In March 2023 members of the Governance and Risk - Environmental team assisted with the installation of 15 artificial nesting hollows within the rail corridor near Moora.
Inspections of the hollows in October and December 2023 excitingly found that the hollows have been successfully utilised with 12 of the 15 being actively used by Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos.
Arc’s G&R Lead Environment and Heritage, Nicolene Gault, said she was delighted with the results.
“We had 12 chicks all together with an additional three eggs being incubated. They ranged in age from three to 80 days old, with the eldest likely to have fledged within days of the December inspection.
“We are looking forward to working further with ABCS to explore options for the restoration of natural hollows we found also in use within the corridor.
“This will ensure their continued suitability as nesting hollows and to contribute to the future possible offsetting potential for this species,” said Ms Gault.
Rick Dawson from Australian Black Cockatoo Specialists (ABCS) said that with evidence of Carnaby’s having prospected each of the sites, it is likely that all 15 artificial nesting hollows will be used each year going forward.
“This project [is] an example to all on how you can make a real difference to a critically endangered species. To currently have up to 13 nestlings likely to fledge in 15 artificial hollows and serious prospecting in two others is outstanding, and something to be proud of,” said Mr Dawson.
The artificial nesting hollows were installed in suitable trees within a section of Arc’s corridor to offset clearing done by Doral Mineral Sands for their Yalyalup project operations in the South West. The rail corridor was identified by ABCS as an ideal location to install the nesting hollows, that would be of greatest benefit to Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos.
Widespread clearing in the Wheatbelt has meant that road and rail corridors have played an important role in supporting Carnaby’s breeding for a long period of time, however in recent years declining success has been attributed to the aging of existing hollows and the lack of new, suitable hollows forming.
Arc’s Head of Governance and Risk Callum Wylie said Arc were proud to have been in a position to collaborate on this project with Doral and ABCS.
“It is a fantastic result to have been able to provide new habitat for endangered Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos,” said Mr Wylie.
The hollows will be monitored again next breeding season commencing in March 2024, and we look forward to providing future updates and further projects with the Black Cockatoos.
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