Anyone interested in nature and how to help it is invited to a special Nature Conservation Margaret River Region author talk with habitat and tree hollow expert Simon Cherriman on February 7.
Mr Cherriman has more than 20 years’ experience working as an ornithologist, eagle researcher, wildlife documentary maker and nest box advocate through his business, Insight Ornithology, and a project he started called the Re-Cyc-Ology Project. He has also just published Hollowed Out?, a book all about this topic, which takes a deep dive into the story of tree-hollows, habitat loss and how nest-boxes can help wildlife in south-western Australia. It’s the culmination of more than two decades of study and photography of both natural and artificial tree-hollows, and the wild animals of Noongar country that depend on them.
The nesting box expert, who has featured on Gardening Australia among a host of other media appearances, will discuss his book at the Margaret River HEART from 5.45pm-7.30pm on February 7. Tickets are $10 for Nature Conservation members or $15 for non-members and can be booked through www.natureconservation.org.au or directly through THIS LINK.
As part of the evening, Mr Cherriman will discuss our region’s remarkable trees, the unique wildlife they support, and the drastic changes wrought by Europeans on one of only two official biodiversity hotspots in Australia in the past two centuries. But his nest-box narrative also provides optimism for the future.
Copies of Hollowed Out? will also be available for purchase on the night. Critics describe it as an exploration of the wide world of wood and wildlife, and the book provides a wealth of information on how to build, install, monitor and maintain durable, pest-resistant nest-boxes that cater for a suite of backyard wildlife.
Nature Conservation officer Peta Lierich says large old trees that have developed hollows are vital for many native animals – but many of these trees have been lost due to clearing. “There’s now a severe shortage for hollow-using animals like owls, cockatoos, micro bats and mammals. But a well-researched and designed nest boxes on your property can be a major win for wildlife,” Ms Lierich says.
Mr Cherriman will also be in Margaret River on February 18 for a hands-on nest box building workshop also organised by Nature Conservation.