BIRDS OF THE MOOLOOLAH VALLEY & SURROUNDS

This morning will see two very passionate bird enthusiasts join forces to bring you a fun and educational session focused on birds of the Mooloolah Valley area.

Starting off at 8:30am, Phil Bender will give a presentation on the species of birds that visit the area, their habits and features. He will share his observations and knowledge over about 1.5hours.

We will break for morning tea from about 10am. Nursery Manager Suzanne will be on hand to talk suitable bird attracting plants with you, and there will also be wildlife books and plant books available for purchase.

Stick around as our second special guest, young Spencer Hitchen shares all things Glossy Black Cockatoo with us. As an avid conservationist, he will share with you some of the issues this species faces and how he is working towards saving this iconic bird in his area.

Both speakers have a love of bird photography - so you'll likely pick up some great photo taking tips along the way!

WHY GLOSSIES?

Calyptorhynchus lathami lathami (South-eastern Glossy Black Cockatoo) are a vulnerable species in Australia. The Glossy Black Cockatoo face many threats, one of which is habitat loss. They are extremely selective when it comes to food - only eating a few species of She-Oaks (Allocasuarina & Casuarina). More needs to be learnt about this species to aid organisations and authorities in protecting the populations that remain. That's where you can help. The more observations the better!

We're on the hunt for Glossy Black Cockatoos!

The last part of the morning will see MRL's resident bird spotter Rod Kerr lead a bird walk out the back, where you can learn to record bird observations through the BirdLife App. Rod has a keen eye for finding birds! Bring your binnoculars, hat, sun safe clothing, and sturdy shoes. Oh, and don't forget your water bottle! We'll also keep an eye out for any evidence of the Glossy Black Cockatoo - they are known to call the Mooloolah Valley home, so fingers crossed!!

This is a FREE event! The Mooloolah River Landcare "Action for Glossies in the Mooloolah Valley" project has received financial support from BirdLife Australia.
#BirdLifeAustralia #BirdLifeOz @BirdLifeOz @BirdLife Australia

GET TO KNOW PHIL:

Phil describes himself as "A carpenter by profession, a birder by inclination!" "A firm believer in the healing power of Nature which is much needed in the modern world."

Phil was a former Park Ranger at Brisbane Forest Park. He worked in several zoos specialising in Australian native birds and animals. He is passionate about protecting the natural world and enjoys the challenges of photographing wildlife, especially birds.

GET TO KNOW SPENCER:

Spencer Hitchen is a young conservationist and photographer who resides on the Sunshine Coast. Details about him and his work can be found via the Save Sunrise Glossies website > https://www.savesunriseglossie...

His aim is to teach others about the importance of the environment, striving to ignite a passion in others to protect this planet we share.

This is sure to be a great morning! Look forward to seeing you there. If you have any queries you can email admin@mrwl.org.au