This week a team conducted the 6-monthly bird survey at Witchelina Nature Reserve.  Given the significant rainfall both on Witchelina and across the north we thought we might find some interesting birds and this proved correct! In total nearly 90 bird species were recorded during the survey on the property; many more than for previous surveys conducted during drier times.

Isabelle Onley has recently published her PhD research on the vulnerable Greater stick-nest rat (Leporillus conditor). Her original project was titled ‘Conservation genomics and adaptation of translocated Greater Stick Nest Rats under climate change’.

Hugo Hopton, CEO of Nature Foundation, has retired as of April 22, 2022, after over six years of service. During his tenure, Hugo was known for his work with communities and industries in various fields, including land conservation and water management, and for building relationships with stakeholders. The Nature Foundation community extends its best wishes to Hugo in his retirement.

Nature Foundation recently welcomed NAB CEO Ross McEwan and Regional Customer Executive SA/NT Joe Paparella at Prospect and Para Woodlands Nature Reserve to discuss biodiversity strategies. An NAB Foundation grant will allow the use of a remotely piloted aircraft equipped with thermal cameras to detect native and pest animals at Witchelina and Hiltaba Nature Reserves. This significant advancement enables larger scale surveys, providing precise data to improve management strategies and overall knowledge of animal distribution.

Last week marked a significant milestone for Nature Foundation as they initiated the recovery phase for the northern wetland at Murbpook Nature Reserve on Ngaiawang country, which has been dry for five years. By utilizing Commonwealth environmental water, they aim to restore the wetland's ecosystem, thereby improving the habitat for threatened species such as the Regent Parrot and Southern Bell Frog. Representatives from the First Peoples of the River Murray Mallee Native Title Claimant Group 2, Jenny Grace-Giles and Steve Clarke, were present to observe the commencement of this crucial recovery phase alongside Nature Foundation's Natalie Stalenberg and Lucy Clive.