The word on how to help rare birds
A NEW program aiming to understand threats to the endangered Gouldian finch is calling on bird lovers to take part in North Queensland surveys.
A three-year funding grant delivered by the State Government’s Queensland Citizen science program is encouraging anyone with interest in the conservation of the Gouldian finch to collect relevant information pertaining to the species.
North Queensland Natural History Group president Leanne Kruss said the group’s aim was to investigate, document and appreciate the flora and fauna of North Queensland.
“We help to share and increase knowledge of the natural attributes of the region,” she said.
“These QCS funds will allow many more citizen scientists to contribute towards a better understanding of the distribution, population, habitat needs, diet and threats of the endangered Gouldian finch.”
Project leader Dr Ray Pierce said a recently discovered finch population in the Einasleigh Uplands south west of Cairns offered a unique opportunity to better understand ecological requirements for the species.
“These will allow comparisons between local sites in North Queensland with other sites in North Western Australia, where the species is more common and not endangered,” he said. NQNHG is looking to involve people who are keen to participate in field trips.
“Training will be provided for surveying Gouldian finches, commencing in September this year,” Ms Kruss said.
To learn more about taking part in the survey be at the NQNHG annual general meeting to be held at the Malanda Hotel Ballroom on August 26 at 7.30pm.