A study led by Monash University Associate Professor Rohan Clarke has provided critical insights into the migration patterns of the Tasmanian Boobook (Ninox leucopsis). This research, which tracked the birds’ journey across Bass Strait, offers valuable data on the behaviour of the Tasmanian Boobook and will be an important reference for conservation and sustainable development.

With the support of a $10,000 grant from Biosis, researchers acquired satellite tags required for monitoring the Boobooks, with the funding being used to purchase four of the five tracking devices used in the study. The lightweight satellite tags, that record GPS positions of the birds, were attached to tail feathers using a method that allows them to fall off harmlessly after their battery depletes,

“Without the support provided by Biosis, we wouldn’t have been able to undertake the project when we did,” Professor Clarke noted.

The study confirmed that Tasmanian Boobooks migrate across Bass Strait, and, through satellite tracking, data from citizen science platforms like eBird and molecular screening, the team at Monash University demonstrated that these birds belong to the same subspecies that breeds in Tasmania. They also discovered that the migration involves a direct, non-stop flight across the strait—covering an impressive 250 kilometers in a single night without island hopping. Following this journey, at least two tagged birds established territories in Tasmania’s upland regions during the spring, suggesting that these Boobooks may be altitudinal migrants that move to lower altitudes to escape harsh winters.

This research provides crucial insights for assessing the risks of offshore and coastal wind farms on bird migration across Bass Strait, understanding the birds’ flight paths will allow developers to minimise potential impacts on migratory species.

“These findings are a key step in delivering effective conservation of biodiversity in the presence of ongoing development” Professor Clarke said. “The data will help guide decision-making for infrastructure projects in the region.”

The molecular analysis that was undertaken also revealed additional details about the taxonomic relationships of related species, including the Critically Endangered Norfolk Island Morepork. Together, these efforts contribute to a broader understanding of avian migration and the interconnected nature of bird populations across the region.

Biosis' funding not only facilitated satellite tracking but also enabled the research team to achieve timely results. “It’s fair to say that without this support, we wouldn’t have been able to undertake the project when we did,” Professor Clarke emphasised.

We are proud to support such impactful research. To read the full paper online visit https://doi.org/10.1080/01584197.2024.2432867.

Pictured below: Assoc. Prof. Rohan Clarke and Research Assistant Jessica Zhou presenting findings to Biosis employees.