Glossy Black Cockatoos in South Australia are endangered due to habitat loss and nest predationCommunity support is once again being sought by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to ensure future survival of Kangaroo Island’s Glossy Black Cockatoo.
The 2011 nesting season is now in full swing with over 30 active nests recorded to date. Volunteers will be required for Drooping Sheoak tree plantings in June/July and the annual census in October.
According to DENR Glossy Black Cockatoo project officer, Mike Barth, Kangaroo Island is the only place in SA that the Glossy Black Cockatoo now lives.
“The Glossy Black Cockatoo in South Australia is endangered due to habitat loss and nest predation, so we need to act now to ensure these precious birds are around for future generations,” Mr Barth said.
“Volunteers of the Glossy Black Cockatoo Recovery Program, which began in 1995, have contributed greatly to the success of the recovery effort, with Island residents and visitors assisting with activities such as nest searching and monitoring, habitat restoration and the annual census.
“Their efforts have contributed to a steady increase in the population from less than 200 birds in the mid 1990s to an estimated 320 birds today.”
Mr Barth said, in 2010, over 50 volunteers dedicated more than 250 hours of their time assisting with activities such as nest watching and habitat restoration.
“Evenings were spent monitoring active nests and recording behaviours to provide crucial information that determines whether nesting attempts are successful,” Mr Barth said.
“A total of 8000 Drooping Sheoak trees were also planted on Kangaroo Island in 2010 to provide more food for Glossies.”
The Glossy Black Cockatoo Recovery Program is managed by DENR with state funding administered through the Kangaroo Island Natural Resources Management Board.
Anyone interested in volunteering or to report sightings, contact DENR Glossy Black Cockatoo project officer Mike Barth on 8553 4444 or email: michael.barth@sa.gov.au.