Regional surveys of the endangered Mount Lofty Ranges Southern Emu-wren (Stipiturus malachurus intermedius) were recently conducted across our Watchalunga Nature Reserve and surrounding areas, and we are delighted to report that there have been record sightings of these tiny and elusive birds!

We know that habitat plays a critical role in supporting the territorial Emu-wrens, and our annual planting days conducted at Watchalunga since 2017 have played a significant role in restoring the thick shrub that these birds prefer for nesting and hiding.

We also know that birds don’t care about property boundaries. The biosphere project we commenced in early 2023 progresses the wildlife corridors beyond our nature reserve to the valuable landscapes beyond, inspiring and mobilising local communities to protect and restore further habitat within the lower Finniss and Tookayerta catchments.

This recent survey shows auspicious results of these efforts, with not only more Emu-wrens sighted within Watchalunga Nature Reserve but Emu-wrens in adjacent external areas where they haven’t been previously recorded, such as neighbouring council land.

The survey results also indicate connectivity between these areas, which is important in terms of habitat connectivity, strengthening breeding through varied genetics and enhancing the population across the region.

Our Science and Knowledge team will undertake further surveys in the region later in the year to continue monitoring the population and spread.

Our current Vital Work Appeal is supporting critical activity at Watchalunga Nature Reserve that will enable us to maintain and increase the positive actions and results. Learn more and donate here.

We will also be undertaking our annual member Watchalunga Planting Day in July to establish even more critical habitat for the Emu-wrens. See the Events section of our website for details and registration.

Photo by Subbu Conley.

This survey has been generously supported by funding from the Disney Conservation Fund.