Malleefowl (in the Mallee)

The Wychitella Nature Conservation Reserve is the home of the most southerly known population of Malleefowl. It is possible to learn a great deal about this threatened species from the information sign at Jacka park rest area in Wedderburn. The Wedderburn Conservation Management Network, in conjunction with the Loddon Shire have recently erected signs on the Wychitella Road, alerting motorists to be aware that Malleefowl have been seen crossing that road, and to take care.

The opportunity to learn more about the Malleefowl and visit different areas was not to be missed by the WCMN “Observers”. At Wandown Flora and Fauna reserve (near Boundary Bend) they joined with members of the Victorian Malleefowl Recovery group to assist with research field work. This involved collecting Malleefowl feathers from the vicinity of active mounds. The DNA from these feathers will be examined for genetic study of Malleefowl populations. At this time of year Malleefowl chicks are hatching and some were sighted during the fieldwork. Eggshell pieces were also collected for DNA.

The Malleefowl mounds at Wandown are quite different from those seen locally. Very sandy, and shaped with great care, displaying the active attention of the birds currently working the mounds. This was an excellent opportunity to gain an increased understanding of this most interesting bird that we are fortunate to still have in small numbers in the local environment.

Article - Wedderburn Conservation Management Network “Observers”

Photo Caption: Malleefowl sign on Wychitella Road