In a treat for birdwatchers, a rare and critically endangered parrot has set up home at the Melbourne Water Western Treatment Plant (WTP) ahead of World Migratory Bird Day this Saturday (13 May).
WTP Conservation and Land Officer, Cody McCormack said the Orange-bellied Parrot from south-west Tasmania had taken up temporary residence at the Plant.
“There are fewer than 100 Orange-bellied Parrots remaining in the wild,” Mr McCormack said.
“It is incredibly special to be visited by the Orange-bellied Parrot at this time of year,” he said.
“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 birds travelled 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.
He said that as an internationally significant wetland under the Ramsar Convention, WTP was one of the only wetlands in Australia which actively managed artificial ponds for migratory birds and other species.
Sightings of the rare species come as enthusiasts prepare to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day, with this year’s theme, Water: Sustaining Bird Life, highlighting the importance of preserving aquatic ecosystems amid an increasing population and climate change.
“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,” the Conservation and Land Officer said.
“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.”
Mr McCormack said small group tours and birdwatching permits were available at the WTP.
