Rodney Stevens
Clarence Valley residents are invited to be part of a vital mission to count and protect the region’s endangered coastal emu population next month as part of the government’s Saving our Species program.
The annual Coastal Emu Population Survey is happening from Friday, October 13, to Sunday, October 15, and with numbers of these amazing birds declining, it has never been more important to keep track of the species and help it thrive.
NSW Department of Planning and Environment Threatened Species Officer, Lia Hooper, said the coastal emu is a genetically distinct population and these remarkable birds are found exclusively on the north coast of New South Wales.
“Formerly widespread across north-eastern New South Wales, coastal emus are now restricted to an area between Evans Head, Red Rock and Bungawalbin,” said Ms Hooper.
“These birds play a crucial ecological role by aiding in the dispersal of fruits and seeds over vast distances across the landscape.
“Coastal emus also hold significant cultural importance to local Aboriginal communities, further underscoring the need for their protection.
“With an estimated population of fewer than 50 individuals, every single bird counts.”
Ms Hooper said local volunteers for the count will make a substantial difference to conservation efforts.
“Participating in the survey will provide the Saving our Species team with valuable data that will aid in the protection of this unique and endangered population of birds,” she said.
Locals can get involved in the count in several ways:
By joining a registered volunteer team, you will be partnered with a threatened species officer to explore designated coastal emu habitats.
If you own property within the coastal emu habitat you can conduct surveys on foot or by vehicle and report your findings using the population survey app or paper survey sheets.
Alternatively, if you own property in habitat areas you can install a provided motion camera device to monitor a site.
To find out more or to register for the 2023 Coastal Emu Population Survey visit https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/news/keeping-up-with-coastal-emu-conservation