Locals can learn how to build nest boxes for birds at an upcoming workshop.
Gunnedah Urban Landcare Group said nest boxes for native birds and animals were important because they provided much-needed habitat for local birds and animals and replaced old trees with hollows, their preferred nesting places.
“With the expansion of urban areas and other development, many old trees are removed, reducing habitat for our native birds and animals.You can attract many different species to your own backyard by providing them somewhere to live,” a spokesperson for GULG said.
“In the Gunnedah area, you will not only see many species of birds that nest in nest boxes such as musk lorikeets, owls and tree creepers but also small marsupials including brush-tailed possums, sugar gliders and the vulnerable squirrel glider. Micro-bats are also common occupants as can frogs and skinks.”
Gunnedah Urban Landcare Group (GULG) will host the free “hands-on” workshop on September 27.
“Many people who put up a nest box will see it occupied by native animals, have young and then return again the following year to do the same,” GULG chair Mark Kesby said.
“It is an amazing thing to be able to watch in your own backyard.”
The workshop will be held from 9am-1pm at the Gunnedah Airport Terminal and will be run by Hollow Log Homes – a nest box building business based in Queensland.
All participants will learn about the importance of habitat for native animals and using nest boxes to facilitate this. There will also be the opportunity to construct a nest box to take home and install.
This event includes morning tea and a light lunch. Numbers are limited, so bookings need to be made by September 21. Phone Mark Kesby on 0428 429 244 or email gulg2380@gmail.com
The project is supported by North West Local Land Services through funding from Catchment Action NSW in partnership with GULG.
