Leipoa ocellata
Malleefowl are large, ground-dwelling birds that roost in trees but rarely fly. These birds have evolved a sophisticated system for incubating their eggs. Malleefowl build elaborate mounds in sandy soil that are filled with organic matter which produces heat as it rots. By opening and closing the mound Malleefowl are able to precisely regulate the temperature of the nest.
As their name suggests, Malleefowl occupy semi-arid regions of southern Australia where mallee eucalypts form the dominant vegetation. Their distribution was once larger and less fragmented, but the widespread clearing of mallee has reduced this area considerably.
Malleefowl require large, long-unburnt blocks of mallee to survive. Although there are some large mallee reserves within their range, large areas are burnt too frequently to support Malleefowl populations. Malleefowl densities are also highest in areas with quality soils and good rainfall. However, these areas have been preferentially cleared for agriculture.
According to the Action Plan for Australian Birds 2000, the Malleefowl is vulnerable.
Download the  2008 South East Malleefowl Newsletter put together by the Department for Environment and Heritage and the South East Natural Resources Management Board. |
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Conservation 
