In this study we report on a new technique for reconstructing long-tgrm vegetation changes in the Australian rangelands. Sheep faeces, which accumulate annually beneath shearing sheds, provide an untapped and potentially continuous record of vegetation change at a property scale. From stable carbon isotope analysis, inferences about the available vegetation can be made. Our analysis revealed vegetation changes slnce the construction of two sheds, a period of approximately 40 years. Results indicated a significant reduction in the availability of C, grasses on Currawinya (south-west Queensland). However, for the same period there was no significant change in proportion of C, and C, species contributing to the diet of sheep on Talyealye (north-west New South Wales). Given the abundance, age and distribution of shearing sheds in the Australian rangelands, the potential exists to reconstruct a detailed picture of vegetation change at a national scale.
Full-text publications from the Australian Rangelands Society (ARS) Biennial Conference Proceedings (1997-), Rangeland Journal (ARS/CSIRO; 1976-), plus videos and other resources about the rangelands of Australia.