Habitat use and density of numbats (Myrmecobius fasciatus) reintroduced in an area of mallee vegetation, New South Wales

摘要: The distribution of the numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus) has been dramatically reduced since European settlement, with remnant populations now occurring naturally only in south west Western Australia. In recent years a number reintroductions have led to reestablishment this species parts its former range. study we investigated density and habitat use within 4,000 ha feral - free site on Scotia Sanctuary western New South Wales. Numbats had reintroduced 1999 2000. During transect sampling 500 km were driven 10 numbats observed. An additional 14 sightings made incidentally during survey period. We estimated at be 1.24 individuals/100 (SE = 0.56). located randomly throughout four major vegetation communities reintroduction site. At finer scale, selected for areas less spinifex bare ground, although visibility using technique cover may increased. This provides information habitats used by local suggests that is capable re-inhabiting range where essential resources such as food shelter are still available adequate levels, introduced predators absent. This, turn, implications future management decisions about how reintroduce other