Key Takeaways
- A resident in Coombabah, south-east Queensland, discovered a pair of bush stone-curlews nesting near a road and took action to protect them.
- Bush stone-curlews are ground-dwelling birds that rely on camouflage for protection and are currently in their breeding season.
- The birds are common in urban environments, but face threats such as road strikes, habitat loss, and predation by invasive species.
- Residents are being urged to keep an eye out for the birds and report nests to authorities, who will monitor the birds and put up fencing and signage to warn residents about their presence.
- Bush stone-curlews are listed as an endangered species in New South Wales and Victoria, and threatened in South Australia.
Introduction to the Discovery
An Australian resident has been praised for her quick thinking after making a very hard-to-spot discovery outside her home. The woman, from Coombabah in south-east Queensland, found a pair of bush stone-curlews nesting dangerously close to the road. She took it upon herself to keep a close watch on the birds, going as far as to stop cars to prevent the eggs or sitting curlews from accidentally being run over. Her actions demonstrate the importance of community involvement in protecting wildlife, particularly during breeding seasons.
Characteristics of Bush Stone-Curlews
Bush stone-curlews are ground-dwelling birds that rely on camouflage for protection. According to Wildcare Australia, they will hiss, spread their wings, or lie low when threatened. The birds are currently in the midst of their breeding season, which runs from the end of July to April, during which they can nest up to four times. During this period, it is common to see them make nests in car parks, schools, workplaces, hospital grounds, and even caravan parks. The birds tend to prefer wide open spaces where they can spot predators from a distance, making urban environments a suitable habitat for them.
Community Efforts to Protect the Birds
The Coombabah woman’s efforts to protect the bush stone-curlews were successful, thanks in part to the help of a wildlife carer from Wildcare Australia. The carer suggested setting up a protective barrier using cones, tape, and signage to prevent accidents. This collaborative approach highlights the importance of community involvement in protecting wildlife. Amy Nicholls, Sustainability and Environment Project Officer from Tweed Shire Council, has also urged residents to keep an eye out for the birds during the breeding season and report any nests to authorities.
Threats to Bush Stone-Curlews
Unfortunately, not all stories have a happy ending. In September, a precious bush stone-curlew egg laid in a car park in Cleveland, Brisbane’s southeast, was trampled on, despite efforts to protect the nest with wooden stakes and caution tape. This incident highlights the challenges faced by bush stone-curlews in urban environments. The eggs themselves are delicate, and when the chicks are young, they are especially vulnerable to threats such as vehicles and domestic pets. Councils are proactive in putting up fencing and signage to warn residents of the birds, but more needs to be done to protect them.
Conservation Status of Bush Stone-Curlews
Bush stone-curlews are listed as an endangered species in New South Wales and Victoria, and threatened in South Australia. The main threats to their survival include road strikes, habitat loss, and predation by invasive species like foxes and cats, as well as domestic dogs. The council has urged residents not only to keep an eye out for the birds but also to report nests as they pop up. By monitoring the birds and putting up fencing and signage, authorities can help reduce the risks faced by bush stone-curlews and work towards their conservation.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The story of the Coombabah woman’s efforts to protect the bush stone-curlews is a heartwarming one, but it also highlights the challenges faced by these birds in urban environments. As the breeding season continues, it is essential for residents to be aware of the presence of bush stone-curlews and take steps to protect them. By reporting nests and supporting conservation efforts, individuals can make a difference in the protection of these iconic birds. If you have a story tip or would like to report a nest, you can contact the newsroom or follow the conversation on social media.