Artificial nesting hollows for the conservation of Carnaby’s cockatoo Calyptorhynchus latirostris: definitely not a case of erect and forget

Abstract

Context Loss of nest hollows in eucalypt woodlands is a major cause of decline for a range of Australian native birds including Carnaby’s cockatoo Calyptorhynchus latirostris, resulting in fewer nest sites for this species. Provision of artificial nesting hollows for Carnaby’s cockatoo is a recent part of approved environmental offsets under Western Australian and Australian government environment approvals processes. Aims We examined the continuing utility of natural and artificial nest hollows over time at Coomallo Creek, WA. Methods Data collected included the location of natural hollows, and their rates of utility and decay. We also installed artificial hollows and measured their use over time, as well as costs associated with their installation and maintenance. Key results Both nest types require repairs on average every 3–4 years. Repairs extend the working life of natural nest hollows and ensure that any artificial nest hollows established for conservation management purposes should continue to fulfil their purpose. Our results demonstrate the importance of regular maintenance to ensure hollows remain available for breeding cockatoos. Conclusions Artificial nest hollows provide a short-term solution to a larger problem of loss of native woodlands, but will only serve that purpose if current and future artificial nest hollows are monitored and repaired on a regular basis, and that adequate funds are provided to ensure that those nest hollows remain serviceable. Implications Provision and maintenance of large numbers of artificial hollows in association with restoration/replanting of woodlands in breeding areas is the only long-term solution to loss of breeding habitat.