We sequenced the ND2 gene from 179 velvet geckos, to clarify the lizards' phylogeographic history and landscape genetics.
Velvet geckos (Oedura lesueurii) are a primary prey for the endangered broad-headed snake ( Hoplocephalus bungaroides), which is restricted to sandstone habitats in southeastern Australia. To conserve critically endangered predators, we also need to conserve the prey species upon which they depend. Phylogeography and dispersal in the velvet gecko (Oedura lesueurii), and potential implications for conservation of an endangered snake ( Hoplocephalus bungaroides).ĭubey, Sylvain Croak, Benjamin Pike, David Webb, Jonathan Shine, Richard Despite many consistencies, the ecology of this species differs enough between southern and northern extremes of its range that managers need to incorporate information on local features to most effectively conserve this threatened reptile. Our snakes showed non-random preferences both in terms of macrohabitat (e.g., avoidance of some vegetation types) and microhabitat (e.g., frequent use of hollow-bearing trees). Intervals between successive displacements were longer than in the southern snakes but dispersal distances per move and home ranges were similar. Thermal regimes within retreat-sites support the hypothesis that this shift is thermally driven. Snakes spent most of winter beneath sun-warmed rocks then shifted to tree hollows in summer. We captured and radio-tracked 9 adult broad-headed snakes at sites in the northern part of the species' distribution, to evaluate the generality of results from prior studies, and to identify critical habitat components for this northern population. Previous research on this endangered taxon was done at a single site in the extreme south of the species' geographic range. The broad-headed snake ( Hoplocephalus bungaroides) is restricted to a specialized habitat (sandstone outcrops and nearby forests) within a small geographic range in south-eastern Australia. For many endangered species, information on habitat use either is sparse, or is based upon studies from a small part of the species' range. Movements and habitat use of an endangered snake, Hoplocephalus bungaroides (Elapidae): implications for conservation.Ĭroak, Benjamin M Crowther, Mathew S Webb, Jonathan K Shine, RichardĪ detailed understanding of how extensively animals move through the landscape, and the habitat features upon which they rely, can identify conservation priorities and thus inform management planning. We captured and radio-tracked 9 adult broad-headed snakes at sites in the northern part of the species’ distribution, to evaluate the generality of results from prior studies, and to identify critical habitat components for this northern population. Previous research on this endangered taxon was done at a single site in the extreme south of the species’ geographic range. For many endangered species, information on habitat use either is sparse, or is based upon studies from a small part of the species’ range. Shine, RichardĪ detailed understanding of how extensively animals move through the landscape, and the habitat features upon which they rely, can identify conservation priorities and thus inform management planning. Movements and Habitat Use of an Endangered Snake, Hoplocephalus bungaroides (Elapidae): Implications for ConservationĬroak, Benjamin M.
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