56 EMROP: Waihi North Project WAI-985-000-PLN-LC-0001_Rev0 clean understand the existing lizard community structure at a relocation site before introducing new individuals into the environment (this is particularly important where high numbers of lizards [i.e. > 20] are expected to be released). The following set of criteria have been applied to assist in determining a suitable relocation site. 1. Habitat size and complexity – ensure the relocation habitat is representative (equal quality) or of better quality, than the original capture site(s). 2. Vicinity to original population – limit the distance that lizards are relocated from their original capture site(s). Distances < 500 m will meet this criterion. 3. Security of estate – ensure legal protection of habitats at the relocation site (all offset locations are required to be protected (covenant, stock fence) in perpetuity). 4. Resident species composition and density – confirm the presence of indigenous lizards and limit the potential adverse effects of intra- and inter-species competition at the relocation site. 5.3.6.2 Selected relocation site This Plan proposes to provide extend (1.7 ha lizard habitat planting) habitat availability and enhance (2.34 ha pine canopy removal, provision of additional refuges) identified habitats (Figure 12 andFigure 13) that would be contiguous with SNA 166, following offset planting (16.5 ha) that will be undertaken in accordance with this Plan (refer Figure 5). The identified habitats currently support At Risk moko skinks, a species now rare on the New Zealand mainland, and which is typically sympatric (naturally occurs in the same areas) with copper skinks. Table 20 reviews the suitability of this location against release site assessment criteria.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjE2NDg3