A Major Bird Monitoring Project Takes Flight in Big Scrub

Content source: Big Scrub Rainforest Conservancy

 An exciting new project to systematically monitor bird species in the Big Scrub rainforest has officially begun. With the deployment of advanced recording devices and cutting-edge bird call analysis software across various sites in the Big Scrub, this project is set to provide valuable insights into bird populations and their movements.

Understanding Bird Populations in the Big Scrub

Funded by the Rekindle Foundation, the Big Scrub Rainforest Conservancy is leading this ambitious project to understand how bird species assemblages are influenced by the management and disturbance histories of rainforest habitats. Some bird species, such as the Albert’s Lyrebird and Paradise Riflebird, are currently believed to be extinct in more minor, isolated remnants of the rainforest. To thrive, these species require more significant areas of mature habitat, like those in Minyon Falls or Big Scrub Flora Reserve.

However, as the availability of mature habitats for rainforest-dwelling species increases and more linkages between remnants are established, the potential for these birds to recolonise various sites is growing. The project aims to reveal significant changes in bird populations over the nearly four decades since the last systematic study by the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service in 1987.

Innovative Monitoring Techniques

Leading wildlife ecologist David Milledge and ecologist Georgia Beyer spearhead the project. They monitor bird vocalisations at 12 sites of varying sizes, maturity levels, and disturbance and management histories. By replanted rainforest sites of varying ages, the project hopes to detect encouraging signs of bird species inhabiting areas of rainforest planted 25-30 years ago and more recently established rainforests planted 5-15 years ago.

Bioacoustic sound recording devices have been strategically deployed at these sites to capture and analyse bird calls. The study will collect data across seasons and over three years to monitor changes in habitat use over time, which is particularly crucial in a changing climate.

Observational surveys of birds will also be conducted periodically at each site to complement the acoustic data. This dual approach helps capture a broader range of bird species, including those that may not be detected by sound recording alone, such as the elusive Topknot Pigeon. Bird assemblages are expected to vary with seasons and the phenology of food trees, vines, and other plants.

Brookfarm's Role in the Study

We are excited to share that one of the sites included in this study is at Brookfarm! Over 30 years ago, we expanded a tiny remnant by planting a new rainforest, now a thriving habitat. By participating in this project, we contribute to crucial conservation efforts and witness firsthand the return of various bird species to our farm. Seeing the positive impact of reforestation and habitat restoration on biodiversity is inspiring.

A Pilot Study Sets the Stage

In a pilot study done in eight Big Scrub sites, a total of 71 bird species were recorded across all sites. Findings from this study helped to finetune the approach, and gave an encouraging start to the much longer main study period.

Looking to the Future

The project will initially run for three years to establish a baseline of bird species occurrence. This baseline will serve as a benchmark to gauge the effects of vegetation enhancement and succession at the sites and assess the impacts of climate change and related perturbations over the longer term.

This exciting new project aims to demonstrate the habitat value of re-established rainforests and inspire other landholders to engage in rainforest restoration. As the study progresses, the team will continue to share interesting findings about how the many beautiful and threatened bird species of the Big Scrub are coming back from the brink of extinction.

Stay tuned to our blog for more updates as this essential work unfolds, and learn more about how Brookfarm plays a role in preserving our natural heritage!