An extensive tree-planting program at Werribee Open Range Zoo over the past decade has led to a dramatic increase in the native bird population.

More than 160 bird species have been recorded on the zoo’s 225 hectare property, which is almost double the number recorded ten years ago when the surveys began.

Zoo horticulturalist, Maarten Hulzebosch, said the ongoing revegetation and restoration of the area had significantly boosted the biodiversity of fauna along the banks of the Werribee River.

“For example, we’re now seeing many different species of birds of prey, including the Whistling Kite. These kites have a communal roost and we have sighted 96 of them at one point in time. It’s believed to be the largest roost within the Melbourne area,” Mr Hulzebosch said.

“As a zoo visitor, you can now look up and see them soaring gracefully across our skies most of the time. You also can hear the growing number of birds singing as you stroll along the river boardwalk. It’s a very rewarding experience.

“Our revegetation program has restored nature and led to a significant resurgence of many kinds of native animals including owls, possums and frogs.”

Mr Hulzebosch said the wonderful results were a timely reminder on World Environment Day (June 5) that we can all make a difference by taking collective action.

“We could not have achieved this without assistance from volunteers. They’ve helped us to plant more than 100,000 trees, shrubs and grasses over the past decade,” he said.

“This project is ongoing and in September we will plant an additional 12,500 trees.”

Werribee Open Range Zoo Director, Jenny Gray, said the program was one of many conservation and research programs across Zoos Victoria that were making real improvements to the environment locally, nationally and internationally.
 
“We’re striving to lead the way in sustainability and conservation and trying to make people more aware of the importance of doing this,” Ms Gray said.

Ms Gray said Werribee Open Range Zoo’s environmental highlights included:

• 50 percent reduction in water usage in 5 years (to 110 mega litres)
• Recycling 2006-07 (cardboard 57.5 m³; organic waste 470 m³; co-mingled 196 m³)
• Commencement of the Eastern Barred Bandicoot breeding program
• Wetland filter system in the Kubu River hippo exhibit: contains 55,000 plants that provide habitat to the endangered Growling Grass Frog and many water birds
• Water Smart Garden featuring water wise landscapes
• Planting of the endangered Sunshine Diuris Orchid and the Blue Box Eucalyptus.

“At Zoos Victoria we want people to understand how we can all make a difference if we act now to save our animals and plants from extinction,” Ms Gray said.

Find out more about Zoos Victoria Conservation projects.