Become a Wren-Watcher

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Wed 14 Sep 2022 - Wed 30 Nov 2022

Did you know the Superb Fairy-wren was voted bird of the year in Australia in 2021? These small birds have round bodies and long upright tails with greyish brown plumage outside of the breeding season, and breeding males adorn bright blue and black plumage.

To improve the habitat of the Superb Fairy-wren, the City of Melbourne welcomes you to take part in a citizen science project this Spring. This conservation project is being delivered in partnership with BirdLife Australia, RMIT University and the University of Melbourne.

Dr Holly Kirk of RMIT University Urban Ecologist, Centre for Urban Research shared that this project is a great step towards making our cities more hospitable for lots of other species and brings nature back for everyone to enjoy.

University of Melbourne Urban Ecologist, School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences Dr Kylie Soanes feels that this is a really exciting project because it shows the potential to bring together councils, communities and researchers to make a positive change for nature in our urban environments.



Acting Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece is calling on Melburnians to help us learn more about this stunning species. To participate, simply sign up for a 15-minute 'wren-watch' at one of 50 survey areas in Royal Park. The information collected will enhance the Council's understanding of the birds' lifestyle in the Parkville area and support strategic vegetation planning that will improve the survival of local birdlife and the quality of habitat around the city. Data on sightings of the colourful bird are gathered via an app.

BirdLife Australia Research Ecologist Dr Kerryn Herman shared that BirdLife Australia will also colour-band juvenile Superb Fairy-wrens in late Spring to Summer for further monitoring as this allows the organisation to identify and monitor individual birds over time, helping them learn more about how Superb Fairy-wrens have adapted to urban spaces.

This free activity is excellent for budding birdwatchers and bird enthusiasts of all ages and certainly one of the top things to do in Melbourne this Spring. Click here to find out more and get involved.

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!date 14/09/2022 -- 30/11/2022
%wnmelbourne