The birds are all enjoying the warm weather and deciding it is time to lay eggs. Our 5441 6200 Hotline often has calls come through for eggs needing incubation. This week two lorikeet eggs were delivered by Biodiverse-Environmental staff. It is wonderful that they take the time to save these eggs. So often when trees are taken down there is little concern for the inhabitants.
The hatching rate of wild birds always amazes me. Usually 100% of the plover eggs incubated will hatch. They are a lot of work to rear initially but this is for a fairly short period of time. These are the first eggs since the masked lapwing (plover) eggs. Those little chicks, eating all the carers earthworms and bugs, look huge now.
It is not easy to find somewhere to lay eggs now, so bird species do nest in some unusual places. Masked lapwings will nest on a roof. Lorikeets often manage to find that tree that is getting removed. Tree hollows are disappearing so the hollow-dependent birds and marsupials are finding it a struggle. It is a safety issue if a big tree is near the house, but those out in the paddock including the dead ones should be left as habitat for wildlife.
How lovely it is to have these sunny days. I’m sure the wildlife are as happy as we humans!
Donna Brennan Wildlife Volunteers Assoc Inc (WILVOS) PO Box 4805 Sunshine Coast Mail Centre Q 4560 PH 5441 6200 www.wilvos.org.au