Male–male Conflict and Breeding of the Australian Bustard Ardeotis australis in Rehabilitated Mine Land in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory

Abstract

Observations were made of Australian Bustards Ardeotis australis over 2 years (1998– 2000) at the Gove bauxite mine-site in north-eastern Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. The species was observed in ten out of the 12 survey months, and four males held individual mating territories in recently cleared or young rehabilitated areas, where they displayed. An aerial combat involving two males is described for the first time, and anecdotal evidence of successful breeding is presented. Clearing for mining, and subsequent rehabilitation, have created novel habitats, which has evidently allowed an expansion of the breeding range of this species.