Fire Ecology in Reptiles
Background
Field positions are currently available in reptile fire ecology - a great opportunity to experience the amazing diversity of the Australian reptile fauna.
Fire is an intergral part of many ecosystems but human induced changes in land use and climate mean that new ways of managing fire in natural habitats are necessary. Many animal species are sensitve to fire, with some relying on old-growth unburnt habitat, while others are more abundant in recently burnt sites. Biodiversity may be at risk if fire regimes are not implemented at scales which incorporate the complexity of fire responses in animal communities.
This wildlife research project will investigate fire responses in reptiles to better understand how fire can be used to maintain biodiversity in natural habitats. Several field trips will be conducted this summer to catch reptiles using pitfall traps. We will be recording morphometric and demographic information as well as taking DNA samples for genetic analysis before releasing the animals at the capture sites. We will also be radio tracking certain species to study home range sizes and habitat use.
Please see the attached flyer, and check out our website for more detailed background information on the project.
Fire is an intergral part of many ecosystems but human induced changes in land use and climate mean that new ways of managing fire in natural habitats are necessary. Many animal species are sensitve to fire, with some relying on old-growth unburnt habitat, while others are more abundant in recently burnt sites. Biodiversity may be at risk if fire regimes are not implemented at scales which incorporate the complexity of fire responses in animal communities.
This wildlife research project will investigate fire responses in reptiles to better understand how fire can be used to maintain biodiversity in natural habitats. Several field trips will be conducted this summer to catch reptiles using pitfall traps. We will be recording morphometric and demographic information as well as taking DNA samples for genetic analysis before releasing the animals at the capture sites. We will also be radio tracking certain species to study home range sizes and habitat use.
Please see the attached flyer, and check out our website for more detailed background information on the project.
Dates and Locations
Mallee conservation parks, Eyre Peninsula, South Australia
2010: Jan, Feb, Mar
What we provide: All expenses will be covered including food, transport from Adelaide and accommodation. Accommodation will be in the form of a farm house near the study sites, but we will sometimes camp in the parks to get an early start in the mornings before heading back to the house after the traps are checked.
What volunteers require: No field experience is necessary. All that is required is an interest in nature and a positive attitude to working hard in the field. It will be necessary for volunteers to bring some basic camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, etc) as we will be sleeping under the stars occasionally.
Contact Details
Annabel Smith
08 83033698
0415539509
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
08 83033698
0415539509
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it