The City of Melbourne is recruiting budding birdwatchers to take part in a citizen science project this Spring, which aims to improve the habitat of the Superb Fairy-wren.
Bird enthusiasts of all ages can sign up for a 15-minute ‘wren-watch’ at one of 50 survey areas in Royal Park – gathering data on sightings of the colourful bird via an app.
Information collected will enhance Council’s understanding of where the little birds prefer to live and forage in the Parkville area and inform strategic vegetation planning to improve the survival of local birdlife and the quality of habitat around the city.
The Superb Fairy-wren was voted Australian bird of the year in 2021. They are easily identified by their small, round body and long upright tail. Adult breeding males have bright blue and black plumage, while non-breeding adult males and females have greyish brown plumage.
Baseline surveys were completed over the last 12 months as part of the first phase of the study, which saw more than 100 small birds safely fitted with coloured leg bands in Royal Park – including 55 Superb Fairy-wrens. BirdLife Australia will continue to colour-band juvenile Superb Fairy-wrens in late Spring to Summer for further monitoring.
Habitat restoration works will also continue through Spring and over the coming years, with new plantings in and around Royal Park.
The citizen science project is being delivered by the City of Melbourne in partnership with BirdLife Australia, RMIT University and the University of Melbourne.
For more information or to get involved, visit the City of Melbourne website. Bird lovers can also connect with others and share their observations on the Superb City Wrens Facebook page.
