Burhinus grallarius

It is currently listed as an Endangered species in NSW (under the Threatened Species Conservation Act) which means that it is likely or is in immediate danger of becoming extinct.

Estimations show that only 1000 breeding pairs are left in this State and all efforts are needed to ensure the long term survival of this important species.

What Does It Look Like?

The Bush Stone-Curlew (BSC) is a large ground dwelling bird endemic to Australia. It stands at around 50 - 60 centimeters high, with long gangly legs, large yellow eyes, and a mottles brown, white and grey plumage.  

Where Does It Live?

The Bush Stone Curlew inhabits open forests and woodlands with a sparse grassy ground layer and fallen timber. Although not usually a bird of wetlands, many of the birds reported in NSW coastal districts in the more recent years have been associated with mangroves and saltmarshes in estuaries, often in island situations where they are afforded protection from foxes, dogs and cats. In NSW, they were formally widespread and abundant, but its numbers are now much reduced and its distribution fragmented. In Pittwater, Bush Stone-curlews have been recorded regularly at Careel Bay for the last 60 years. Four individuals were reported as being present in August 2009 (Pittwater Council records).

What Does It Eat And What Is Its Life Cycle?

The BSC are nocturnal which means that they spend most of the day resting in woodlands. It can be heard after dark by its distinctive whistling and wailing "wer-loo wer-loo" calls. They feed on seeds, fruits and other plant material, a variety of insects and other invertebrates, as well as small reptiles and frogs. One to three eggs, usually two, are laid on the ground amongst trees or in the open. In NSW, eggs are laid between August and January. Extra care should be taken in this time.

What Are The Threats?

There are a number of factors which threaten the survival of the BSC. They include

• Foxes, Cats and Dogs
• Habitat Loss
• Degradation of Remnant Vegetation

What Can You Do To Help?

• Keeping your dogs and cats within your property and out of the wetlands at all times
• Composting your tree and lawn clippings and not dumping them on any surrounding Saltmarsh and Mangroves
• Remaining on the designated pathways and not walking on the Saltmarsh areas
• Maintaining important Bush Stone Curlew habitat by retaining wood and logs in the wetlands and at the rear of properties adjoining the Saltmarsh
• Reporting any sightings to Council or National Parks and Wildlife Service
• Join your local Bushcare group and help maintain the habitat for the Bush Stone-Curlews (ph: Bushcare Officer ph: 9970 1111)
• Reporting any sightings to Council or National Parks and Wildlife Service

 What Is Council Doing?

• Weed removal
• Management of stormwater
• Restoring Saltmarsh with funding from the Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority
• Facilitating community events: free Walk & Talks (ph: 9970 6905)
  

Legal Status & Protection

 Anyone found harming protected fauna can be convicted under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 and face criminal penalties of up to $220,000 and or two years in prison. 

More Information

If you would like further information of the Bush Stone-Curlew and how you can help them further you can contact Birds Australia on 9436 0388.

Updated: 06 Dec 2011