Artificial tree hollow creation for cavity-using wildlife – Trialling an alternative method to that of nest boxes

摘要: Abstract Tree hollow scarcity is a threat to cavity-dependent vertebrate wildlife world-wide across many landscapes. Currently, only nest boxes are commonly used mitigate or offset lost cavity-bearing trees, with number of shortfalls reported using this technique. There need trial alternative techniques improve artificial cavity provisions. This preliminary study investigated the use carving hollows directly into tree trunks chainsaws. Sixteen two simple types were created in timber production forest south-eastern Australia. One type comprised basal entrance (38 mm diameter) which provided space above entrance, intended for bats, and other below 38 mm 76 mm marsupials birds. Five species over 15-month monitoring period; feathertail glider ( Acrobates pygmaeus ) (in 75% hollows), brown antechinus Antechinus stuartii (75%), sugar Petaurus breviceps (63%), long-eared bat Nyctophilus sp.) (50%) white-throated treecreeper Cormobates leucophaea (25%). Camera revealed inspection after one day post creation by treecreepers gliders, building three days. No host failure occurred either wall widths trialled years stability. Wound-wood formed partly enclosed hollows’ faceplates time, improving sturdiness likely resulted closely resembling natural cavities. Mechanically have broad application potential landscapes prospect overcome some drawbacks boxes. More research required document long-term performance effectiveness