Application for an Animal Research Authority (ARA) · EES Animal Ethics Committee Application for...

Environment Energy & Science Animal Ethics Committee Application for an Animal Research Authority (ARA) OFFICE USE CM9 record: AEC number: Date received: Meeting date: Agenda item:

AEC Form 1 – For projects seeking first AEC approval

AEC Form 1 – For projects seeking first AEC approval Version 2.1 | March 20 Principal investigator: Dr David Bain Project title: Eastern bristlebird genetics and disease research

i

SUBMIT SIGNED APPLICATION TO:

Executive Officer Animal Research Ethics Unit (AREU) Policy Division Phone: (02) 6776 0038 Email: [email protected]

Applications must reach the AREU by the submission closing date to be considered at the next scheduled AEC meeting.

Submission and meeting dates are published on Insite.

OFFICE USE Date approved: Notes:

☐ Approved☐ Approved with special conditions☐ Approved with instructions☐ Approved subject to a satisfactory response

to AEC request for additional information☐ Rejected☐ Rejected – resubmission invited

Signature of EES AEC Chair or Delegate:

SECTION 1 – ADMINISTRATION

Principal investigator: Dr David Bain

Project title: Eastern bristlebird genetics and disease research

Applicant's role title in EES: Threatened Species Officer

Division: Regional Operations

Branch/Section: Ecosystems and Threatened Species, South East Branch, Biodiversity and Conservation, DPIE

Postal address: PO Box 513, Wollongong NSW 2500

Email:

Work phone:

Mobile:

Go to Section 2

mailto:[email protected]://insite.environment.nsw.gov.au/OEH/Policy/SitePages/Animal%20Ethics%20Committee.aspx

EES Animal Ethics Committee Application for an Animal Research Authority (ARA)


ii



iii

SECTION 2 – PROJECT OVERVIEW

2.1 Select type of submission from the options listed below: This is a RESUBMISSION of a previous application.

2.2 (a) Proposed commencement date: 14 December 2020

(b) Reason(s) for nominated commencement date:Other (please specify): critical for National recovery program and species seasonality

2.3 Proposed completion date (leave blank if there is no defined completion date): Proposed completion date

2.4 Has this project, or a project that is substantially the same as this project, been lodged with any other AEC, either previously or simultaneously? ☒ No Available resources have been consulted to exclude similar submissions to another AEC(s). ☐ Yes If available, provide details and attach a copy of the application approved by another AEC(s) below.

☐ Other AEC application(s) attached.

2.5 Does this work duplicate any work previously or currently being carried out by EES or others? ☒ No Available resources have been consulted to confirm this proposal does not duplicate other research. ☐ Yes Please provide justification as to why duplication is necessary below.

2.6 Is any part of this project to be conducted in collaboration with another institution in NSW or elsewhere? ☐ No☒ Yes Please provide details and specify the role of each institution in the project below.

VIC Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) – will also utilise the results to direct ongoingmanagement of eastern bristlebirds in Victoria, including for translcoations and captive breeding. Will provide financialsupport and expertise in undertaking fieldwork and genetic analysis.

Department of Defence (Beecroft Weapons Range) – one of many locations for fieldwork and will provide expertise inundertaking fieldwork.

cesar – company that will undertake the genetic analysis.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary – Will provide expertise in undertaking sample analysis for disease prevalence

Parks Australia (Booderee National Park) – one of many locations for fieldwork and will provide expertise in undertakingfieldwork

2.7 Do you or any of the people listed in this application have an actual or potential interest, including any financial interest or other relationship or affiliation, which may affect judgements and decisions regarding the wellbeing of the animals involved? ☒ No☐ Yes Please provide details below.

Go to Section 3



iv

SECTION 3 – DETAILS OF PROJECT AND USE OF ANIMALS

3.1 Using plain English explain what this project is about (up to 200 words). Include the scientific or educational aims, potential benefits to humans, animals or the environment, and specifically state how it relates to broader EES program(s) or priorities, for example Saving our Species (SoS). The eastern bristlebird (Dasyornis brachypterus) is listed as endangered under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, as well as NSW, QLD and VIC state legislation. The species occurs as three geographically discrete populations, with the northern population occurring on the NSW/south-east QLD border, the central populations located in coastal and upland Illawarra regions, and the southern population confined to coastal habitat on the NSW/VIC boarder. Saving Our Species and National Recovery Plan conservation objectives include strategies for preventing extinction and recovering smaller populations through captive breeding and translocations. Recent comparison of the genetic diversity of one central population, captive northern and wild southern birds has suggested low genetic diversity in smaller populations. As genetic rescue is now recommended, more information on the genetic diversity of all populations is needed. Several captive birds have succumbed to fatal parasite infections and the frequency and parasite loading levels in wild populations is unknown. The aim of this project is to therefore collect genetic and cloacal swab material from all NSW populations of eastern bristlebirds, in order to inform the potential benefits of using different founder birds for future breeding programs or translocations to supplement small wild populations.

(a) Please select the relevant Purpose Code(s) from the options below:A4 - Research: human or animal biology

(b) Please select the relevant Procedure Code(s) from the options below:P3 - Minor Conscious Intervention

3.2 List the specific geographic location(s) where the research will be carried out. All major eastern bristlebird population sites in NSW: Nadgee, Beecroft, Barren Grounds/Budderoo, Jervis Bay/Booderee, Border Ranges

3.3 Select from these options about the animals to be used in each 12-month approval period. More than one option may apply. ☐ General wildlife inventory for a specific purpose – species and number of animals will be provided retrospectively in

annual reports or as required by the AEC (Species Code table not required).

☐ Population estimate, survey or monitoring targeting specific taxa or species – number of animals will be providedretrospectively in annual reports or as required by the AEC (complete table below).

☒ Trial or experiment requiring a known species and maximum numbers of animals in each 12-month approval period(complete table below).

☐ Teaching or education – specify species and number of animals. If unknown, this information will be providedretrospectively in annual reports or as required by the AEC (complete table below).

Species Code Target Taxa or Species (if relevant) Sex (if known)

Age (if known)

Max number of animals (per 12-month approval period)

S20 - Native Wild - Birds Eastern bristlebird Choose an item

125

3.4 Using plain English explain the experimental design to justify why the above species and number of animals are required (not what will happen to individual animals which is covered in later questions). The AEC must be satisfied that the experimental design is appropriate for the research purpose(s) and aim(s). The project is a collaborative partnership between the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE), Queensland Department of Environment and Science (DES), Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS), Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), Zoos Victoria, Parks Australia and the Australian Department of Defence. The knowledge gained by collection and analysis of eastern bristlebird population genetics and parasite loads will inform the selection of founder birds for captive breeding and future potential translocation activities outlined in the National Recovery



v

Plan (OEH 2013). There have been two successful translocations in NSW, both of which have resulted in the creation of new populations birds within Beecroft peninsula, on Department of Defence land and in Sydney Water Catchment lands.

Genetics: In preliminary research, it was found that both northern and southern populations have low genetic diversity and are candidates for genetic rescue actions (Andrew Weeks, confidential report to DELWP, VIC 2020). While this analysis was based on 24 samples from the central Barren Grounds/Budderoo population, northern birds were only represented by 15 captive bred birds and southern birds were only represented by 5 historic samples from Nadgee, NSW plus 15 contemporary samples from Howe Flat, VIC. Therefore our current knowledge of eastern bristlebird genetics is incomplete, and additional samples are needed to characterize two key populations in central NSW (translocated population at Beecroft Defence site and founder population in Jervis Bay/Booderee National Parks). In addition, additional samples are needed to characterise the current genetics of the wild northern and southern populations. After extensive bush fires threatened both NSW and VIC southern populations in early 2020, DELWP and Zoos Victoria are planning additional sampling from the southern population over the Victorian border, and all samples will be processed by Andrew Weeks (cesar) using the same methods as in previous years. Samples from 20-25 birds at each site will allow researchers to answer the following key questions which will inform recommendations for gene mixing:

1. Has there been any loss in genetic diversity based on the 50 birds that were translocated to Beecroft, incomparison with the Jervis Bay source population? This will inform the founding of new translocatedpopulation(s) and captive breeding. The aim is to determine whether there has been a loss ofgenetic diversity between the reintroduced population (Beecroft) and the sourcepopulation (Jervis Bay) providing an indication of the contribution of the original foundergroup. This will provide valuable information pertaining to founder group size needed infuture translocations to ensure adequate genetic diversity is maintained.

2. Is the Jervis Bay population a good founder source for genetic enhancement of northern and southernpopulations? This information is needed to determine if gene mixing between Jervis Bay and Victoria isappropriate. We have determined recently (Weeks 2020) that the southern population haslost significant genetic diversity, but still shares many alleles (at 18 microsatellite loci)with the central population (Budderoo National Park). We therefore aim to firstdetermine levels of genetic diversity within the Jervis Bay population compared withother central populations and how this relates to the southern population. This analysiswill guide our choice of likely source populations based on recent research aroundgenetic mixing (e.g. Weeks et al. 2016; Ralls et al. 2018; Hoffmann et al. 2020) and advicefrom genetics specialists in this area (Dr. Andrew Weeks, cesar).

3. What are the genetic characteristics of the wild northern population? This information is unknown and will assitwith the current captive breeding program. The northern wild population has not beencharacterised sufficiently using genetic markers and therefore it is unknown how thispopulation relates to central and southern populations, and birds within thecurrent northern captive breeding program. This information will help guide decisionsaround sources of birds for the current captive program, which suffers from a lowfounder base and therefore is likely to be suffering inbreeding issues. Our aim isto build a captive breeding population that can support reintroductions and thereforethis population must be genetically robust (e.g. adequate founder base, high geneticdiversity, low inbreeding coefficients).

4. Is there any genetic diversity left in the Nadgee population after the southern fires. The current genetic make-up of this population is unknown, as only 5 historic samples have been analysed.

Answers to these first two questions are urgently needed to inform a revised translocation plan for genetic rescue of the Victorian population. The collection of genetic samples in summer will ensure that there is sufficient time for analysis and updated recommendations for translocation and gene mixing proposals due in March 2021.

To understand the genetic diversity and answer the questions above, allelic richness, heterozygosity and genetic differentiation will be determined from genotyping 18 microsatellite loci (Weeks 2017; Weeks 2019; Weeks 2020). There are genomic projects currently underway within eastern bristlebirds, and we may undertake SNP analyses with these same samples in the future, but currently these microsatellite loci provide sufficient resolution to make management decisions.

Disease: Recently, two fledgling and one adult Eastern Bristlebird held in captivity under the northern population breeding program died due to atoxoplasma gut parasite infections (CWS). Further testing revealed that all captive birds carry atoxoplasma, but most have only a low burden of the parasite. One sample from the a wild bird held by Zoos Victoria was



vi

also positive to atoxoplasma, with a low burden. It is possible that atoxoplasma infection is prevalent in all the wild populations, but it is always at a low burden and only impacts birds when they are exposed to extended stress and the parasite burden levels increase. However, field data for Eastern Bristlebirds is lacking. Research on the actual prevalence of atoxoplasma burden levels across wild populations is urgently needed to determine whether certain populations represent safe (low burden) founders suitable for translocation or stock for captive breeding.

Additional discussion of atoxoplasma is provided in the resubmission document addressing AEC concerns.

3.5 Are additional documents provided in support of this application? ☐ No☒ Yes Please list documents attached. Precise citations are required throughout this application if referring

to information in these documents.

References to methods listed in the literature:

Baker, J., & Clarke, J. (1999). Radio-tagging the eastern bristlebird: methodology and effects. Corella, 23, 25-31.

Bain, D., French, K., Baker, J., & Clarke, J. (2012). Translocation of the Eastern Bristlebird 1: radio-tracking of post-release movements. Ecological Management & Restoration, 13(2), 153-158.

Gubler, Z., Colbran, J., Ghamraoui, P., Beutel, A., & Booth, R. (2016). Eastern bristlebird Dasyornis brachypterus monoides husbandry guidelines. Updated by Beutal, A. for the northern eastern bristlebird recovery working group: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

Harrisson K, Magrath M, Yen J, Miller K, Cartwright K, & Sunnocks P. 2019. Lifetime fitness costs of inbreeding and being inbred in a critically endangered bird. Current Biology (2019), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2019.06.064

Lowe, KW (1989) The Australian Bird Bander’s Manual. https://www.eaaflyway.net/documents/resources/ABBBS_Bird_Bander's_Manual.pdf

McCabe, T. T. (1943). An aspect of collectors' technique. The Auk, 60(4), 550-558.

Ralls K, Ballou JD, Dudash MR et al. 2018. Call for a paradigm shift in the genetic management of fragmented populations. Conservation Letters 11(2); 1-6: e12412.

Weeks AR. 2020. Genetic analysis of eastern bristlebird samples from the southern population. A confidential report for the Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning Victoria by cesar Pty Ltd.

Weeks AR. 2019. Genetic assessment of wild central eastern bristlebird samples. A report to the Office of Environment and Heritage NSW by cesar Pty Ltd.

Weeks AR. 2017. Genetic assessment of the eastern bristlebird northern population captive breeding program. A report to the Office of Environment and Heritage NSW by cesar Pty Ltd.

Weeks AR, Stoklosa J, Hoffmann AA. 2016. Conservation of genetic uniqueness of populations may increase extinction likelihood of endangered species: the case of Australian mammals. Frontiers in Zoology 13: 31.

Go to Section 4

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2019.06.064https://www.eaaflyway.net/documents/resources/ABBBS_Bird_Bander's_Manual.pdf



vii

SECTION 4 – TECHNIQUES WITHOUT CAPTURE OR HANDLING

4.1 Does ANY PART of this project propose the use of animals without capture or handling, i.e. animals remain free-living while they are used? ☒ No Go to Section 5 ☐ Yes Please complete the table(s) below.

TABLE 1 – Standard techniques

Technique Effort at each site (per day)

Number of days or nights proposed (per session)

Max number of sessions proposed (per year)

Choose an item Provide number and units of effort

TABLE 2 – Non-standard techniques

Technique Effort at each site (per day)

Number of days or nights proposed (per session)

Max number of sessions proposed (per year)

Provide number and units of effort

4.2 Are any non-standard techniques or variations proposed to techniques described in the current EES AEC Standard techniques for fauna surveys and trapping? ☐ No Go to Section 5 ☐ Yes Please justify and fully explain the non-standard technique(s) below.

4.3 Based on your selection above, is it proposed to use a hair sampling device e.g. hair tube? ☐ No☐ Yes Justification for the use of this technique is required because of the risk of non-target species by-

catch. Please provide below.

Go to Section 5

http://insite.environment.nsw.gov.au/OEH/Policy/Documents/OEH-AEC-Standard-Techniques-Fauna-Survey-Trapping.pdfhttp://insite.environment.nsw.gov.au/OEH/Policy/Documents/OEH-AEC-Standard-Techniques-Fauna-Survey-Trapping.pdf



viii

SECTION 5 – TECHNIQUES WITH CAPTURE AND HANDLING

5.1 Does ANY PART of this project propose capture or handling of animals, i.e. animals DO NOT remain free-living while they are used? ☐ No Go to Section 7 ☒ Yes Please complete the table(s) below.

TABLE 1 – Standard technique

Technique Number of traps set (per site)

Max number of sites operating (simultaneously)

Min number of people tending traps

Frequency/time of checking

Max number of days or nights (per session)

Max number of sessions (per year)

Mist nets 1 4 3 Continuous 7 5

TABLE 2 – Non-standard technique

Technique Number of traps set (per site)

Max number of sites operating (simultaneously)

Min number of people tending traps

Frequency/time of checking

Max number of days or nights (per session)

Max number of sessions (per year)

5.2

Are any non-standard techniques or variations proposed to techniques described in the current EES AEC Standard techniques for fauna surveys and trapping? ☐ No☒ Yes Please justify and fully explain the non-standard method(s) below.

Song playback will be used to attract birds to the nets. This technique will increase capture success and reduce theamount of time spent in each bird’s territory. Songs will be played on a speaker on the opposite site of the net to the bird’slocation. This is a standard technique for Eastern Bristlebirds and has been used extensively.

5.3

(a) How long will it take to clear all traps once? (i.e. clear simultaneously set traps at all sites)

Mist nets will be cleared immediately upon bird capture, which usually takes a maximum of 3 minutes.

(b)

How long will it take to process each animal?

Processing birds from mist nets will be completed in approximately 20 minutes. During this period individuals are removedfrom nets, weighed, standard body measurements are taken, eye colour checked, body condition assessed and a legband applied. During this time, a maximum of six body pin feathers will be taken and a cloacal swab taken fordetermination of gut parasite loads.

(c) What data will be collected from each animal and how it will be collected? (e.g. if measurements are to becollected, explain how this will be done and what equipment will be used)Experimental methodology:

1.Mist netting will be used to capture eastern bristlebirds within five regions: 1. Jervis Bay and BoodereeNational Parks, NSW, 2. Beecroft Weapons Range, Department of Defence, NSW, 3. Barren Ground NatureReserve/Budderoo National Park, NSW and 4. Border Ranges, multiple properties, NSW 5. Nadgee Nature Reserve, NSW

2. Within the large and stable central populations in NSW (sites 1-3), mist netting will begin in summer, in orderto inform urgent research aims (determination of genetics and disease status of possible source birds for translocationsand captive breeding). Mist netting will be conducted in April-June in the Border Ranges and Nadgee to avoid the breedingseason of these critically small populations (as low as 40 individuals). Week long time slots at known active bristlebirdlocations within the sites will ensure sufficient numbers of birds will be sampled for analysis.

3. Birds will be captured and placed in clean cloth holding bags before standard morphological and conditionmeasures will be collected. Birds will be measured and sampled while out of the holding bags.

4. Birds will be released immediately at the completion of all measures/samples being collected

5. A maximum of 25 (Barren Grounds & Jervis Bay) and 20 (all other sites) individuals will be banded andreleased at each site.

http://insite.environment.nsw.gov.au/OEH/Policy/Documents/OEH-AEC-Standard-Techniques-Fauna-Survey-Trapping.pdfhttp://insite.environment.nsw.gov.au/OEH/Policy/Documents/OEH-AEC-Standard-Techniques-Fauna-Survey-Trapping.pdf



ix

6. Evidence of active nests or the presence of fledglings will result in the immediate closure of nets andtermination of capture effort in that territory for that trapping session.

Sampling locations:

The central populations of Eastern Bristlebird are the largest and most stable populations (>2,000 Barren Grounds/Budderoo; >1500 Jervis Bay/Booderee NPs and Beecroft). For those sites, the summer field season has the potential for short-term interruptions (



x

Figure 1: Holding bag used for short term holding of Eastern Bristlebird individuals and size 7 aluminum bands similar to ABBBS bands used for Eastern Bristlebird identification (Photos: A. Beutel).

5.4

What steps will be taken to minimise stress in the animals captured or handled?

Birds will be handled gently and by experienced personnel only. At northern Border Ranges sites, mist netting will be conducted outside of the breeding season (breeding season occurs from August-February) to avoid capture of breeding adults and reduce chances of nesting adults being captured and stressed. At central population sites, territorial birds will be observed for evidence of nests or fledglings nearby before capture. If signs of nesting activity are observed, trapping at that particular territory will be abandoned immediately. Based on observations of wild nesting bristlebirds, birds incubating on nests were not found to be responsive to playback and are unlikely to be attracted to nets and be captured (Maute, personal communication).

Nets will be set up and operated by a mist net trained and endorsed person only (ABBBS qualification). The capture of birds will be focused on the first 5 hrs after sunrise to coincide with high Eastern Bristlebird activity. However, to improve the efficacy of disease sampling, afternoon netting will be trialed at all locations. This will not be extended beyond 1.5 hours before sunset to ensure all captured birds are released well before the end of the day. Taped calls will be played to attract birds to the net, with nets checked continuously during operation to minimise distress and the risk of injury. Birds will be carefully extracted and moved as described in Section D –D4 “Transportation and acclimatisation of animals” and D5 “Housing of animals” of Lowe (1989). Once removed from nets, a passerine grip (see photo) will be used with firm but gentle pressure.

Once captured in mist nets (using same technique described above for ‘mist netting’) birds will be immediately removed from nets and placed in cloth catch bags. The nets will be furled while operators are processing captured birds to prevent bycatch.

Eastern Bristlebirds moult easily in response to handling, and have obvious signs of stress including open mouth breathing (see photo). If signs of stress are observed (gaping, fluffed up appearance), birds will be released immediately without processing.



xi

Figure 2: Passerine grip used to handle Eastern Bristlebird and open mouth breathing stress response (Photos: A. Beutel).

Bycatch birds will be immediately extracted to minimise stress and injury and released at the capture site unless predatory bird species are present (in which case they will be placed in a calico bag and carried up to 50 m away before release into dense vegetation).

Should any bird appear excessively stressed during the trapping procedures (i.e. lethargic with closed eyes or open mouth breathing), it will be immediately placed in a hospital cage and monitored to check it recovers within 30 mins. Monitoring will be done by a person with experience in bird care/husbandry. Upon recovery, it will be released without being subjected to any further data collection. Should the bird not appear to recover within 30 minutes, it will be transported by car to a pre-identified veterinary clinic that has experience with treating wildlife. Any bird that is injured during netting or processing will receive basic field first aid (e.g. leg splinting to reduce pain), following advice sought from either a nominated wildlife veterinarian or wildlife care organisation as soon as possible.

5.5

How, where and when will animals be released and how will their wellbeing be monitored after release?

Bristlebirds will be released at the point of capture within 30 minutes, unless they require veterinary treatment (see section 6). All bycatch will be released immediately. We are unable to monitor welfare after release, as birds will leave the netting area and are shy, ground dwelling birds.

5.6 Will animals be transported over any distance (including short distances e.g. capture site to/from base camp)? ☒ No☐ Yes Please explain why, where to and how below.

5.7 Will animals be held captive for any period (including for short periods e.g. for identification purposes or to allow release at suitable time of day)? ☒ No☐ Yes Please answer questions below.

(a) Explain when and why it will be necessary to hold animals captive:

(b) The location where animals will be held captive:

(c) The maximum time each animal will be held captive:

(d) Describe the animal housing and husbandry (e.g. diet, temperature regimes, moisture regulation, type andsize of holding containers, and hygiene arrangements).

5.8 Will any samples be taken from animals such as blood, tissue or microbiological samples? ☐ No☒ Yes Please complete table and answer questions below.

Type of sample

Purpose Amount Anatomical point on animal where sample will be taken

Number of individual animals to be sampled

Number of samples from each animal

Sample storage conditions (e.g. refrigeration 4°C, ethanol 100%, etc.)

Sample storage location

Sample or tissue sharing opportunities

Feathers Genetic relatedness of all populations will be compared to inform captive breeding

6 body pin feathers

On body, not wings or tail (avoid flight feathers)

22 at Barren Grounds and Jervis Bay, 20 for all other sites, or 110 total.

See attachment

Maximum of six pin feathers

Paper envelopes at room temperature, posted to laboratory for -20C storage

Samples sent to Andrew Weeks, University of Melbourne

None identified, but samples and data may be shared



xii

parings and the ideal source individuals for translocation to and genetic rescue of the Victorian population

detailing the proportion this represents of each population

Microbiological swabs

Identification of gut parasite loads, as above

One per bird? Cloacal swab 25 at Barren Grounds and Jervis Bay, 20 for all other sites, or 110 total

Maximum of one

Liquid storage medium, frozen until analysed

Samples sent to CWS hospital

None identified, but data could be shared

(a) Explain the method (including disinfection procedures) and equipment used to take samples.No special equipment is used to take samples, but disposable gloves will be used when hand collecting feathers andcloacal swabs. All holding bags are washed in bleach solution before use, and all swabs will be sterile before use.Measurement rulers and calipers will be wiped down with 70% ethanol solution between use on individual birds.

(b) List the relevant training and experience with this technique of person(s) taking samples.

Name of person taking samples Sample type Relevant training and experience with the sampling technique

All ABBBS class A banders Feathers All banders have worked with small songbirds for many years and can identify body pin feathers suitable for removal

Anthony Molyneux (CWS Wildlife Manager), Kimberly Maute and other banders who will be trained if not experienced

Microbiological swabs Named personnel have multiple years experience collecting cloacal swabs from small songbirds and seabird chicks. Other banders without cloacal swab experience will be shown the technique in the field.

5.9 Will drugs or other substances be used (including disinfectant agents)? ☒ No☐ Yes Please complete table and answer questions below.

Generic drug name(s) (Brand name)

Poisons schedule

Purpose Route of administration

Anatomical point on animal for drug delivery Note: specify needle gauge for all injectable drugs

Dose rate (mg/kg)

Choose an item Choose an item

(a) Explain the procedure for administering drugs and how risks will be managed and mitigated.

(b) List the relevant training and experience of person(s) administering drugs. The purchase, possession andadministration of S4 and S8 drugs are restricted to veterinarians or other approved persons.

Name of person administering drugs Generic drug name (Brand name) Training and experience with administering this or similar drug(s)

5.10 Will animals be marked, tagged, microchipped or banded? (Tracking devices are covered in Question 5.11) ☐ No☒ Yes Please complete table and answer questions below.



xiii

Method Type (e.g. brand, type, needle gauge)

Number of animals to be marked

Anatomical point on animal's body where mark will be made

TEMPORARY Choose an item PERMANENT ABBBS band Size 7 metal band 25 per site or 125 maximum Lower tarsus

(a) Attach or copy and paste photograph of (i) equipment and (ii) a marked animal if marking method ispermanent.

Figure 3: Photograph of bristlebirds wearing ABBBS bands (Darryl Whitaker/DELWP)

(b) List the relevant training and experience of the person(s) marking animals (e.g. microchip training, ABBBSlicence).

Name of person marking animals Marking method Relevant training and experience with marking method

Anthony Molyneux (CWS Wildlife Manager) ABBBS band 19 years ABBBS A-class bander, has banded bristlebirds in the past 12 months

Dr Damon Oliver (DPIE Eastern Bristlebird SOS Site Manager)

ABBBS band 29 years experience ABBBS A-class bander, has banded bristlebirds

Dr Kimberly Maute (University of Wollongong)

ABBBS band 19 years USA and ABBBS A-class bander, has banded bristlebirds in 2020

Allison Beutel (CWS) ABBBS band Extensive experience banding captive birds in the northern breeding population

Dr Mellisa Giese (DPIE) ABBBS band Previous holder of an ABBBS A-Class authority and extensive experience



xiv

Dr David Bain (DPIE) ABBBS band Previous holder of an R-Class ABBBS authority and extensive experience banding bristlebirds for PhD project

5.11 Will a tracking or recording device be attached to any animals? ☒ No☐ Yes Please complete table and answer questions below.

Type of device (transmitter on collar, glued or fixed, etc.) Purpose Brand/model Number of animals to have device fitted Placement of device on animal’s body Weight of animal (g) Weight of device (g) Dimensions of device (mm) Device percentage of animal’s bodyweight Duration of attachment Method of device retrieval

(a) Explain the device attachment method and procedures for handling the animal during fitting.

(b) Explain the method for detaching or retrieving the device and procedures for handling the animal duringremoval.

(c) Attach or copy and paste photographs or diagrams of the device and attachment method.

(d) List the relevant training and experience of the person(s) fitting/removing the tracking device in the followingtable.

Name of personnel fitting tracking device Relevant training and experience

5.12 The wellbeing of animals involved in all parts of the project must be monitored and assessed throughout. Please specify the following:

Frequency of monitoring Mist netting, processing and sampling of birds will involve continuous monitoring. Furled nets will not be left unattended at any time.

Specific criteria to monitor the wellbeing of animals Stress levels in birds will be evaluated by behavioural assessment as specified in 5.4 above.

Specific criteria for intervention If birds show signs of excessive stress they will be placed in a hospital cage for recovery and then released without further processing. If they continue to show excessive stress after 30 minutes, they will be taken for veterinary assessment.

Action to be taken if intervention is required Basic first aid will be provided on advice from a wildlife carer until veterinary care is provided.

Person(s) responsible for care and monitoring of animals All persons involved in the project are responsible for the care and monitoring of birds at all times.

5.13 What will happen to animals at the end of the study? Released at original site of capture

(a) Is rehousing required? Rehousing must comply with Section 3.4.2 – 3.4.3 of the Code.☒ No☐ Yes Please provide details below.

http://insite.environment.nsw.gov.au/OEH/Policy/Documents/Code-Of-Practice-2013.pdf



xv

Go to Section 6



xvi

SECTION 6 – EMERGENCY CARE FOR SICK OR INJURED ANIMALS

6.1 There is an inherent risk in all animal research that, during a research activity, an animal may be injured or severely harmed. Considering this risk in the context of the research proposed in this application, which method(s) of humane killing would be used for each species or taxa if this became necessary on welfare grounds?

☒ Sick or injured animals will be transported to a veterinarian for assessment, treatment or euthanasia. Anappropriate animal carrier / cage / bag and transport vehicle will be readily available. A veterinarian is located withinreasonable distance which will minimise the time an injured animal may suffer. Confirmation has been / will be obtainedfrom the named veterinary practice(s) that staff are willing and able to aid injured animals under this protocol.

Complete table below.

Name of veterinary practice(s)

Relevant veterinary speciality Distance from field site (km) Transport method

Cannon & Ball Veterinary Surgeons Mike Cannon

Avian 30 km from Barren Ground/Budderoo, or 110km from Jervis Bay/Beecroft/Booderee

vehicle

Kyogle Veterinary Clinic Avian 40 km from Border Ranges vehicle Currumbin Wildlife Centre Vet Hospital

Avian



xvii

Go to Section 7



xviii

SECTION 7 – ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS

7.1 Explain why the use of animals is essential to achieve the aims of this project and describe the steps taken to apply the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement). If less invasive alternative methods or procedures exist, explain why they are not being used. All parts of this question must be answered regardless of the procedures proposed. • 1 Replacement alternatives are methods that permit a given purpose of an activity or project to be achieved without the

use of animals• 2 Reduction alternatives are methods for obtaining comparable levels of information from the use of fewer animals in

scientific procedures or for obtaining more information from the same number of animals• 3 Refinement alternatives are methods that alleviate or minimise potential pain and distress, and enhance animal

wellbeing

The use of animals in this project is essential because: It is not possible to use surrogates for understanding the genetic makeup or prevalence of disease in the wild populations.

Replacement 1 alternatives: It is not possible to replace birds and answer our research questions about wild populations.

Reduction 2 alternatives: The use of 25 birds is the minimum recommended to enable robust genetic comparisons between populations (Andrew Weeks, personal communication). This number has been reduced to 20 in the smaller populations to help mitigate any potential impacts from the capture on the population. While the minimum number of birds needed to determine disease prevalence is unknown without baseline data from at least one population, the detection of no parasites in 25 birds would suggest that prevalence is below 4% and therefore very low compared to levels seen in the captive population. In addition, the previous capture of 24 individuals from the Barren Grounds/Budderoo population for genetic analysis in 2019 did not did not survey for gut parasite prevalence, hence the need to re-sample birds from this site in 2020-21.

Refinement 3 alternatives: All capture and release methods are the least invasive possible. Pin feathers will be taken as opposed to blood sampling, as this is less likely to result in additional bleeding or heamatomas. Because so little is known about bristlebird populations, it is important to non-invasively collect as much genetic material as possible. While Barren Grounds/Budderoo population genetics are known from 24 samples collected in 2019, collecting further genetic samples from birds that will be captured for gut parasite load determination will ensure that any future genetic sampling needs are reduced. As this population is currently favoured as a source population for the northern captive breeding genetic rescue program, additional information on the genetic diversity of this source population will be instrumental in determining gene mixing priorities in captivity. Cloacal swabl sampling will be undertaken as a standardized method of determining gut parasite loads, as holding birds for longer periods in order to collect faecal samples will cause more stress than collecting a swab. Northern and Southern population sampling is planned to take place outside the breeding season to avoid interruptions to breeding behaviour within these small populations. The small amount of time spent within potential breeding territories at the large central populations will minimise any potential disruptions. Observations of captive birds show that pairs rapidly re-clutch when young are taken, suggesting that in the very unlikely event that disturbance causes nest failure, the overall population dynamics of the large populations will not be impacted by our sampling methods.

7.2 Have any of the animals been used in a previous study? ☒ No To the extent it can be known animals in this study have not been used in a previous study. ☐ Yes Please provide details below.

There is a low possibility that sampling of Barren Grounds/Budderoo adults could recapture individuals that werecaptured in the 2019 collection of genetic samples.

7.3 Explain the potential impacts on the welfare of the target animals and how these impacts will be avoided or minimised. Address experimental and non-experimental factors. Capture, measurement and sampling may cause temporary stress to eastern bristlebirds. Stress will be minimised by quiet and quickly processing birds, during which signs of capture stress will be closely monitored. All banders are highly experienced in mist netting and handling of songbirds, and nets will be constantly monitored. At northern and southern sites, sampling will occur outside of the breeding season, to ensure that there is less risk of disturbance to breeding within these small and sensitive populations.

7.4 Explain the potential impacts on the welfare of non-target animals and how these impacts will be minimised. Address experimental and non-experimental factors. Non-target impacts are limited to mist-net bycatch. All non-target bird species will be extracted and released immediately to reduce the likelihood of stress or injury.



xix

7.5 Is death as an endpoint (see definition in box above) part of this proposal (e.g. lethality testing or LD50 studies)? ☒ No☐ Yes Please justify why this is necessary and give full details below.

Go to Section 8



xx

SECTION 8 – LICENCES AND PERMITS

8.1 Have any persons participating in this animal research had an Animal Research Authority or an Animal Supply Licence cancelled or rescinded? ☒ No☐ Yes Please provide details below.

8.2 The Principal Investigator must ensure all licences and/or permits required by EES and/or other authorities are obtained. Are licences or permits required? ☐ No☒ Yes Please complete table below. ☐ An EES employee exemption from licencing applies under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

Issuing authority Name of holder Permit number Licence (Type/Class/Level)

Expiry date or approval pending

NSW, National Parks and Wildlife Service

David Bain All other personnel involved in field work will be listed in the SL schedule

TBD – application in progress

Scientific License issued under Part 2 of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016

Click to enter a date

ABBBS Damon Oliver 2278 Banding and mist netting authority

1 July 2021

ABBBS Anthony Molyneux Banding and mist netting 1 July 2021 ABBBS Kimberly Maute 2731 Banding and mist netting 1 July 2021 ABBBS Martine Marone 2481 Banding and mist netting 1 July 2021

8.3 Where will animals be obtained from for this project? Free-living wildlife population(s) in NSW.

(a) Based on your selection above, will a holding or breeding facility be used?☒ No☐ Yes Please complete the table below.

Name and location of holding or breeding facility

Species Code Sex (if known)

Age (if known)

Number of animals

Animal Supply Licence details for EES or other institution

Choose an item Choose an item

Go to Section 9

http://insite.environment.nsw.gov.au/OEH/Policy/Documents/Scientific-Licensing-OEH-Employee-Exemption.pdfhttps://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/%7E/view/act/2016/63



xxi

SECTION 9 – PERSONNEL IMPORTANT: • Comprehensive details of relevant qualifications and experience of personnel must be provided to demonstrate to the EES AEC that

the nominated person/s possess an appropriate level of skill to competently carry out procedures involving animals under the AnimalResearch Authority issued for this project. If a person has limited relevant experience, state who will be responsible for providingtraining and supervision.

• Evidence of qualifications, training and experience may be requested.• Do not list personnel in support roles if they have no interaction with live animals e.g. technical advisors, field support.

Personnel role (See Note 1 above)

Name and contact information

List the procedures or techniques to be undertaken (See Note 2 above)

List the qualifications and experience or training/ supervision to be provided relevant to the species and procedure to be undertaken (See Note 3 above)

Principal Investigator Dr David Bain Senior Threatened Species Officer

Mist netting, banding, handling and sampling birds

PhD on translocation of the Eastern Bristlebird. Four years experience mist- netting Eastern Bristlebirds (ABBBS R-class bander for 4 years), transporting birds and taking blood. Assisted with observation and trapping (mist netting), handling and sampling of eastern bristlebirds in 2019

Associate Investigator Dr Damon Oliver Senior Team Leader, Ecosystems and Threatened Species, South


29 years mist netting and bird handling experience. ABBBS A-class bander. Assisted with observation and trapping (mist netting), handling and sampling of eastern bristlebird 2019, as well as previous bristlebird mist netting surveys

Associate Investigator Kelly Roche Senior Threatened Species Officer

mist netting, handling and sampling birds

BAppSc Environmental Management. Recent experience includes observation, trapping (mist netting, handling and sampling of eastern bristlebirds in 2019)

Associate Investigator Anthony Molyneux Currumbin Wildife Centre Wildlife Manager – Captive Breeding Program Partner

Mist netting, banding, handling and sampling of birds

ABBBS A-Class bander for 19 years. Assisted with mist netting, banding and sampling of eastern bristlebirds in 2019. Experience cloacal swabbing of Eastern Bristlebirds

Associate Investigator Allison Beutel Currumbin Wildlife Centre- Captive Breeding Program Partner

Mist netting, handling, sampling, health and welfare of birds

Assisted with observation and trapping (mist netting) and handling birds, banding and transportation of eastern bristlebirds in 2019. Extensive experience managing captive bred birds and hand rearing eastern bristlebirds

Associate Investigator Dr Melissa Giese Senior Team Leader, Ecosystems and Threatened Species North East

Mist netting, handling and sampling of birds

PhD on behavioural and physiological response of seabirds to stress/disturbance. Bird handling experience. Previously held ABBBS A- class banding authority



xxii

Associate Investigator Dr Kimberly Maute Associate Research Fellow, University of Wollongong

Mist netting, handling, banding and sampling of birds

19 years sonbird banding experience, ABBBS A-class bander for 13 years. Assisted with mist netting, banding, sampling and transportation of bristlebirds in 2019-2020. Experience in cloacal swab collection from birds and reptiles 2017-present.

Associate Investigator David Charley Wildsearch Ecological Consultants

Mist netting and handling birds BSC and expert ornithologist, 18 years experience in surveying eastern bristlebird and habitat management. Trained by CWS bird experts to collect eggs/chicks and use of incubator, with subsequent trappilng experience for the bristlebird program.

Associate Investigator Lynn Baker Partner and Detection Dog Handler at Canines for wildlife

Mist netting and handling birds Previous principal investigator, MSc, 20 years experience with management and field collection/surveys for eastern bristlebird. Assisted with observation and trapping (mist netting) and handling birds, banding and transportation of eastern bristlebirds

Associate Investigator Dr Jai Sleeman Local Land Services Project Manager Eastern Bristlebird

Mist netting and handling birds Undertook a week-long fauna survey at Moorinya National Park in QLD. Techniques used included bird identification, mist netting and working in a team to ethically handle, measure & band birds to minimise stress. Assisted with observation, mist netting, handling and transport of birds in 2019.

Associate Investigator Stephen King NPWS Ranger Mist netting and handling birds BSC and 13 years of experience as Ranger managing eastern bristlebird habitat and assisting in surveys. Trainined by CWS bird experts to collect eggs/chicks and use of incubator. No mist netting experience. Assisted with captive bred eastern bristlebird soft release at Grassy Spur in 2008, transporting birds releasing them from cages to field aviaries. Has extracted bristlebirds from Elliot traps (bycatch) at Border Loop. Mist netting and bird handling training will be provided by more experienced associates

Associate Investigator Prof Martine Maron Academic Partner


Mist netting and bird handling experience. ABBBS A-class bander. Assisted with observation and trapping (mist netting) and handling birds, banding and transportation of eastern bristlebirds 2019

mailto:[email protected]



xxiii

Associate Investigator Dion Maple, Natural Resources Team Leader, Parks Australia.

Mist netting, handling and sampling birds

Fifteen years of wildlife monitoring and handling experience. Limited songbird handling and mist netting experience, however, experienced with handling and care of seabirds. Will assist ABBBS qualified associates under supervision as required

Associate Investigator George Malolakis, NPWS Ranger, Nadgee Nature Reserve,

Mist netting, handling and sampleing birds

Over 20 years experience surveying for eastern bristlebirds and animal handling experience. Will assist ABBBS banders with mist netting and will handle birds if needed under the supervison and training of banders.

Associate Investigator David McCreery, Senior project officer, Threatened Species NSW NPWS

Mist netting, handling and sampling birds

Over 10 years experience monitoring and handling wildlife. Will assist ABBBS qualified banders as required.

Go to Section 10

mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]



xxiv

SECTION 10 – CERTIFICATION BY MANAGER OF PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR I have read this application in full and understand the work proposed.

I confirm that:

● The work is justified in terms of EES priorities.● The researchers and investigators have appropriate qualifications and expertise.● The proposal contains satisfactory review mechanisms.● Adequate resources will be available to carry out the project including mandatory reporting to the EES AEC.● This work does not impinge on any other research.

Manager's Name Manager’s Role Title Signature Date

James Dawson Senior Team Leader

17 September 2020

Go to Section 11



xxv

SECTION 11 – DECLARATION BY PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR Investigators are authorised to work under the Animal Research Authority issued for this project ONLY if they have signed this declaration.

I certify that the use of animals in this project will conform to the Animal Research Act 1985, Animal Research Regulation 2010 and Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes (NHMRC 2013) (the Code).

I accept responsibility for the conduct of all procedures detailed in this application and for the supervision of all personnel delegated to perform any such procedures.

I confirm that:

● I am familiar, and will comply, with the requirements of the Code.● All current personnel are familiar, and will comply, with the requirements of the Code, have read this application and have

agreed to comply with the procedures described and any conditions imposed by the EES Animal Ethics Committee.● All future personnel will be required to be familiar, and comply with, the requirements of the Code, read and agree to

comply with the procedures described and any conditions imposed by the EES Animal Ethics Committee.● I have read, understood and will comply with the responsibilities of a Principal Investigator as outlined below.

The Principal Investigator has ultimate responsibility for the welfare of animals used under this Animal Research Authority.

Additional responsibilities of the Principal Investigator include:

• ensuring that the project has appropriate approvals and sign offs from within EES• obtaining licences and permits• advising the EES AEC of any deviation from the approved application, opportunistic research, unexpected adverse events or emergencies• submitting renewal applications and reports to the EES AEC on time and as often as required• ensuring that the application to the EES AEC has been read, understood and signed by their Manager and all Associate Investigators• ensuring that all people participating in the project are appropriately trained, supervised and informed about future amendments to the approved

protocol.

Name Principal Investigator(s) Signature Date

David Bain

17 September 2020

Go to Section 12

https://www.animalethics.org.au/policies-and-guidelines/wildlife-research/opportunistic-research



xxvi

SECTION 12 – DECLARATION BY ASSOCIATE INVESTIGATOR(S) Investigators are authorised to work under the Animal Research Authority issued for this project ONLY if they have signed this declaration. Signatures should be submitted with the original application.

I certify that the use of animals in this project will conform to the Animal Research Act 1985, Animal Research Regulation 2010 and Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes (NHMRC 2013) (the Code).

I accept responsibility for the conduct of procedures detailed in this application and for the supervision of all personnel I delegate to perform any such procedures.

I confirm that:

● I am familiar, and will comply, with the requirements of the Code.● I have read and fully understood this application and agree to comply with the procedures described and any conditions

imposed by the EES Animal Ethics Committee.

Name Associate Investigator(s) Signature Date

Damon Oliver

17 Sept 2020Click to enter a date

Kelly Roche Click to enter a date

Anthony Molyneux 17 September 2020

Melissa Giese

17 September 2020

Kimberly Maute 17 September 2020

David Charley Click to enter a date

Lynn Baker

17 September 2020

Jai Sleeman 21 September 2020

Stephen King

18 September 2020

Martine Maron

17 September 2020

Dion Maple 21 September 2020

George Malolakis 18 Sept 2020

David McCreery Click to enter a date



xxvii

Allison Beutel 17 September 2020

END OF FORM

Date post:	05-Feb-2021
Category:	Documents
Upload:	others
View:	0 times
Download:	0 times