Published on Friday, 9 August 2024 at 10:39:39 AM
The City of Nedlands is lucky to be one of the few Perth suburban regions still able to enjoy the presence of Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos.
Not that long ago, as some of our residents would remember, flocks of Carnaby’s would fill our skies, but it’s becoming increasingly harder to spot these majestic birds.
Habitat loss through land-clearing and also climate change, such as the recent extreme drought that wiped out thousands of trees throughout Perth and the southwest, create severe challenges that reduce Carnaby’s habitat. The iconic Cockatoos are considered officially ‘Endangered’ under the Federal Government’s Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC).
But thanks to a generous donation of 30 Macadamia trees, by an anonymous benefactor and local resident, the City is contributing to the survival of Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos.
The trees have been planted at Baines and Harris Park in Swanbourne.
Carnaby’s are the only birds which can crack open Macadamias’ woody fruit with their strong beaks, and so the Carnaby’s will have access to high protein food without competition from other bird species..
Deputy Mayor Kerry Smyth says “I personally have a 20 year old macadamia tree in my yard and have been pleased to see the Carnaby’s visit each year but have noticed their numbers declining’.
Deputy Mayor Smyth continued “This generous donation will help provide increased food options for the Carnaby’s so we can continue to enjoy their visits, support their survival in our region, and enhance the natural beauty and sustainability of Baines and Harris Park for all our residents,”.
The Macadamia tree planting project complements an active effort by the City of Nedlands and our local bushcare groups to promote local biodiversity, and to support and protect our local wildlife.
This includes a recent $17,000 Lotterywest grant for four bird watering stations across natural areas in the City at Birdwood Parade, Point Resolution, Allen Park and Shenton Bushlands, to help Carnaby’s Cockatoos, and other local birdlife, access water safely away from busy roads.
The City of Nedlands encourages everyone in our community to learn more about the importance of protecting our local endangered species and to get involved in our many local conservation efforts.
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