Behavioural Responses of Varanids to Mine Site Restoration

Abstract

Animals play critical roles in ecosystems, yet they are often overlooked in assessments of habitat restoration success. I mapped habitat usage and used camera trapping and VHF/GPS tracking to assess the ecological and behavioural responses of varanids to habitat restoration. Although restored habitats were in use, these areas were used less frequently and with altered behaviour in comparison to reference sites. Providing increased fauna refuges to areas undergoing restoration may aid in returning varanid populations.