Long neck turtle (Image: Species Survival Commission)

The Trust supports Council’s plans to declare Wildlife Protection Areas (WPAs) in Boronia Park and Buffalo Creek reserves.  WPAs designated under the NSW Companion Animals Act 1998 allow for cats to be prohibited from key wildlife habitat areas.

Boronia Park and Buffalo Creek reserves are part of a regionally significant wildlife corridor along the Lane Cove River.  We are lucky to have a variety of wildlife in our local bushland and appreciate the contribution that Council’s participation in regional programs provides in the protection of native fauna.

WPAs should assist in reducing harm and predation of native species, particularly our diminishing small birds and reptiles.  You can read our letter about Wildlife Protection Areas here.

at Tarban Creek (Image Helen Temple)

A little bit of joyous news:  This beautiful female echidna was spotted in Tarban Creek Reserve today – unbelievable but absolutely true.

It had been waddling across Gladesville Road. We think it might have a burrow and a youngster so did not try and move it. We just hope it doesn’t get hit by a car or attacked by a dog or cat.

Nature is a wonderful thing – I hope we can hang onto our beautiful remnant local bushland!

Image: Alister Sharp

Australian Water Dragons are out and about in Hunters Hill gardens this spring.

The recent drought conditions may be responsible for the visits from these dramatic creatures who are often seen in Brickmakers’ Creek in Boronia Park where there is usually ample flowing water, tree cover and basking sites.  This one trecked 300 meters from the riverfront.

Water Dragons have been around for a really long time.  Fossils found in Queensland show that this genus has existed in Australia for at least 20 million years. They grow to about 90cm in length and live on diet of insects as juveniles, becoming omnivorous as they mature, eating figs, crabs and vegetable matter.  A female in captivity was still producing eggs at age 27.

Check  the Australian Museum for more.  Send us your images of wildlife in suburbia.