In 2019 our district supported the Aussie Backyard Bird Count, an initiative of BirdLife Australia that aims to make connections between locals and their environment whilst benefiting from data about our birdlife.
Last year there were 277 observers who participated in our district during the official period of 21 to 27 October. During this time 14,626 individual birds were observed, making up 155 bird species, including four nationally threatened, and 16 state threatened types.
Small birds like the Chestnut-rumped Heathwren, Diamond Firetails, Eastern Spinebills, and Black-chinned Honeyeaters were once more common in the Mount Lofty Ranges, but their numbers are in decline due to loss of habitat and we are seeing them be replaced by more aggressive bird species like the Australian Magpie, New Holland Honeyeater, and Red Wattlebird.
By managing garden vegetation to promote a diversity of native birds, through the availablility of important food, shelter, and nesting locations, community members can provide valuable secondary habitat for the conservation of native bird populations.
Council has developed a Native Habitat Landscape and Gardening Guide (also available in hard copy at the Coventry Library, Stirling) that can assist residents in choosing local native plant varieties for their properties.
To learn about Aussie birds, participate in surveying, and create habitat and change you can look out for this year’s Aussie Backyard Bird Count taking place from Monday 19 to Sunday 25 October 2020.
Pictured: Chestnut-rumped Heathwren, photo taken by Alison Derry.
