The Vertebrate Fauna of Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve: Final

that changes in rainfall patterns and distribution will be far more important determinants of species
distribution in the future (P. Wilson pers. comm.). The continued drying pattern already observed in
south-eastern Australia is expected to continue and intensify, resulting in many changes to species
distributions (Alexander and Arblaster 2009, CSIRO and Bureau of Meteorology Australia 2010).
Preliminary modelling of changes in the distribution of bat species suggests that many will be severely
affected to the point of extirpation from the JKCR area by 2050 (P. Wilson preliminary data). The bat
species most impacted are the eastern horseshoe bat, eastern bentwing-bat, eastern false pipistrelle
and greater broad-nosed bat. The large-eared pied bat is the least impacted of those modelled.
Although this modelling at a continental scale and the results tentative and only interpreted with
caution, the trends are alarming with significant implications for the long-term conservation of fauna in
the region.
Introduction of white-nosed syndrome: White-nosed syndrome is a serious disease of cave-dwelling
bats that has seriously impacted on bat populations in North America. It is thought to be transmitted on
clothing and equipment of visitors to caves. It does not currently occur in Australia but is a serious
threat if it is introduced. See the cave-dwelling fauna section 9 for more detail.
6.5.2 Threats of lower relevance to JKCR
There are a number of additional threats that have the potential to impact on fauna species not
currently identified as very high, high or moderate conservation priority, as follows.
Herbicide spraying: The spraying of herbicides in and adjacent to riparian areas may impact frogs and
other aquatic species. Due to the significant weed infestation at JKCR, this may occasionally be an
issue and care should be taken to follow standard precautions when applying herbicides i.e. avoid
riparian zones; do not use on windy days; do not use when it is raining or when there is a reasonable
chance of rain.
Use of boundary fencing with barbed wire top strands: Use of boundary fences with barbed wire top
strands may ensnare and result in mortality of a number of species, particularly bats and nocturnal
birds. The following threatened species are known to be impacted sooty owl, barking owl, powerful
owl, yellow-bellied glider and koala (Booth 2006), as well as other bat and glider species (M. Schulz
pers. comm.). At present there is only a limited amount of barbed wire fence on the reserve, mainly on
the borders. Replacement should be considered in consultation with neighbours.
Road and trail maintenance: Roads and trails may significantly alter natural drainage patterns resulting
in altered flow regimes in waterways, increased sedimentation and erosion. Vehicles, riding of horses,
push bikes and illegal motorbikes also leads to erosion, habitat destruction and roadkill. There are few
formed unsealed trails within the reserve, so this threat is of limited relevance to JKCR. However,
whenever maintenance is required, potential impacts need to be considered.
Infection of native plants by root-rot fungus (Phytophthora cinnamomi): Phytophthora can result in
plant die back reducing the available habitat for common and threatened species. It is endemic
through the region but is not currently identified as a significant issue for JKCR.
98
Current distribution of the eastern bentwing-bat (P. Wilson
preliminary data).
Predicted distribution of the eastern bentwing-bat in 2050
(P. Wilson preliminary data).
The Vertebrate Fauna of Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve