We’re collaborating with South Australia to enhance habitats and protect wildlife threatened by H5 bird flu. An additional $1.5 million is dedicated to initiatives like controlling invasive species and restoring habitats. This includes tackling feral cats, foxes, and pigs, as well as revitalizing key areas:
- Ramsar wetlands
- Offshore islands
- Crucial sites for seabirds, shorebirds, and marine mammals
These efforts will help iconic species like Australian sea lions, fairy terns, and pelicans thrive. Healthy habitats and robust populations are essential for these native species to better cope with H5 bird flu. Moreover, these projects promise long-term conservation gains.
Specific projects include:
- Restoring habitats and controlling feral birds on the offshore islands of the Fleurieu Peninsula
- Predator management and habitat restoration on the Limestone Coast
- Controlling foxes and feral cats to protect vulnerable bird species along the metropolitan coastline
- Managing invasive pigs at the Coongie Lakes Ramsar site
This initiative is part of a broader national strategy to bolster efforts against H5 bird flu for at-risk species. It falls under the Australian Government’s $100 million investment in H5 bird flu preparedness, which allocates $35.9 million for environmental actions. Specific efforts in South Australia include:
- $1.2 million to enhance the resilience of Australian sea lions
- $300,000 for conservation planning for species and sites
- $130,000 to safeguard captive populations of endangered species
As climate change continues to alter natural habitats, the importance of these programs grows. A report from the World Wildlife Fund highlights that nearly 1 million species are at risk of extinction due to human activities. Protecting habitats is more crucial than ever. With strong community engagement and government support, we can champion these initiatives for our native wildlife.
