Survey techniques and impact mitigation for the Endangered northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus) in the semi-arid landscapes of the Pilbara

Abstract

Improvements in survey techniques for threatened species gives quantifiable confidence about their presence or absence at a given location, enhancing our understanding of patterns of distribution and abundance. This is particularly important for legislatively protected threatened species that may be at risk of disturbance. Survey techniques vary in detection confidence, resource investment, and invasive impacts to individuals. We review the appropriate applications of techniques in surveying for the endangered northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus), including the effort required to be 95% confident of detecting presence and monitoring change in population trends in the Pilbara bioregion. The outlined protocols indicate best practice for effective and efficient northern quoll monitoring while protecting the welfare of the animals being monitored, and are relevant to Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act requirements. We also provide suggestions to mitigate impacts on animals and habitat, and describe future directions and emerging techniques for the monitoring of northern quolls and other endangered species. This information is targeted at those interested in monitoring northern quolls in a field setting, including researchers, environmental consultants, Traditional Owners, and land managers.