The Masked Owl Tyto novaehollandiae in Victoria

Abstract

Victorian records (150 records from 120 sites) of the Masked Owl Tyto novaehollandiae were examined for regional patterns of distribution, and to determine habitat requirements. As well, a subfossil cave deposit of prey remains from southern Victoria was analysed. More than a third of the sites were in the coastal plains of East Gippsland (east of Sale). In this area, nearly all sites were in forests adjacent to heathlands or roads. In other areas, most sites were in farmland either adjacent to forests or with large trees, especially River Red Gums. We suggest that these patterns reflect the species' key habitat requirements: large hollows for nesting adjacent to areas of adequate prey availability and accessibility. The results of the analysis of the subfossil deposit were concurrent with this hypothesis: its diet before European settlement consisted mainly of terrestrial small mammals. We estimate that there are between 300 and 400 breeding pairs in Victoria. Because of its rarity and dependence on areas subject to human activities (agriculture and production forestry) which are likely to have adverse impacts on its key habitat requirements, there is a pressing need for a management strategy and guidelines to ensure its conservation in Victoria.