Swaggy

Kelly from our Natural Environment team has been talking to 'Swaggy' about nest boxes for local parks, and the process that Council is currently undertaking.  Unfortunately this process does take time and so we wanted to provide everyone with an update.

Council is in the process of reviewing guidelines for the provision of nest boxes and the retention of tree hollow in the Brisbane area, and in doing so a range of issues are being taken into consideration:

• scientific research on the nest box design and tree hollow formation
• assessment of all native and invasive species using hollows
• assessment of public safety risks associated with the hollow-bearing tree and the provision of nest boxes
• animal ethics
• placement of nest boxes according to the species requirement (height, habitat, orientation, etc)
• management recommendations in regards to invasive species occupying hollows
• development of a monitoring and maintenance program

Council feels it is critical to retain tree hollows rather than just place nest box in all areas. The placement of nest boxes may just be a substitute option for the protection of wildlife. Nest boxes can be installed where retention of tree hollows has not been possible.

To conserve Brisbane’s biodiversity, a range of initiatives have been implemented to protect biodiversity, restore 40% of Brisbane to natural habitat, and reconnect ecological corridors. Council is committed to these goals through its Green Heart CitySmart program.

These programs include:

Wildlife Movement Solutions - are animal crossing structures around transport infrastructure that include exclusion fencing, culvert underpasses, land-bridge overpasses, poles and rope bridges. These structure help reconnecting ecological corridors to protect Brisbane’s wildlife and allow for animal movement essential to the health and viability of our wildlife populations.

Biodiversity Research Partnerships Program - was initiated in 2000 to increase knowledge of Brisbane's biodiversity. The program involves partnerships with other government agencies, Universities, research centres and community organisations

Habitat Brisbane groups and creek and catchment groups - are working with community groups to restore natural habitats in parks, remnant bushland and wetlands and along waterways. Habitat Brisbane groups also help to protect, monitor and increase native flora and fauna populations, especially rare and threatened species.

Street tree planting program - to keep Brisbane's suburbs green.

Free plants program - Brisbane City Council offers the Free Plants program to residents as well as schools and community groups.

Weed removal program which manages and controls the introduction and spread of weeds that can destroy our native vegetation.

Land for Wildlife program which helps owners of farms, bush blocks, school grounds, golf courses and other areas with valuable habitat protect the environment by providing habitats for wildlife on their property.

If you would like more info, please have a look at the Brisbane City Councils environment website at www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/environment

I hope this information has been helpful

Project Officer - Community Engagement Team

The Swaggy

Swaggy