Over the past few months, camera traps have been quietly capturing moments of life across Macarthur Memorial Park – not of people, but of the many animals that call the park home. This initiative is part of our broader commitment to conservation, helping us better understand the site’s ecology and the species that move through it.
The motion-activated cameras are strategically placed throughout the park’s natural areas and regeneration zones. They provide valuable insights into wildlife activity, including where different species travel, feed, and shelter. This information helps guide future habitat protection, bushland regeneration, and site planning decisions.
What we’ve discovered
So far, the results have been both exciting and informative. The footage has confirmed the presence of a rich variety of native wildlife, as well as some pest species that we are now monitoring more closely.
Native Species Identified Include:
- Swamp Wallaby (Wallabia bicolor)
- Eastern Grey Kangaroo (Macropus giganteus)
- Lace Monitor (Varanus varius)
- Red-Bellied Black Snake (Pseudechis porphyriacus)
- White-Faced Heron (Egretta novaehollandiae)
- Great Egret (Ardea alba)
- Superb Fairy-wren (Malurus cyaneus)
- Australian Wood Ducks – now frequently seen across the park
- Laughing Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae)
- Magpie-Lark (Grallina cyanoleuca)
- Noisy Miner (Manorina melanocephala)
- Noisy Friarbird (Philemon corniculatus) – a species never previously recorded on-site
- Each of these species contributes to the health and vibrancy of the park’s ecosystems, playing a role in pollination, pest control, and maintaining natural balance.
Pest Species Monitored:
- Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
- Feral or Domestic Cats
- Rabbits
The presence of pest species is not uncommon in areas undergoing urban development and bushland regeneration. However, now that we’ve confirmed their activity, targeted control measures can be introduced as part of our environmental management program.
Why it matters
This monitoring initiative is about more than just observation – it’s about stewardship. Understanding the movement and behaviour of wildlife helps us manage the park in a way that respects and protects the natural environment while creating a peaceful and sustainable space for families and future generations.
As the Macarthur Memorial Park community continues to grow, so too will our investment in preserving the biodiversity that makes this place special.
We look forward to sharing more updates as the seasons change and our cameras continue to tell the story of life at MMP – above and below the trees.
Recent Comments