Foraging behaviour and habitat use of the feathertail glider (Acrobates pygmaeus) at Waratah Creek, New South Wales

摘要: Observations were made of the foraging behaviour feathertail glider (Acrobates pygmaeus) at Waratah Creek in south-eastern New South Wales (NSW). Gliders observed on 164 occasions, including 42 observations feeding, 41 moving along a substrate and 68 gliding to tree, an understorey plant or ground. On remaining gliders lost from view before any information was recorded. Most (91%) feeding occurred live eucalypts. When eucalypts, 61% searching under loose shedding bark 32% engaged foliage gleaning. Foraging amongst is suggested represent honeydew arthropods while gleaning indicative manna, honeydew, lerps arthropods. Nectar uncommon only 3% trees which flowering. In contrast, 42% these showed signs recent shed. Two ground, suggesting that may also be captured there. Comparison frequency use different tree species with abundance those highly significant preference for E. fastigata, other used proportion their abundance. Analysis smallest three size classes (<40 cm diameter breast height) less often than expected basis trees. Overall, six habitat types study area but seasonal differences habitats. These results permit consideration management requirements timber production forests NSW. It concluded this are catered by existing prescriptions.