Rediscovery of the Capricorn subspecies of yellow chat Epthianura crocea macgregori at Torilla Plain, on the mainland coast of central Queensland

The critically endangered Capricorn (Dawson) subspecies of the Yellow Chat (Epthianura crocea macgregori) is reported for the first time in more than 80 years from the mainland coast of central Queensland. We describe the rediscovery, in the period July 2003 to May 2004, of a breeding population on the Torilla Plain, adjacent to Broad Sound, NNW of Rockhampton. A two-stage census of the population in three localities produced a total of 160 birds (including juveniles). Habitats occupied were saline swamp dominated by tall rush Schoenoplectus litoralis, and samphire Halosarcia spp. and freshwater channels lined with tall sedge Cyperus alopecuroides, and grass. The subspecies is now known from Curtis Island and several mainland localities. We identify some of the conservation needs of the Torilla Plain population.