Bird enthusiasts needed in search for endangered parrot
The Our Coorong | Our Coast project is calling on local bird enthusiasts to help in the search for the elusive and endangered Orange-bellied Parrot (OBP).
Endangered: Found along the coastline and lakes area of the Coorong and Limestone Coast, the Orange-bellied Parrot is critically endangered. Photo by Chris Tzaros.
Found along the coastline and lakes area of the Coorong and Limestone Coast, the Orange-bellied Parrot is critically endangered.
Orange-bellied Parrot Project Coordinator Bob Green said it is important to understand the range of this special bird.
“The main reason we try and spot the OBP is to help focus our conservation efforts,” Bob said.
“Just over 100 birds left their breeding grounds in south west Tasmania this year. Unfortunately for us, it is rare to set eyes on one once they reach the mainland.”
“If we know where they are living, we can prioritise revegetation and preservation work in those areas.”
The next official count will be held over the weekend of 25-26 July, focusing on the southern Coorong area. Participants are not required to have any prior experience and Bob will pair learner bird counters with experienced bird watchers.
“There are some subtle differences between the OBP and similar species, which can make correct identification tricky,” Bob said.
“It would be great to see members of the community come along and participate in the count.”
COVID-19 precautions will be in place during the weekend.
For more information, or to join in on the count, contact Bob Green on 0407649909 or shriketit@bigpond.com.
This project is supported by the Limestone Coast Landscape Board, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.
