Aircraft Crew’s Distressing Discovery About Aussie Waterbirds
Aussie flight crew finds alarming drop in waterbird populations across four states
Australia, Waterbirds, NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland
New South Wales: A recent survey by an Aussie flight crew revealed a shocking decline in waterbird numbers across four states. They found that the population has dropped significantly, which is pretty concerning.
Researchers from the University of NSW reported a 50% decrease in waterbirds since 2023. That’s a drop from over 579,000 to about 287,000. While this isn’t the worst result in the survey’s 42-year history, it still raises alarms.
Professor Richard Kingsford, who led the survey, pointed out that even though bird populations usually rise after heavy rains, the overall trend is worrying. The baseline for these populations seems to be shifting downward.
He likened it to a tennis ball bouncing lower and lower. Even during wet periods, the numbers just aren’t reaching the heights they used to. Kingsford believes we might not have hit rock bottom yet, as the region is getting drier.
After some wet years, the numbers bounced back, but this year they’ve taken a nosedive. Not only are fewer birds being counted, but breeding numbers are also down. Even the Australian white ibis, which seems to be thriving in cities, is nesting less in rural areas.
Counting these birds is a bit of a spectacle. The crew flies at about 50 meters above the water, calling out the numbers like race callers. It’s a method that’s been used for decades, and it’s pretty effective.
While Kingsford enjoys flying over these areas, it’s tough to see once-thriving waterways now looking abandoned. He finds it pretty disheartening.
On a positive note, he appreciates the federal government’s efforts to boost environmental water flows in the Murray Darling Basin. He thinks communities are learning from past mistakes about water management that hurt ecosystems.
Habitat loss is a huge issue, and Kingsford emphasizes that it’s the main factor affecting bird populations. Building dams and taking water from rivers has left less space for birds to breed.
Duck shooting is still a hot topic. While it’s banned in some states, South Australia has an annual season. In Victoria, there’s been a push to ban it, reflecting public sentiment. However, some unions are against the ban, leading to political tension.
Kingsford’s research shows that while recreational shooting does impact some species, it’s not the main problem. He sees it as a minor issue compared to the larger threat of habitat loss.
It’s a complex situation, and the future of these waterbirds depends on how we manage their habitats and resources.