Following a client development application and a Council review of a previous Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR) as part of the Biodiversity Assessment Method (BAM), and an absence of existing survey guidelines, Kleinfelder was contracted to develop and conduct a scientifically robust and repeatable survey methodology for Petalura gigantea, the Giant Dragonfly or Southeastern Petaltail, which is currently listed as endangered under the New South Wales Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

Understanding the Species

As one of the largest dragonflies in the world, with a wingspan of up to 13 cm, the Giant Dragonfly remains poorly understood. It is however known to have a burrowing habit which excavates permanent burrows to 75 cm in organic-rich or peaty soils of their mire habitats. The larval stage is long-lived, up to 10 years, with adults living a single summer after emergence. The Giant Dragonfly is dependent upon groundwater ecosystems with a variably emergent water table.

Survey Methodology Development

Recent sightings in near coastal situations were noted, but with no knowledge documented for these occurrences. Adopting and understanding known best practice survey methodologies, Kleinfelder’s Principal Botanist harnessed principles from his own work ‘Petalura litorea Saving our species habitat surveys’ and prior detailed studies undertaken for P. gigantea by Dr Ian Baird.

Project Results

Kleinfelder’s site assessment and survey found no sightings of adult Petalura gigantea upon the site and noted a lack of habitat attributes therein.

Recent sightings noted close to the site, instigated an extended rapid survey method in nearby areas with potentially suitable habitat features. Here breeding habitat was detected in an area one kilometre north of the development site.

Project Details

Location:
Central Coast, NSW

Owner:
Confidential Client