VOLUNTEERS conducting bi-annual Swift Parrot surveys were aflutter last week, after discovering a 1,000 strong flock in Bodalla State Forest near Moruya north of Narooma.
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The Swift Parrot is listed as endangered, both nationally and in NSW, and at last count, the population was estimated at fewer than 2,000 birds.
NSW Office of Environment and Heritage Biodiversity Conservation Manager Mike Saxon said local volunteer Julie Morgan of the Eurobodalla Natural History Society found this flock.
“We don’t know how long they will stay, but this is half the world’s population of Swift Parrots and the largest flock seen in living memory,” Mr Saxon said.
“Swifts are a beautiful bird and this season’s prolific spotted gum flowering event appears to have attracted them to the South Coast.”
Volunteers across NSW, Victoria and Queensland hold surveys each May and August to count the birds. Swift Parrots spend the cooler months on mainland Australia before returning to Tasmania to breed during summer.
Mainland Swift Parrot surveys are coordinated by Chris Tzaros of Birdlife Australia. Mr Tzaros also coordinates the Swift Parrot National Recovery Program.
“This is the second time in the last four years that the bulk of the Swift Parrot population has occurred on the NSW South Coast, highlighting the importance of this region.
“I have utmost appreciation for the hundreds of volunteers who help search for Swift Parrots,” Mr Tzaros said.
People interested in participating in Swift Parrot surveys should ring Birdlife Australia on 1800 665 766. If you see a Swift Parrot please contact your local NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service office or Birdlife Australia.
Identifying a Swift Parrot:
• Bright green with red around their bill, throat and forehead
• The red on its throat is edged with yellow
• About 25 centimetres long
• Long (12cm) thin tail, which is dark red
• Flute-like chirruping or metallic "kik-kik-kik" call
