Application for Scientific Permit – Available for Public Comment
Public comment on the following application for a Scientific Research (Fauna) Permit is open until 10 October
Applicant: Environmental Canines Pty Ltd
Species/Taxon: Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii), spotted-tail quoll (Dasyurus maculatus subsp. maculatus) and eastern quoll (Dasyurus viverrinus)
Location: Private property, Kanumbra, Victoria
Title of research: Double Indication for use in den detection by scent dogs
Aim of project: Federation University working with Environmental Canines Pty Ltd, using double indication by scent detection dogs for detection of the above species.
Justification: Traditionally, scent detection dogs used in conservation work are trained to indicate a target species using a ‘sit’ or ‘down’ position; or by barking or bailing. Where the target can be identified visually (e.g. a bird or bat carcass), this is done by the handler. Where the target is not visible (e.g. an orchid tuber, present under the ground), the handler is normally confident that the dog has identified the target species, because the dog has been trained on a single target within the working environment.
This pilot study will test whether a scent detection dog can be trained to indicate the presence of more than one target and subsequently respond to a query from the handler to identify the type of target. We have termed this ‘double indication’. Specifically, in this pilot study, we will test whether the detection dog can reliably and accurately:
1. indicate that he has found hair or scat of the species listed above; and
2. respond to a query from his handler, to indicate which species has been detected
Following the pilot study, the team intends to apply the double detection approach for multiple species den detection (of the above species). By allowing multiple non-visual targets to be searched and identified by a single dog, double indication has the potential to reduce costs associated with ecological and conservation surveys.
Maximum likely numbers of individuals involved:
• 4 carcasses of each species.
• Scat and hair from enclosure only, no collection from live animals.
• One scent detection dog.
Carcasses scat and hair are to be collected from programs, museums, sanctuaries, wildlife hospitals that hold their own current permits. No samples to be collected from live animals.
Activities undertaken and methods:
Scent detection dog will be trained on to the scent of the above animals and trained to double indicate. The initial pilot study will be tested on private land involving only sample scent and will not include live targets. This is pilot project is expected to extend to den detection in subsequent studies.
Fate of animals:
• No live target animals involved.
• Dog will remain with the owner/trainer for remainer of his life.
Likely impact on species involved (including any by-catch):
• No live target animals involved
• Scent dog will enjoy new training challenges.