Endangered bird seen at Western Treatment Plant this World Migratory Bird Day
The rare and critically endangered, Orange-bellied Parrot from south-west Tasmania is setting up temporary residence at the Melbourne Water Western Treatment Plant (WTP) on Wadawurrung Country in Werribee, ahead of World Migratory Bird Day on Saturday 13th May.
There are fewer than 100 Orange-bellied Parrots remaining in the wild. They travel across the Bass Strait every year to roost and feed at the Western Treatment Plant, which is a haven for birds due to the water supply, a variety of landforms and diverse plants.
Sightings of the rare species come as enthusiasts celebrate World Migratory Bird Day. This year’s theme, Water: Sustaining Bird Life, highlights the importance of preserving aquatic ecosystems amid an increasing population and climate change.
“As an internationally significant wetland under the Ramsar Convention, we are one of the only wetlands in Australia which actively manages artificial ponds for migratory birds and other species,” Western Treatment Plant Conservation and Land Officer, Cody McCormack said.
“It is incredibly special to be visited by the Orange-bellied Parrot at this time of year. Unlike other places in Victoria they may visit, they will stay here for the entire winter, before returning to south-west Tasmania in summer to breed,” Mr McCormack said.
The Western Treatment Plant treats half of Melbourne’s sewage – wastewater from kitchens, laundries, bathrooms, and toilets – through a world-leading environmentally-friendly process.
“Across more than 10,000 hectares of land – about the size of Phillip Island - sewage flows through a series of lagoons where bacteria gradually break down organic material. As we have improved efficiency, lagoons that are no longer required for sewerage treatment are now purposefully managed to create the ideal habitat for birds and other wildlife.”
As our city’s population increases, Melbourne Water is transforming the sewerage system to best recover waste, turning it into water, nutrients, and energy ready for re-use.
“We consider it part of our unique role as caretakers of the water cycle to enrich the plant’s biodiversity, making sure we preserve and improve this gem of the west,” Mr McCormack said.
Small group tours and birdwatching permits are available at the Western Treatment Plant.
For more information on birdwatching, visit birdwatching at the Western Treatment Plant.
For more information about the day, visit World Migratory Bird Day.
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