Models of the distribution and abundance of ground-dwelling mammals in the eucalypt forests of north-eastern New South Wales in relation to habitat variables

Abstract

We examined the distribution and abundance of ground-dwelling mammals in eucalypt forests in relation to habitat variables within an area of c. 24 000 km2 in north-eastern New South Wales. Habitat variables are defined as vegetative variables that may be altered or created by humans or natural disturbances and used for the management and/or conservation of fauna. Statistical models of the distribution and abundance of ground-dwelling mammals in relation to the habitat variables are presented. Generally, the ground-dwelling mammals in the region were more diverse and in greater abundance, and the forest more complex, than in south-eastern New South Wales. The models reflect a general preference of the ground-dwelling fauna for forests that were least disturbed. However, some species were more tolerant of disturbance than others. Recent developments in remote sensing have allowed the mosaic of habitats for ground-dwelling mammals to be mapped over large areas of the landscape. Such maps and the models presented here are discussed with respect to the management of wildlife species. The reduced disturbance during silvicultural practices and the lower abundance of foxes are discussed in relation to the greater diversity and abundance of the ground-dwelling mammals in the region than in south-eastern New South Wales.