The endangered Carnaby’s cockatoo is lucky to have a friend in Dr Denis Saunders who has spent almost 50 years fighting for its survival. While his efforts to prevent further decline are making a difference, the battle for long-term survival endures. The Rotary Club of Palm Beach members, lead by Rick Dawson have actively supported Dr Saunders with his work at Coomallo Creek.
Some interesting facts from the work conducted at Coomallo Creek:
- We have recorded 101 breeding attempts; 47 in natural hollows and 54 in CARTs.
- The area has 97 natural hollows and 60 CARTs; so CARTs make 60/157 = 38.2% of available hollows, but 53.1% of the breeding attempts.
- In 2012 there were 16 CARTs and 45 natural hollows taken up.
- In 2013 there were 21 CARTs and 46 natural hollows taken up.
- In 2014 (June installed 27 artificial hollows 1.2m x 400mm in Dia) there were 38 CARTs and 32 natural hollows taken up.
- All 27 new larger artificial hollows were used with; 26 by Carnaby’s and one Corella.
- Interestingly the first hollow used this year was artificial #1, even though she had 157 to choose from, the nestling has fledged successfully.
Palm Beach Sergeant and Senior Wildlife Officer Rick Dawson with Dr Denis A Saunders, AM