By NICOLE VALICEK
ONE of the most brilliant coloured bird species made a welcome return to Melton after not being spotted in the area for more than 100 years.
Today, more than 160 bird species have been observed in and around Melton, including the Rainbow Lorikeets that arrived in the area in 2001 after a century-long absence – that’s the word from president of the newly formed Melton Bird Group (MBG) Daryl Akers.
There is also a wealth of parrots, rosellas, cockatoos, galah’s and even eagles to see in the area.
“Anybody who has a passing interest; you don’t have to be an expert the MBG is mainly targeted at people that don’t really have knowledge about birds,” Mr Akers said.
The MBG – a sub-division of the Melton Environment Group is inviting interested people to join them and learn how to enjoy the large number of bird species both exotic and native in the Melton area.
MEG president Daryl Akers said since its inception the group has worked to restore the vegetation around creeks and plant trees in order for the wildlife and bird population to return, repopulate and flourish in the area.
“If you want the birds to come back they need somewhere to live so you need to restore and protect the environment that’s already here and enhance it for them,” Mr Akers said.
Mr Akers believes planting native trees and nests has encouraged birds to come back to the area.
The MEG will host its first bird walk at the Caroline Springs wetland on Thursday 24 January.
For more information contact daryljakers@gmail.com.au or 0438 277 252.
