We have been actively monitoring the H5 Avian Influenza situation as it has spread globally, including now in Australia and South Australia. We are understandably concerned about bird flu and its impact on bird life. Our nature reserves enjoy high levels of bird diversity, particularly waterbirds and migratory birds at Murbpook and Watchalunga. Witchelina Nature Reserve is also experiencing significant numbers of water dependent and migratory birds in response to the high rainfall experienced earlier this year.

Goal 1 in Nature Foundation's Strategic Plan: Towards 2030 is "Increasing areas of habitat are conserved and enhanced for future generations", and we are tackling this from the macro to the micro scale.

Nature Foundation has been restoring the native grassland at Tiliqua since 2022, with a variety of Iron-grass (Lomandra multiflora ssp. dura, Lomandra densiflora, and Lomandra effusa), whose deep root systems help stabilise the soil. The plants also act as seed traps, which can support higher floral diversity.
A break in the wild early winter weather in mid-June provided the opportunity to add a further 300 Iron-grass and Kangaroo grass plants to the reserve, bringing the total planted since 2022 to 1,188.

Welcome to the winter edition of Nature Matters. We are excited to share our latest updates with you.

In this edition of Nature Matters, our Science and Knowledge team share interesting observations from the recent biodiversity monitoring surveys, we announce this year's Research Grant and Artist Residency Program recipients, the 2026 Volunteer season has kicked off with weed management at Watchalunga Nature Reserve, and our Kids on Country™ team were centre stage at the inaugural national gathering for junior ranges held in Adelaide.

Twice-annual bird surveys at Witchelina Nature Reserve since 2010, conducted by Birds SA volunteers, have provided valuable insights that support our conservation efforts (and your support) make a difference for local and migratory species.

Dr Philippa Horton, a dedicated Nature Foundation member, Birds SA committee member, and editor of SA Ornithologist, has participated in these bird surveys over the years. Her passion for birds was sparked in the 1970s during a family holiday and led to a PhD in zoology and a career in ornithology research.

Philippa’s presentation shared the processes used for the bird surveys, including data compilation and use, the quantity and types of species identified, including a brief look at some threatened and Rare species.

The inaugural Junior Rangers National Gathering took place in mid-May at Yitpi Yartapuultiku in Port Adelaide, South Australia, and Nature Foundation was honoured to support planning and preparation for the gathering and to participate in the program of presentations.