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Since the first issue of State of Australia's Birds (SOAB) was produced by Birds Australia in 2003, the publication has explored vital conservation issues concerning birds and wetlands, woodlands, invasive species and climate change. In the 2008 issue, we cast a comprehensive and critical eye over the population trends that have been detected since SOAB 2003 set the baseline in monitoring Australia's birds. SOAB 2008 is full of sobering information that is crucial for decision makers and responsible land managers to ensure the survival of Australia's birds.
The results of dozens of long-term monitoring studies are examined, and it's a mixed bag, with some good news, lots that is less favourable and some whose overall meaning is unclear. Populations of several species that are fortunate enough to be the focus of recovery plans are on the rise, while many insectivorous woodland birds and various wetland species (including migratory shorebirds such as Eastern Curlew, Curlew Sandpipers and Latham's Snipe) are faring the worst. And some of the results are startling to say the least: for example, who would have thought that the Australian Magpie and Galah, both apparently so common and widespread, could actually be in decline in a number of regions? There's plenty of thought-provoking information on offer. Click here to download  SOAB 2008.
The report is being launched by federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett at Parliament House, Canberra on 25 February 2009. |
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