Feral Water-Buffalo (Bubalus-Bubalis) in the Major Floodplains of the Top End, Northern-Territory, Australia - Population-Growth and the Brucellosis and Tuberculosis Eradication Campaign

摘要

Rates of growth of populations of feral water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) in the floodplains of then'Top End' of the Northern Territory are dependent on how much rain falls during the dry season.nLow rainfall results in massive mortality. Approximately 73% of years are likely to result in populationngrowth rates greater than 0, with 1 year in 8 having growth rates less than -0.50. Analyses ofnpredicted population changes and recorded offtakes in relation to aerial survey estimates of buffalonpopulations suggest that the Brucellosis and Tuberculosis Eradication Campaign has had a significantnimpact on the feral population. Inaccuracy in aerial censuses of populations subjected to controlnmeasures over long periods of time, and migration to 'controlled' areas, may impede successful controlnof buffalo populations.