With southerly migration well under way for Orange-bellied Parrots returning to their breeding grounds in South-West Tasmania hopes are high for a good number of birds to return and for another successful breeding season.
SA Orange-bellied Parrot regional coordinator Bob Green said SA was hoping for the return of Silver – Red P, one of the two Orange-bellied Parrots seen near the Murray Mouth in May and June this year.
“First identified on Bird Island on May 29 then seen and photographed subsequently both on Bird Island by Hannah Fairbairn and nearby Mundoo Island Station by Sally Grundy, a staunch long-term supporter and volunteer,” he said.
“The Grundys have conducted habitat restoration on the island and the birds presence along with large numbers of Elegant Parrots and smaller numbers of Blue-winged and Rock Parrots shows the high suitability of their property for the parrots.
“We hope that this general area including the Grundys’ property will welcome OBPs again over the following winter seasons. It also highlights the important role that private landowners and habitat restoration can play.”
Mr Green said this year 22 OBPs have been recorded back at Melaleuca in Tasmania, including Gold E Yellow, which was the mother of the bird identified at the Murray Mouth.
“Of the 22 birds, 15 are female and seven are males, 10 captive bred birds have been released so far with another 10 due to be released shortly and another group scheduled for early November planned to balance any sex ratio difference in the returned birds to maximise breeding potential.
“With 192 birds counted at Melaleuca at the end of last breeding season and hopefully a good return rate this year it is hoped the population can once again increase its numbers.”
Mr Green said next year there would again be official coordinated surveys conducted on the mainland in May, July and September.
“Before the surveys identification workshops will once again be conducted, consider attending one of the workshops to bring your ID skills up to speed and learn more about this critically endangered species,” he said.
If you are interested in participating in the workshops, surveys or conservation of the species contact the Mr Green via email shriketit@bigpond.com or phone 0407 649 909.
The project is supported by The Limestone Coast Landscape Board, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program and contributes to the South Australian Government’s Project Coorong initiative.
