Bird Haven Festival

Lineup

• More details about Prof. David Watson, Charles Sturt University

  Prof. David Watson, Charles Sturt University

  The power of machine-based monitoring to survey birds at scale. Bird occurrence data represents a foundational element of both ecological research and on-ground conservation, but both reliability and extent are constrained by sampling effort.  Sampling effort is determined by various factors, but invariably reflects cost—larger budgets afford greater investment in higher resolution data.  Machine-based monitoring breaks this rule, enabling reliable species detection at unprecedented scales within existing budgets.  Although only directly applicable to vocal taxa, acoustic monitoring has rapidly become a trusted platform for collecting species occurrence data, long duration recordings representing high resolution datasets that can be readily searched, compared and archived.  Combining regional call classifiers with autonomous sensors, we can now continuously monitor entire ecosystems, readily answering myriad questions previously well beyond reach.  Drawing on case studies from the Australian Acoustic Observatory, the Bush Bird Classifier and other collaborations, I explore what is now possible with acoustic monitoring, identify those classes of questions best suited to the approach, and areas of active inquiry for future applications.

• More details about Dr Flossy Sperring, Western Sydney University

  Dr Flossy Sperring, Western Sydney University

  Ecology and Conservation of Norfolk Island and Christmas Island’s Endemic Raptors Islands host a disproportionate amount of the world’s biodiversity and have experienced disproportionate loss. Among raptors, island endemics are particularly vulnerable to endangerment and extinction, yet many remain understudied. Management of such populations, with an objective to implement the most effective strategies, is a conservation priority. On Norfolk and Christmas Island, limited ecological knowledge about the endemic raptors is impeding conservation efforts. We have been investigating the ecology and conservation of the Critically Endangered Norfolk Island morepork, the Vulnerable Christmas Island hawk-owl, and the Endangered Christmas Island goshawk. All populations are represented by a single, insular island population that is potentially vulnerable to threats such as habitat loss, the introduction of invasive species, and inbreeding depression. We used GPS tracking, eDNA metabarcoding, acoustic recording, citizen scientists, and molecular analysis to investigate habitat and dietary requirements, biogeography, genetic diversity, and population monitoring strategies. Throughout this research, we have also engaged with the local communities to understand the relationship between people and raptors, as well as local perspectives on management options. Results from the Norfolk Island morepork investigation have directly influenced rodent control and population monitoring strategies by Norfolk Island National Park. Investigations for the raptors on Christmas Island are ongoing, however preliminary results already highlight the importance of effective community engagement. Together, these projects demonstrate the value of coordinated research between management authorities and academic researchers, as well as appropriate community engagement, for threatened species conservation.

• More details about Penny Beaver, Visiting Associate Research Fellow, Deakin University

  Penny Beaver, Visiting Associate Research Fellow, Deakin University

  Seabird Ecology

• More details about Office of the Threatened Species Commissioner.

  Office of the Threatened Species Commissioner.

  Australia's preparedness and response to H5N1 Bird Flu