Objectives: The fundamental aim of this project is to combine genetic and demographic
data about NSW Little Penguins to forecast likely population changes under a range of
possible natural and anthropogenic threats.
To target this aim, genetic data on population size and connectivity between Little Penguin
populations in NSW will be collected (1), along with demographic data on population size,
mortality and dispersal using data in existing databases and additional surveys (2).
Furthermore, genetic estimates obtained in (1) will be combined with estimates based on
data collected in (2).
Finally, these data will be incorporated into a population viability analysis (PVA) model to
evaluate the likely outcomes of different threats and management strategies. The project will
therefore help accomplish the objectives of a Recovery Plan for the endangered Manly Little
Penguins, i.e. research into the ecology of the population. Specifically, by looking at the level
of gene flow and migration between the Manly and other NSW penguin populations, the
impact of threats and management strategies can be assessed.
Description of Action: Genetic samples (feather pulp or blood) and demographic data of
several Little Penguin populations in NSW will be collected using the least invasive sampling
method that still supplies samples of sufficient quality. Data will be analysed for connectivity
between the different sites. Approximately 50-100 individual penguins will be sampled per
population and available demographic data will be extended by those acquired during this
project. There will be the possibility to repeat sampling in the following seasons to complete the
data set and improve the quality of estimates such as population size, survival and gene flow
between populations, which are important factors to incorporate in a final Population Viability
Analysis for the Manly population.
Specifically, genetic samples of 50-100 Little Penguins on Bowen Island will be collected
either from moult feathers in front of burrows or by capturing the birds:
A. Methods of pursuit and capture
Penguins will either be removed from their burrow/nest box, which they remain in when they
are at the colony in daylight hours, or captured as they are coming ashore in the evening. To
do this, plastic mesh of 5 cm diameter will be erected along the back of the beach. As the
penguins reach a specific area along the fence, they will be corralled. Penguins are captured
by holding them loosely with a one handed open grip at the neck. The other hand is placed
under their feet to support their weight. Captured penguins will be removed from the
corralled area, placed in large plastic tubs with adequate ventilation, and moved to an area
with sufficient light.
B. Measurements and sampling
The penguins are manually restrained by placing a loose hood over their head and holding
them firmly on your lap. Morphometric measurements are taken with a tape measure. A
genetic sample will be collected by plucking a feather (quill grasped next to skin, pulled
straight outward to avoid breaking the quill) or collecting a small sample of blood (ca. 100
microlitres) from the metatarsal vein by pricking it with a sterile needle.
C. Identification
In case the non-invasive method by Roth & Amrhein, 2010 cannot be applied to the Little
Penguin system, a traditional mark-recapture survey will have to be used to estimate
survival. Each individual will then be checked for identification (bird band or implanted
microchip - scanner moved over them). Penguins with no ID will get a Passive Integrated
Transponder (PIT) microchip implant. For that, the microchip will be injected under the
penguin's skin using a sterile needle.
D. Release
After all procedures are complete each bird will be placed back in the tub. Birds will not be
kept in tubs for longer than 30 minutes. Once captured birds are processed they will be
released as a group at the beach they were taken from.
Additionally, there is the possibility to conduct opportunistic sampling. If during the time of
the proposed project, dead animals or broken eggs are found, genetic samples will also be
taken from them and incorporated in our data set.
(Marsden & May, 1984; Taberlet & Bouvet, 1991)
References:
Marsden, J. E., & May, B. (1984). Feather Pulp : A Non-Destructive Sampling Technique for
Electrophoretic Studies of Birds. The Auk, 101(1), 173-175.
Roth, T., & Amrhein, V. (2010). Estimating individual survival using territory occupancy data
on unmarked animals. Journal of Applied Ecology, 47(2), 386-392. doi:10.1111/j.13652664.2010.01786.x
Taberlet, P., & Bouvet, J. (1991). A Single Plucked Feather as a Source of DNA for Bird
Genetic Studies. The Auk, 108(October), 959-960.