Application for Scientific Permit – Available for Public Comment
Public comment on the following application for a Scientific Research (Fauna) Permit is open until 19 August.
Aim of Project:
To undertake GPS tracking of Latham’s Snipe at a key highland wetland site in order to collect foundational ecological information on habitat use.
Species/Taxon:
Latham’s Snipe (Gallinago hardwickii)
Location:
Tasmanian Land Conservancy reserve Silver Plains, Interlaken.
Justification:
Latham's Snipe were listed as Vulnerable under state legislation in 2025, based on threats posed by land use change. This study will obtain critical information on patterns in habitat use at largest near-natural population of the species in Tasmania. This information is essential to protecting and managing wetland habitats for snipe in Tasmania, where knowledge about use of wetland landscapes is largely unknown.
Numbers of individual animals involved:
Maximum 100
Activities to be undertaken and methods:
A highly experienced team of researchers and practitioners will undertake capture-based studies using mist nets to deploy GPS devices on snipe. This team has been undertaking similar field research on this species for over 10 years and uses well-established methods that reduce handling times and stress in captured birds.
Estimation of effort:
It is estimated that up to a dozen nets will be deployed over 10 traps nights per spring season between 2026 and 2028.
Fate of Animals:
Birds will be released alive at the point of capture
Likely impact on species or population involved:
Birds will experience short-term distress during catching and handling. A highly experienced team will ensure handling times are reduced to a minimum and that the welfare of the birds are monitored at all times. No lasting impacts are expected.