The Nature Parks has been working closely with Odonata and the Australian National University, in the recovery of bush stone-curlews across south-eastern Australia. The overall objective of this collaboration is to bring bush stone-curlews back to Phillip Island (Millowl) and work towards strengthening the numbers in the wild.

This species once called Phillip Island home, before becoming extinct due to predation by foxes. The Nature Parks is excited about its role and the long-term commitment to reintroducing the bush stone-curlew into the wild. Assisted by PhD student, Paula Wasiak, the research includes health checks and behavioural assessments, followed by banding and GPS backpacks for post-release monitoring. An annual population census will identify founder and reinforcer birds for the establishment of a self-sustaining population.

Success will rely on support from the community and the Nature Parks and donors to the Penguin Foundation who have supported the program by funding two curlew aviaries and contribution to the work of the PhD student. The Curlew Custodian Volunteer team are playing an integral role in caring for and monitoring the captive birds at the Koala Conservation Reserve. You can find out more about bush stone-curlews here.