Home / Environment / Critically endangered bird gets new King Island sanctuary
Critically endangered bird gets new King Island sanctuary
25 Oct
Summary
- 200 hectares acquired on King Island for threatened wildlife.
- Critically endangered King Island Scrubtit population < 100.
- AWC establishes first Tasmanian conservation project.
The Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC) has acquired 200 hectares on King Island, Tasmania, to establish the Boulder Wildlife Sanctuary. This initiative represents AWC's inaugural conservation project in Tasmania, focusing on protecting threatened species, most notably the critically endangered King Island Scrubtit, of which fewer than 100 individuals survive.
The sanctuary's location on the island's northeast coast, adjacent to Lavinia State Reserve, provides vital habitat for native vegetation and vulnerable wildlife. AWC plans to collaborate with the local community to manage threats including feral cats, invasive weeds, and fire, while restoring habitats.
King Island, recognized as a Key Biodiversity Area, has experienced significant native vegetation loss. The critically endangered King Island Scrubtit, an endemic bird species dependent on mature, dense wet forests, faces an existential threat due to habitat degradation and fragmentation. Conservation efforts are now prioritized under the Australian Government's Threatened Species Action Plan.
AWC's strategy includes ecological surveys, feral animal and weed control, and habitat restoration. The organization aims to expand its conservation impact across King Island, addressing broader threats and seeking to stabilize and recover the King Island Scrubtit population amidst ongoing environmental challenges.
