Example 2
Endangered species: the Gouldian Finch (Erythrura gouldiae)
Introduction
The Gouldian Finch is one of Australia's most beautiful and
distinct bird species. At the start of this century, the species
was very common right across the savannas of northern Australia.
The species has declined dramatically, where it is listed as Endangered,
with a small population persisting in a small number of isolated
locations in the Top End and Kimberley regions.
Australia has one of the worst records for the extinction of native
species. In order to assist the recovery of these species, accurate
information is required. Endangered species pose one of the most
difficult methodological challenges for flora and fauna surveys,
as the species in question is usually extremely rare and it is therefore
very hard to collect adequate amounts of data.
Description of project
The major breeding location of the species is just north of
Katherine in the Northern Territory. Detailed surveys of the species'
population size, reproduction, nesting requirements and diet have
been carried out over the last 10 years at this site.
Using information gathered at this site about the species' requirements
for suitable habitat, researchers identified other locations with
similar environmental characteristics that may support undiscovered
populations of the species.
Exhaustive surveys were conducted, with surveys of waterholes
and searching tree hollows of suitable tree species (where they
nest). Unfortunately, the surveys met with limited success in locating
new populations. The Katherine population remains the stronghold
for the Gouldian Finch.
Outcome of project
This project is a good example of how a great deal of planning
and effort can be applied, but the answers to the problem remain
hidden. In this case, it took years to determine that a certain
facet of the species natural history, such as the availability of
nesting hollows, is not a factor limiting the distribution of the
species.
For more information
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