On The Land
21 November, 2024
Projects to protect species
THE Spectacled Flying-Fox and the beautiful Golden-Shouldered Parrot are set to benefit from two projects to be spearheaded by Cape York Natural Resource Management after receiving Australian Government funding.
The projects – part of the government’s ongoing commitment to protect Australia’s rich biodiversity – covered more than
115 initiatives targeted at species conservation and habitat
restoration nationwide.
The Spectacled Flying-Fox project will partner with land managers, Traditional Owners, and scientists to increase scientific knowledge and cultural awareness of the species in Cape York.
It will improve roosting sites and foraging habitat through habitat assessments, supporting recovery efforts for the vulnerable Spectacled Flying-fox and contributing to stabilising or improving its population across its range.
The Golden-Shouldered Parrot project will increase scientific knowledge and local and cultural awareness of the bird in Cape York and increase the condition of its nesting and foraging habitat through the implementation of appropriate fire regimes, control of invasive animals including pigs, horses and unmanaged cattle, and control of invasive weeds including gamba grass.
“I’m very pleased these projects will benefit some of the key endangered species in Far North northern Queensland like the Spectacled Flying-Fox and the beautiful Golden-Shouldered
Parrot,” Senator for Queensland Nita Green said.
“Restoring nesting and foraging habitat and controlling invasive species like pigs and gamba grass are how we put our precious threatened species on a path to recovery.”
Cape York NRM CEO Pip Schroor said the organisation was honoured to play its part.
“Cape York NRM is honoured to be a part of these transformative projects, which will not only safeguard some of our most vulnerable species but also enhance the ecosystems that are the lifeblood of our region,” she said.
“By collaborating with Traditional Owners, land managers, and scientists, we are combining the strength of traditional knowledge with modern conservation techniques to protect the Spectacled Flying Fox, the Golden-Shouldered Parrot, and vital rainforest habitats.
“This funding allows us to continue our commitment to sustainable land management and biodiversity protection, ensuring a healthy future for Cape York’s unique environment.”