? What was it doing?
_________________________________________________
Was it on or near a mound? Go to 2.
2.Did you find a mound?
( A brush turkey mound is a roughly dome-shaped pile of dirt, leaf litter, twigs and rocks
up to 2m high and 8m wide.)
Location (lat/long, map reference and map name)
Describe location (e.g. 250m south of Keera Rd near River Rd turnoff)
Is the mound active (freshly scratched leaf litter) or inactive?













Are any of these plants present within 20m of the mound?
24


Red Olive Plum (small tree) Native grape or currant bush (low growing,
spiny shrub)

Red Ash (small tree, bottom of leaves
are white)
Holly-leaved birdseye. (small tree with
toothed leaves)
25
Can you name any other trees, shrubs or plants nearby?



Slope
Flat or near flat Moderate Steep


Aspect (which direction are you facing when your feet point downhill?)
N NE E SE S SW W NW


Slope Position
Lower or creek
flats
Middle Upper

Crest or Ridge


Canopy cover
Tree layer (trees and shrubs taller than 6m)
Dense (shady) Moderate Light
Middle layer (shrubs and small trees 1 to 6m tall)
Dense (shady) Moderate Light
Ground layer (grasses and shrubs less than 1m tall)
Dense Moderate Light

How big is the patch of bushland where the mound is?
<1 ha 1-10 ha 10-100 ha >100ha

How big is the mound?
Width Height


Distance to nearest track or road
Distance to nearest water
Are there rocks in the mound?
Are there saplings or trees growing out of
the mound?








26
Appendix 3: Photos

Photo 1: Inactive Brush-turkey mound illustrating shady habitat features, abundant leaf-litter
and SEVT. (Photo: D. Carr)

Photo 2: Native Grape; Wait-a-while: Carissa ovata: potentially an important part of the
vegetation for Brush-turkey chick survival. (Photo: D. Carr)

Photo 3: Large mound shaded by trees on northern side. (Photo: D. Carr)
27

Photo 4: Local landowners examine a large inactive Brush-turkey mound. (Photo: D. Carr)

Photo 5: Long inactive mound with numerous SEVT trees established. (Photo: D. Carr)
28

Long inactive mound now almost completely destroyed by pigs and goats. (Photo: T. Collins)

Photo 6: Long inactive mound in good quality SEVT. Numerous small diggings indicate this
mound still attracts wildlife. (Photo: T. Collins)
29

Photo 7: Active mound considered by landowner to be newly constructed in 2013. (Photo: T.
Collins)

Photo 8: Active mound damaged by pigs, with fresh Brush-turkey droppings suggesting that
mound not abandoned. (Photo: T. Collins)