In the Wild

from regional extinction. This may be an exaggeration, however, there is no doubt that the weed species are at least an important short-term supplement to the sometimes-infrequent fruit and seed supply

I remember walking down to the Maleny weir a few years ago to do a bit of bird photography, and what I saw there has always struck with me. I saw Brown Cuckoo-Doves feeding on Wild Tobacco, Silvereyes feeding on Blackberry Nightshade, Dusky Honeyeaters feeding on Lantana, Topknot Pigeons and White-headed Pigeons feeding on Broad-leaf Privet, and Red-browed Finch feeding on the seeds of introduced grasses, all introduced weed species.

I couldn’t help thinking, would these birds even be here if not for the weeds, but wouldn’t it have been so much better if they were all feeding on native plants. The loss of native plant species and invasion of weeds may also mean that some of the other bird species could be at risk as they may not be able to supplement their diet with weed species.

I’m not suggesting for a moment that weed species should not be removed, in fact of course they should be removed. However, in a given area I believe they should be removed incrementally and be immediately replaced with suitable native species. This will ensure an ongoing food source for our native birds, while giving the new native trees time to mature and produce a new source of food.

We are fortunate to have several Landcare groups on the range, and also re-vegetation consultants and fantastic local native plant nurseries. So, if you can, get involved with native re-vegetation, our native birds will thank you.

About That Tree

with Tree Surgeon Tony Wootton, our local arborist and author, meeting the Hinterland's tree needs since 1996 with Spencer Shaw

Afew of our clients have expressed concerns about the upcoming bushfire season. Fortunately, in my experience, the vegetation that is supported by the red soils of the Maleny plateau is not particularly prone to bushfire.

As soon as the soil type changes out the back of Reesville however, I have seen severe bushfire damage.

Of course the species of vegetation plays a huge part in bushfire risk, with the greatest risk being presented by the Eucalyptus genus.

On the other hand, the broadleaved rainforest species supported by our red soil, can even have fire retardant qualities, a good reason to plant them in your garden. Obviously too, if the weather conditions get really dry, the risk also increases.