Objectives
The primary aim of nesting box installation programs such as this one is to provide safe, alternative habitats for the region's hollow-dependent wildlife. With the rapid decline of natural tree hollows due to urban development, bushfires, and firewood collection, nesting boxes are essential for supporting species such as parrots, owls and arboreal mammals, including possums, sugar gliders and microbats. By offering high-quality, custom-built nesting solutions tailored to the specific needs of various animal species, this initiative seeks to enhance wildlife survival and biodiversity in the area.
Situation
Victoria is home to many hollow-dependent species, yet the availability of natural hollows is rapidly diminishing. The clearing of older trees for urban expansion and firewood, combined with the destruction caused by bushfires, has significantly reduced nesting, roosting, and shelter options for wildlife in areas such as Whittlesea. Additionally, the formation of new tree hollows takes decades, if not centuries, creating a long-term deficit of secure homes for these animals. The loss of suitable habitats puts numerous species at risk, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
The Brief
In light of the declining numbers of older trees across Victoria, we collaborated with Whittlesea Council to provide nesting box solutions in areas identified as having vulnerable bird and mammal populations. This project addressed the pressing need to restore essential habitats for hollow-dependent species, creating a scalable solution that effectively replicated the function of tree hollows. It was crucial to consider the specific habitat and size requirements of different species, such as possums, birds, and microbats, to ensure the success of the nesting boxes.
The Solution
The Whittlesea Council nesting box project involved community groups designing and constructing high-quality, species-specific nesting boxes for areas with depleted natural hollows. Recognising the unique nesting needs of each species, various designs were created to mimic different hollow types. Larger boxes were tailored for brushtail possums and cockatoos, while smaller, more enclosed designs suited pygmy possums and microbats.
Our team installed the Whittlesea nest boxes and can design, build and install nesting boxes. Optimal locations were chosen, and experienced climbers carefully positioned the boxes to ensure maximum accessibility for the target species. We also implemented ongoing monitoring efforts, including the use of cameras, to assess the boxes' adoption rates and overall effectiveness. This initiative addressed the immediate loss of natural hollows and supported native populations as a short-term solution within long-term ecosystem restoration plans.
Results
The installation of nesting boxes successfully attracted several species, with possums, birds, and microbats quickly utilising these alternative homes. This initiative contributed significantly to the survival of local wildlife populations, particularly in areas impacted by recent bushfires. Our ongoing monitoring observed adoption rates as the new nest boxes offered suitable alternative homes. This initiative addressed the immediate loss of natural hollows and supported native populations as a short-term solution within long-term ecosystem restoration plans.