Shoalhaven twitchers will have the opportunity to see more of the region's extensive bird species, thanks to a new community partnership.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Birdlife Shoalhaven has an exciting project in the pipeline, which involves the collaborative efforts of Milton's local landholders and South East Local Land Services. The groups have partnered up to build the Shoalhaven's first bird hides, to be located at the Wilford Lane Wetlands near Milton.
The Milton Ulladulla region has proved to be very rich and diverse in birdlife and, in particular, the Wilfords Lane Wetlands - with over 134 species having been recorded in this small area. The bird hides will provide shelter, often camouflaged, that will allow people to watch wildlife at close quarters.
Charles Dove, one of Birdlife Shoalhaven's keenest twitchers, developed the idea for the hides after speaking with local landholders and South East local land services officers.
Ulladulla Men's Shed agreed to construct the hides if Mr Dove had some plans drawn up.
"At present the plans and costings have been submitted to [South East Local Land Services] and we are waiting to see if he can organise the necessary funding," Mr Dove said.
If successful, volunteers will work to assemble the hides at the wetlands. A couple of signs for each bird hide have also been costed, and will include the history of the Wetlands, as well as many bird photos and a bird list of this special area.
Birdlife Shoalhaven member Yolande Cozijn said following the construction of the Milton bird hides, the group hoped they could be installed in other areas.
"We are working to construct a bird viewing platform at Lake Wollumboola currently," she said.
"We will also be looking for new sites to develop throughout the year."
Birdlife Shoalhaven has more than 200 members, and Ms Cozijn said these hides would make a big difference for bird watchers and enthusiasts.
"It's incredible we have so many important areas for bird life but no facilities for people to come and look," she said.
"More platforms, seats and information will be fantastic for people, because it will allow them to learn more."