Norfolk Island Research Articles

How to Count Parrots: Comparing the Performance of Point and Transect Counts for Surveying Tasman Parakeets (Cyanoramphus cookii)

Obtaining precise estimates of population size and trends through time is important for the effective management and conservation of threatened species. For parrots (Psittaciformes: Psittacidae), obtaining such estimates can be challenging, particularly for cryptic species that occur in low densities in complex and/or fragmented habitats. We used a statistical resampling approach with the aim to compare the reliability and precision of counts for the critically endangered Tasman parakeet (Cyanoramphus cookii) that were taken using two methods on Norfolk Island (Pacific Ocean), namely, fixed-point counts and line transect counts. The detections obtained during fixed-point counts had better estimated precision (0.274) than line transect counts (0.476). The fixed-point method was also more efficient, yielding 1.338 parakeet detections per count compared to the 0.642 parakeet detections per count obtained by the line transect method. Although Tasman parakeets can be detected by either of these methods, our research demonstrates that the fixed-point method is more precise and reliable. These findings can help prioritise resources for the long-term monitoring of recovering populations of this species and similar island species.

Evolution of Placentation in Eugongylini (Squamata: Scincidae): Ontogeny of Extraembryonic Membranes in Oviparous and Viviparous Species of New Zealand.

New Zealand scincid lizards, genus Oligosoma, represent a monophyletic radiation of a clade, Eugongylini, of species distributed geographically throughout the South Pacific with major radiations in Australia and New Caledonia. Viviparity has evolved independently on multiple occasions within these lineages. Studies of Australian species have revealed that placental specializations resulting in substantial placentotrophy have evolved in two lineages. The pattern of extraembryonic membrane development of oviparous species differs from viviparous species and identical placental architecture has evolved in both placentotrophic lineages. We analyzed extraembryonic membrane development in two New Zealand species, the sole oviparous species, Oligosoma suteri, and placental development of a representative viviparous species, Oligosoma polychroma, using histological techniques. We conclude that these two species share a basic pattern of extraembryonic membrane development with other squamates. Comparisons with Australian species indicate that morphogenesis of the yolk sac of O. suteri results in an elaborate structure previously known only in Oligosoma lichenigerum with a geographic distribution on Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island. This finding supports a close relationship between these two taxa. We conclude also that the pattern of placental development of O. polychroma is identical to that of viviparous species of Australia. The terminal placental stage for each of these lineages includes a chorioallantoic placenta and an elaborate omphaloplacenta. This level of homoplasy in placental evolution is consistent with a hypothesis that selection favors regional differentiation of the maternal-embryonic interface and that the omphaloplacenta is an adaptation for histotrophic transport.

Habitat requirements of a critically endangered Ninox hawk‐owl: implications for island‐wide restoration

Small, isolated populations can be especially sensitive to poor habitat conditions due to their limited capacity to adapt or disperse. Management of such populations, with an objective to implement the most effective strategies, is a conservation priority. The Norfolk Island morepork (Ninox novaeseelandiae undulata) is a Critically Endangered hawk‐owl endemic to Norfolk Island with an estimated population of 25 individuals. This species faces compounding threats from habitat degradation and loss, as well as inbreeding depression. It presents an exemplar for the development of habitat management strategies for top‐order predators in small, isolated systems. We paired fine‐scale light detection and ranging‐derived habitat variables with tracking data to quantify habitat suitability and the relative importance of environmental variables. Maximum entropy modeling indicated vegetation patch size and canopy height were important habitat variables, with moreporks more likely to be found in larger patches and canopy heights above 7 m. Morepork presence was not strongly influenced by the type of wooded vegetation; rather, the species appears to be a generalist occupier of forested areas. We demonstrate that suitable habitat during the breeding season is currently constrained, with coverage limited to one‐third (34%) of the island and an estimated carrying capacity of 36 morepork pairs. Restoration of native forest in cleared areas adjacent to existing wooded patches, with a specific goal to increase patch size, was the optimized management strategy to increase in situ carrying capacity. This study has demonstrated how habitat suitability modeling can inform targeted habitat restoration to enhance threatened species recovery.

Cartography, Conversation, and Critical Cultural Justice Inquiry: Participatory Mapping and the Reimagining of Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area, Norfolk Island

Informed by critical cultural justice inquiry, this article reflects on participatory mapping activities undertaken on Norfolk Island that were aimed at capturing practices, routes, and emotions associated with Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area. We discuss how participants understood the parameters of mapping tasks; adapted and individualized activities; engaged in collaborative practice; and exercised reflexivity. The article finds that participatory mapping captures variances in how participants relate to and engage with Kingston. The article emphasizes the importance of recording conversations during participatory mapping to offer greater nuance and insight into visual data recorded on the maps.

Ghosts and the machine: testing the use of Artificial Intelligence to deliver historical life course biographies from big data

This article presents the findings of an experiment in the use of Artificial Intelligence text generation processes to convert historical ‘big data’ into narrative text. Using an extensive collection of records pertaining to the Australian colonial settlement of Norfolk Island in the South Pacific (1788–1814), we investigate Generative Large Language Model technology for converting tabulated data from the site into short pieces of novel text, describing the lives of transported convicts and free individuals recorded in our databases. These personalized stories are assessed for fluency and factual correctness. Using this process, we uncover some instructive problems and caveats. We detect AI’s inherent tendency toward bias and uncritical perspectives, including potentially offensive stereotypes. We also discover an unwelcome tendency to summarize data. So, whilst the outputs are for the most part effective and functional, we find that the best results still require artful human intervention to fully capture the most human aspects of history and heritage research.

A First Metabolite Analysis of Norfolk Island Pine Resin and Its Hepatoprotective Potential to Alleviate Methotrexate (MTX)-Induced Hepatic Injury.

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) represents a significant clinical challenge characterized by hepatic dysfunction following exposure to diverse medications. Methotrexate (MTX) is a cornerstone in treating various cancers and autoimmune disorders. However, the clinical utility of MTX is overshadowed by its ability to induce hepatotoxicity. The current study aims to elucidate the hepatoprotective effect of the alcoholic extract of Egyptian Araucaria heterophylla resin (AHR) on MTX-induced liver injury in rats. AHR (100 and 200 mg/kg) significantly decreased hepatic markers (AST, ALT, and ALP), accompanied by an elevation in the antioxidant's markers (SOD, HO-1, and NQO1). AHR extract also significantly inhibited the TGF-β/NF-κB signaling pathway as well as the downstream cascade (IL-6, JAK, STAT-3, and cyclin D). The extract significantly reduced the expression of VEGF and p38 with an elevation in the BCL2 levels, in addition to a significant decrease in the IL-1β and TNF-α levels, with a prominent effect at a high dose (200 mg/kg). Using LC-HRMS/MS analysis, a total of 43 metabolites were tentatively identified, and diterpenes were the major class. This study presents AHR as a promising hepatoprotective agent through inhibition of the TGF-β/NF-κB and JAK/STAT3 pathways, besides its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Colonial Ascidian Populations at Inshore Coral Reefs of Norfolk Island, South Pacific

Subtropical coral reefs such as the lagoonal reefs of Norfolk Island in the remote South Pacific are vastly understudied, with many benthic species unrecorded in the scientific literature. Here we report on ascidian populations from 2021 to 2023 at Norfolk Islands inshore reefs. Quantitative assessments spanning that period were conducted to assess ascidian presence, cover, and benthic interactions. We show ascidian cover remained persistently low and stable across the lagoonal reefs during the study period. We find adjacent reef site, Cemetery Bay showed variation in ascidian cover over time, where we measure a 3.2-fold increase in cover over 2 years. Ascidians were associated primarily with sand and sediment substrates at all reef locations. Recorded interactions between hard corals and ascidians were low. This study provides valuable insights into the population dynamics of ascidians within subtropical reef ecosystems. Ongoing ascidian population monitoring can provide a comprehensive understanding of ascidian dynamics whilst also providing insight of theimpact of anthropogenic stressors on benthic communities. Together, this can aid in informing management and conservation strategies for subtropical reefs.

Apparent anti‐parasite behaviour in the Norfolk Island green parrot Cyanoramphus cookii

AbstractBirds must cope with all manner of ectoparasites, from insects and mites to bacteria and fungi. During their grooming routine, several Norfolk Island green parrots Cyanoramphus cookii were observed and photographed, and a pair was videoed, biting off and chewing small pieces of lateral shoot and bark of pepper trees Piper excelsum and working the chewed material through their feathers. They also stripped the leaves and rubbed their beaks along the branches before extracting preen oil. Pepper trees are a well‐known source of piperine and other potent aromatic chemicals that are insect repellent and antimicrobial. This appears to be a rare example of a bird using plant material to anoint themselves, which we interpret as a way to repel blood‐sucking insects and ectoparasites and, possibly, void endoparasites, thereby improving fitness.

Features of the formation of the progressive prison system in England

The article examines the peculiarities of the development of a progressive prison system in England. It is noted that the prerequisites for the implementation of this system were: an increase in the number of convicts, and therefore, prisoners; lack of prisons; decentralization and inefficiency of the prison system at that time; demoralizing consequences of execution of punishments. In 1838, the main regulations for reforming the penitentiary system of England were submitted to the government. The result of the proposed reform was the formation of a progressive prison system. The beginnings of the English progressive system of execution of punishments can be found in the activities of Captain D. McConochie, who in 1840 first applied its regulations to convict labourers on Norfolk Island near Australia, where the most dangerous criminals were sent. In England itself, this system was first introduced in 1842 in Pentonville Prison. The English progressive penitentiary system provided for several stages of imprisonment: solitary confinement, which took place in special solitary cells; collective imprisonment with joint labor during the day and separation at night; parole. The system had the following characteristic features: gradualness in the severity of the punishment, which depended on the arrestee himself; individualization of execution of sentences, based on a personal daily analysis of prisoners’ attitude to the regime and work; involvement of prisoners in the provision of prison activities; comprehensibility and accessibility for each detainee; significant educational influence on prisoners, most of whom were interested in softening prison conditions; parole as the highest reward for good behavior and conscientious work. The system had significant successes and attracted the attention of specialists and the public by reducing recidivism and a diverse set of educational measures. It also found its embodiment in the modern penitentiary system of England, in which the execution of prison sentences is organized according to a progressive system, which provides for solitary confinement with subsequent transfer to a general cell, where the regime of detention has three degrees. One of the main elements of organising and executing punishments related to deprivation of liberty is the classification and division of prisoners into four categories. According to these categories, there are four regimes of detention of prisoners.

Diet breadth of a critically endangered owl presents challenges for invasive rodent management: a conservation conundrum

ABSTRACT Trophic interactions between threatened species complicate management. Similarly, interactions between threatened species and pest species present management challenges, given that pest control can lead to non-target impacts (e.g. trophic cascades or secondary poisoning). There are records of the critically endangered Norfolk Island Morepork Ninox novaeseelandiae undulata consuming both threatened songbirds and invasive rodents that are subject to management interventions. Nevertheless, the diet of the morepork remains largely unknown. We visually screened regurgitated pellets using a microscope, alongside environmental DNA (eDNA) screening of pellets and scats, to investigate the diet of the Norfolk Island Morepork. A total of 113 pellets and 19 scats were collected between October 2020 and June 2021. All moreporks screened with eDNA metabarcoding had consumed invasive rodents and at least one-third of samples contained rodents. The owls were also found to have consumed four of five endemic songbirds and possibly an endemic parrot, most of which are threatened. Environmental DNA metabarcoding detected more taxa overall, but visual screening identified a greater richness of Orthoptera and Coleoptera in the diet. The frequency with which the Norfolk Island Morepork consumed rodents presents a conundrum for conservation managers. Control of invasive rodents is considered essential to support threatened songbirds, yet this same action places the species at risk of secondary poisoning. Urgent investigations are needed to identify effective control methods for invasive rodents that are safe for non-target species.

Aa Norf’k Wieh: a pacific epistemology for reconceptualising heritage management in Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area, Norfolk Island

ABSTRACT Informed by critical heritage studies, Pacific theory-building scholarship and Indigenous research methodologies, this article introduces Aa Norf’k Wieh – a Pitcairn descendant epistemology for understanding the experience and management of living heritage in Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area (KAVHA), Norfolk Island. Central to Aa Norf’k Wieh is storytelling, reflecting the oral traditions of Pitkern-Norf’k. Aa Norf’k Wieh is captured in the article through the Indigenous research methodology of storywork, with personal family narratives revealing different ways of knowing, being, feeling, and doing heritage. Based on the storying of Aa Norf’k Wieh, the article proposes that, as a Pacific epistemic practice, Aa Norf’k Wieh has the potential to reconfigure how heritage value is understood by heritage managers, consultants, and scholars to produce more culturally just heritage management for KAVHA. The article posits that attention to this epistemology supports a shift from material- and values-based approaches to heritage management on Norfolk Island to a living heritage approach that centres Pitcairner descendants as the core community of KAVHA.

An a priori assessment of the impact of harvesting from five wild populations for conservation translocations

Given the frequency with which translocation is implemented as a conservation tool, remarkably little research has assessed the sustainable management of translocation source populations. We sought to make an a priori estimate of the impact of multiple alternative harvesting scenarios on five passerine species endemic to Norfolk Island which may benefit from future translocation. Population parameters for our five focal taxa were quantified using distance sampling at 298 point surveys conducted in 2019. Intensive nest monitoring between 2018 and 2020 was used to estimate reproductive rates. We modelled population trajectories for all five taxa under alternative harvesting scenarios in forward projections over a 25‐year period to assess the likelihood that focal populations could recover from a harvesting event. We used sensitivity analysis to assess the robustness of models to uncertainty around some population parameters. We estimate that Norfolk Island National Park supported 1486 Norfolk Robins Petroica multicolor (95% confidence interval (CI) 1017–1954), 7184 Slender‐billed White‐eyes Zosterops tenuirostris (95% CI 5817–8551), 2970 Norfolk Grey Fantails Rhipidura albiscapa pelzini (95% CI 2094–3846), 3676 Norfolk Gerygones Gerygone modesta (95% CI 2869–4482) and 1671 Norfolk Golden Whistlers Pachycephala pectoralis xanthoprocta (95% CI 1084–2259) in 2019. All five species were predicted to recover from the harvest of 50, 100 or 150 individuals within 10 years. Despite considerable variation in population parameters, we demonstrate that all five focal taxa have the potential to sustain harvesting at rates required for future conservation translocations. We provide a clear comparison of differing intensity harvesting strategies for on‐ground managers. More broadly, we provide a rare example of an a priori assessment of the impact of harvesting for translocation.

Unveiling the Impact of Mythimna seperata Walker (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Agriculture: Insights into Host Range Biology and Biological Control: A Review

The Oriental armyworm scientifically referred to as Mythimna separata poses a significant threat to cereal crops across East Asia, South Asia, and Australia, resulting in notable agricultural losses. Recent reports indicate its widespread presence in 21 Asian countries and its establishment in Europe (Russia) and Oceania (Australia, Cook Islands, Fiji, New Caledonia, Norfolk Island, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu). M. separata undergoes a comprehensive metamorphic life cycle, progressing through stages of egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The larvae are highly voracious, causing significant harm to diverse crops This pest targets a wide range of host plants spanning 18 families, with the majority belonging to Poaceae (44 species), Brassicaceae (10), Cucurbitaceae (9), and Fabaceae (8), exacerbating agricultural damages. The voracious feeding habits of M. separata larvae lead to significant crop damage and reduced yields across various crops. Its adaptability to diverse environments and broad host range further amplifies its impact on agriculture. The challenges in predicting and controlling outbreaks stem from its strong flight capabilities, high reproductive rates of females, and voracious feeding behavior during later larval stages. Traditionally, insecticide application has been the primary method for controlling M. separata. However, concerns regarding health risks, ecological disruptions, rising costs, diminishing efficacy of some products, and adverse effects on non-target organisms and human health highlight the need for environmentally sustainable pest management strategies. Biological control, involving the utilization of natural enemies such as insects, viruses, fungi, bacteria, nematodes, mites, and spiders, has emerged as a vital approach for managing insect pests while preserving ecological balance. Given the complex challenges posed by M. separata, implementing a holistic approach that integrates biological control methods holds promise for effective pest management. This approach aligns with principles of environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation within agro-ecosystems.

Genetic diversity and inbreeding in an endangered island-dwelling parrot population following repeated population bottlenecks

Genetic diversity and population structure can have important implications for the management of threatened species. This is particularly true for small, isolated populations that have experienced significant declines or population bottlenecks. The Norfolk Island green parrot Cyanoramphus cookii is an endangered species at risk of inbreeding and loss of genetic diversity due to its restricted range and the population bottlenecks experienced in recent decades. To assess the severity of inbreeding and loss of genetic diversity in the population we analyzed single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for 157 unique genetic samples collected from nestlings and randomly captured adult birds between 2015 and 2022. We also assessed the population for genetic structure, calculated sex ratios, and looked for evidence of past population bottlenecks. Our analysis revealed that 17.83% of individuals sampled were highly inbred (F > 0.125), although expected heterozygosity (HE) did not significantly differ from observed heterozygosity (HO) and the average inbreeding coefficient was low. The estimated effective population size (Ne) was 43.8 and we found no evidence of genetic structure. Demographic simulations provided support for scenarios including multiple population bottlenecks, when compared to those with a single population bottleneck or no past bottlenecks. We discuss the implications of our findings for the future management of the species including any potential attempt to establish an insurance population via translocation. Our study highlights the importance of considering population genetics when determining appropriate management actions for threatened species and the need to assess non-model species on an individual basis.

Extinct Australian birds: numbers, characteristics, lessons and prospects

ABSTRACT Since European colonisation of Australia in 1788, nine Australian bird species (1.2% of the Australian total) have become extinct, along with 22 subspecies (of 16 species). Consistent with global patterns, Australia’s island endemic birds have been particularly susceptible, comprising eight of the nine species’ extinctions (38% of the bird species endemic to islands smaller than Tasmania), and 13 of the 22 subspecies’ extinctions. The extinction of only one bird species (Paradise Parrot Psephotellus pulcherrimus) from the Australian mainland contrasts with the far higher rate of extinctions of Australian mammals (27 of 312 species that occurred on the Australian mainland), and is comparable with the rate of extinctions of birds on the mainland of other continents over this period. Extinctions of Australian birds were caused mainly by introduced predators (especially for island taxa), habitat degradation, and hunting (for some island taxa). The timing of some extinctions is uncertain, but the first bird extinction subsequent to European colonisation was the loss of the flightless White Gallinule Porphyrio albus from Lord Howe Island over the period 1788–1790. Extinctions have occurred in most decades since then, with the most recent being for Norfolk Island’s White-chested White-eye Zosterops albogularis in the decade 2000–2009. Environmental legislation, an extensive conservation reserve system, and dedicated conservation management efforts have prevented some extinctions. However, local extirpations continue, many threatened species continue to decline and, without an increase in conservation efforts, the rate of extinctions is likely to increase, mainly due to the direct and compounding impacts of climate change.

First records of Herald Petrel Pterodroma heraldica on Phillip Island (Norfolk Island Group)

The Herald Petrel Pterodroma heraldica is a medium-sized gadfly petrel that breeds primarily on islands across the tropical and subtropical South Pacific Ocean. Its only confirmed breeding site in the Australasian region is Raine Island off North Queensland, where it occurs in very small numbers. Here we report on the presence of a Herald Petrel ashore on Phillip Island (Norfolk Island Group) in June 2021, and subsequent sightings in May and June 2022. On most occasions that a Herald Petrel was observed on the ground, it was seen under a shrub, behaviour which is consistent with prospecting for a nest site in this surface-nesting species. These sightings make Phillip Island one of just four locations in Australian territory at which the Herald Petrel has been recorded ashore away from Raine Island. Our new records reinforce the importance of active island restoration and the value of long-term intensive monitoring efforts. Future observations will confirm whether the species attempts to establish on Phillip Island, a location free from introduced predators and with ample suitable habitat.

Molecular diagnostics of insecticide resistance in Australian Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) quarantine intercepts

AbstractAustralian ports are continuously exposed to exotic and invasive mite and insect species associated with imported fresh produce. Much effort is focused on preventing the exotic species from entering Australia by product fumigation or destruction in a timely manner. However, quarantine intercepts of invasive species may contain unwanted resistance to pesticides or carry viruses that can undermine Australian agricultural sustainability. We examined pesticide resistance status in 1275 Tetranychus urticae samples from quarantine intercepts from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry originating from some 29 countries spread over 6 main continents (Africa [4], Asia [12], Europe [3], North America [2], Oceania [4] and South America [4]). We used a high‐throughput multiamplicon sequencing platform to screen major target‐site mutations that cause acaricide resistance in T. urticae. These included G119S, A201S, T280A, G328A and F331Y (Ace‐1) associated with mode of action (MoA) 1 insecticide (organophosphates and carbamates); M918, L925I, L1014F and F1538I (VGSC) associated with MoA 3 insecticide (pyrethroids); G314D (GluCl1) associated with MoA 6 insecticide (avermectins and milbemycins); and finally, H92R (PSST) associated with MoA 21 insecticide (fenpyroximate, pyridaben and tebufenpyrad). The results revealed that four known mutations (G119S, T280A, G328A and F331W) were abundant in the quarantine samples including those from Norfolk Island and New Zealand. The mutations L1024V, F1538I and L925V (VGSC) associated with pyrethroid resistance were widespread through many samples, but the super Kdr mutation M918 was not detected. Similarly, H92R (PSST) that causes resistance to fenpyroximate, pyridaben and tebufenpyrad was found in most of the T. urticae intercept samples. We conclude that resistance alleles entering Australia through quarantine intercepts are common, suggesting that unwanted or rare alleles could enter Australia via this route. However, exotic quarantine breaches carrying such alleles remain of most serious concern.

A 600–700‐year‐old basalt adze production site from Mount Bates, Norfolk Island

ABSTRACTWhile pre‐European settlement of Norfolk Island has been recognised for many decades, particularly the larger settlement site at Emily Bay, until this point there has been limited understanding, and very little systematic recording of evidence for inland settlement. This report presents the location, chronology, stratigraphy and artefact assemblage of a previously undocumented lithic production site from Mount Bates in the north‐western uplands of Norfolk Island. The site dates to approximately 600–700 calBP. Excavations recovered over 1200 basalt artefacts, representing various stages in the adze production process. Sites such as this contribute to a better understanding of the range of activities carried out by Polynesian settlers of Norfolk Island, the stone tool economies of marginal Polynesia and the importance of local stone sources for understanding Oceanic settlement.

Spatio‐temporal distribution of atmospheric chloride deposition over a small island

AbstractEstimating chloride deposition rates is important for several applications. The conservative nature of chloride makes it a widely used natural tracer for hydrological investigations, such as groundwater recharge estimations and catchment salt balances. Additionally, chloride deposition is used to identify the sources and pathways of air pollutants as well as predict the likelihood of corrosion in infrastructures. The variability of atmospheric chloride (Cl−) deposition is a crucial consideration in hydrological investigations, particularly in coastal areas where it can fluctuate greatly. On small islands, spatial variations of chloride deposition have been found to be particularly strong, which may lead to large estimation errors when assuming point measurements are representative of larger areas. This paper aims to improve knowledge of the factors affecting chloride deposition's spatial and temporal variability in small islands using Norfolk Island (South Pacific) as a case study. A monitoring network consisting of 15 open‐site rainwater collectors was installed, from which 275 rainwater samples were collected for the period September 2020–July 2022. Total deposition rates for this period varied from 22.7 to 36.7 mg m−2 d−1 for sites located more than 400 meters from the coast. A higher variation is observed closer to the coast, with values varying from 50.9 to 1022.7 mg m−2 d−1 for sites located between 50 and 200 m from the coast. Statistical analysis shows that distance from the nearest point on the coast and elevation above sea level are significant factors contributing to spatial variability of chloride deposition, whereas period‐total rainfall depth and period‐average maximum daily wind gust speed significantly affect the temporal variability. This study contributes to knowledge on chloride deposition variability as well as the understanding of factors contributing to this variability in small islands. Additionally, a double exponential model for spatial distribution of chloride deposition in small islands is proposed.

Microbial source tracking of fecal pollution to coral reef lagoons of Norfolk Island, Australia

Fecal pollution contributes to global degradation of water quality and requires identification of the source(s) for predicting human health risk, tracking disease, and developing management strategies. While fecal indicator bacteria are commonly used to detect fecal pollution, they cannot identify sources. Novel approaches, such as microbial source tracking (MST), can be applied to evaluate the origin of fecal pollution. This study examined fecal pollution in the coral reef lagoons of Norfolk Island, Australia where reef health decline has been related to nutrient input. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the host sensitivity and specificity of two human wastewater-associated marker genes (Bacteroides HF183 (HF183) and cross-assembly phage (crAssphage)) and four animal feces associated marker genes targeting avian, ruminant, dog, and pig (Helicobacter-associated GFD (GFD), Bacteroides BacR (BacR), Bacteroides DogBact (DogBact), and Bacteroides Pig-2-Bac (Pig-2-Bac)) in wastewater and animal fecal samples collected from Norfolk Island. The prevalence and concentrations of these marker genes along with enterococci genetic marker (ENT 23S rRNA) of general fecal pollution and human adenovirus (HAdV), which is considered predominantly a pathogen but also a human-wastewater associated marker gene, were determined in surface, ground, and marine water resources. A secondary objective of this study was to assess the sources and pathways of fecal pollution to a sensitive marine environment under rainfall events. HF183, crAssphage, HAdV, and BacR demonstrated absolute host sensitivity values of 1.00, while GFD and Pig-2-Bac had host sensitivity values of 0.60, and 0.20, respectively. Host specificity values were > 0.94 for all marker genes. Human and animal (avian, ruminant, dog) fecal sources were present in the coral reef lagoons and surface water whereas groundwater was polluted by human wastewater markers. This study provides understanding of fecal pollution in water resources on Norfolk Island, Australia after precipitation events. The results may aid in effective water quality management, mitigating potential adverse effects on both human and environmental health.