Spotlight on Diversity and Conservation
Spotlight on Diversity and Conservation
Spotlighting our regions nocturnal native wildlife as a fun way to engage the community in conserving biodiversity.
Building our Future -
LLCI031-064
The issue
Engaging the urban community, particularly children, in the conservation of biodiversity is an ongoing process for Granite Borders Landcare. Granite Borders Landcare Committee wanted to pursue new and interesting ways to establish long term interest in the conservation of biodiversity. We also wanted to showcase our regions amazing National Parks and educate the community on the importance of these conservation areas in protecting vital habitat for future generations.
The solution
Landcare partnered with NSW National Parks to host a 'Wildlife Spotlighting' event to engage the community in a fun way to explore the nocturnal biodiversity in the region. The event was held at Mt Mackenzie Lookout where our Ranger Michael spoke on what wildlife we may see at night. He also played some 'calls' of possum and owl species as a way to be able to identify species without actually spotting them. Habitat destruction & fragmentation was seen as having the greatest impact on our regions wildlife species with conservation and re-vegetation activities seen as a way to help.
The impact
This event attracted 45 participants from which 38 had not been to a Landcare event previously. Our National Parks Ranger Michael's enthusiasm for conservation and native animals compelled the group out into the crisp night air to explore the area. An abundance of nocturnal animals were seen which resulted in many parents and children making the comment that spotlighting will be a regular activity in their lives from now on.
Learnings
Conducting the event on the last day of school gave the activity a real party feel and a great time was had by both parents and children. The comments from the parents were extremely positive and the enthusiastic and intelligent questions from the children to the Michael the Ranger was very encouraging. Through hosting such a well received and fun activity for the children we are certain that the future of Landcare is in good hands.
Key facts
- 45 participants from which 38 had never been to a Landcare event previously so extending Landcares reach into the community.
- Built on and maintained partnership between Landcare and National Parks and Wildlife Service staff.