The population of one of Australia's most critically endangered bird species has been boosted with the release in NSW of 10 Plains-wanderers onto private properties in the Western Riverina.
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Environment Minister James Griffin said it was a monumental step towards reversing the plight of the small, ground-dwelling species.
"It's thought there are now less than 1000 of these birds in the wild due to threats including grassland habitat loss, severe drought and fox attacks," Mr Griffin said on Monday.
Affectionately dubbed the "Goldilocks bird", they have been reintroduced into a managed habitat that suits their specific requirements that is not too open or dense.
"These birds demonstrate the importance of native grasslands and ecosystems, and by protecting them, we're helping to conserve native grassland habitat, which is critical for a range of other species," Mr Griffin said.
The government is working with private landholders to restore their habitat and protect it so Plains-wanderers can thrive.
"This is a win-win for farmers and the environment, and a true conservation-led partnership to save one of our endangered species," he said.
The program is led by the NSW government's Saving Our Species program and supported by the Biodiversity Conservation Trust, Local Land Services and Taronga Conservation Society Australia.
The birds, which have been released onto private properties near Hay, were hatched at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Taronga Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo.
The private landholders are part of the Paddocks For Plains-wanderers' program, where landholders receive support to manage their ground cover for livestock production and Plains-wanderer conservation.
So far, the program has protected 13,000-plus hectares of Plains-wanderer habitat across the state's Riverina Plains.
Chief Executive of Taronga Conservation Society Australia Cameron Kerr says Plains-wanderers are a unique Australian bird, whose genetic history dates back millions of years.
"This first NSW release is a huge milestone in our conservation efforts for this species, and it is so rewarding seeing these little birds returned to their wild habitat, where we hope they will thrive," he said.
Australian Associated Press
