Habitat requirements of the squirrel glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) and associated possums and gliders on the New South Wales central coast

Abstract

One of the largest known populations of the threatened squirrel glider occurs in the Wyong and Lake Macquarie regions of the New South Wales central coast. A study of the habitat requirements and density of this population was undertaken as a component in a broader study to develop a regional conservation strategy for the species. The squirrel glider was found to be widespread at an estimated average density of 0.39 animals ha–1. It was most abundant in forests and woodlands with an overstorey of winter-flowering eucalypts (Corymbia maculata, Eucalyptus robusta, Eucalyptus tereticornis) or an understorey of winter-flowering banksias (Banksia spinulosa) or pinnate-leaved acacias (Acacia irrorata). The highest estimated density (0.7 ha–1) occurred in associations of scribbly gum (Eucalyptus haemastoma or racemosa), smooth-barked apple (Angophora costata) and red bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) with an understorey of Banksia spp and Xanthorrhoea spp. The lowest estimated densities occurred in forests with an understorey dominated by casuarinas or non-pinnate acacias and in stunted, low (<17 m high) forest and woodland close to the coast. The abundance of all possums and gliders increased significantly with canopy height, canopy cover, the number of mature and old-growth trees and the number of trees with hollows. Preferred habitat of the squirrel glider in this region occurs predominantly on freehold land where it is threatened by clearing for coastal development. Implementation of planning provisions to protect squirrel glider habitat on private land will be necessary to maintain the existing regional population.