Scientists warn we are facing a biodiversity crisis. While biodiversity loss can mean worldwide extinction for some species, at a local level it can mean reduction or loss of species in a certain habitat.
Part of the City of Armadale’s bushland reserve management includes monitoring fauna and flora, seed collection, revegetation, monitoring feral animals, and managing dieback.
Results from the 2021 springtime avian fauna survey for Armadale Settlers Common show greater abundance of a range of avian fauna, including increased numbers of the Red-tailed Black Cockatoo and Baudin’s Black Cockatoo (both threatened species).The City’s Environmental Officers believe the increased numbers of black cockatoos is linked to the habitat supplementation program and subsequent breeding in the reserve. Increases in the abundance of other bird species were also recorded, particularly in species known to be susceptible to feral animal predation. This increase could be a result of the ongoing feral animal control program at the reserve.
Other bird species who also appear to be increasing in numbers at Armadale Settlers Common, include the Australian Raven, Common Bronzewing, Forest Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo, Red-capped Parrot, Striated Pardalote, Western Thornbill, Western Yellow Robin, and Little Corrella.
Armadale Mayor Ruth Butterfield says the survey’s results are encouraging.
“Habitat loss is putting significant pressure on many local bird species so it’s encouraging to see the abundance of bird life at Armadale Settlers Common, and to know that our efforts are having a positive impact. The clearing of feed vegetation and large old trees required for nesting is putting the squeeze on our beautiful Black Cockatoos, but Settlers Common provides them with an important sanctuary.
“For those interested in bird watching, the reserve offers opportunities to observe the Brown Honeyeater, Western Gerygone, Forest Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo, Striated Pardalote, Western Spinebill, Galah, Weebill, and Western Whistler. Some great trails are located at Settlers Common East. Maps are available from the Visitor Centre and also online at www.perthhillsarmadale.com.au,” said Mayor Butterfield.
However, the news is not all good with the overall spatial pattern in species richness showing statistically significant lower diversity of birds in dieback affected areas. The City’s Environmental team is investigating ways to manage dieback such as revegetation, regular mapping, and phosphite treatment.
“Dieback poses a real risk to habitat with considerable local impacts and it’s something we’ll be tackling on an ongoing basis. The City funds regular and ongoing field surveys to give us a comprehensive overview of what’s happening in our bushland reserves. This spring, we’ll be further monitoring fauna at Armadale Settlers Common to focus on mammals and reptiles in the area. The results will further inform how we manage the area for conservation and recreation,” said Mayor Butterfield.
The Splendid Fairy-wren and White-browed Scrubwren are both common species in the region that were not recorded in the field surveys of the reserve. This may be due to specialist habitat preference or other threatening factors. To investigate their absence further, the community are invited to download the Birdata App (birdata.birdlife.org.au) and record sightings. Results of community observations will be considered alongside specialist survey results to help shape the conservation management of the reserve. Armadale Setters Common is a 383 hectare bushland reserve in Bedfordale managed by the City of Armadale for conservation and recreational purposes.
