A Word from the SAF (March 2024)
The Black Falcon (Falco subniger) is a striking large raptor found in the Riverina region of New South Wales. Distinguished by its dark plumage, white chin, and pale barring under the wings and tail, the Black Falcon possesses a light, quick flapping style, contrasting with the hovering behavior of its counterpart, the Brown Falcon. With a habitat spanning woodlands, agricultural land, and watercourses, these majestic birds nest in the tallest trees within mature woodland patches or on artificial structures like power pylons or windmill platforms.
As apex predators, Black Falcons play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by preying on a variety of species including galahs, corellas, rabbits, rodents, and locusts. However, despite their ecological importance, the Black Falcon faces numerous threats leading to its declining population, including habitat loss, nest destruction, collisions with man-made structures, and poisoning from pesticides.
Recognising the urgent need for conservation efforts, the Riverina Local Land Services’ Natural Resource Management team has initiated the Securing the Black Falcon in the Riverina Project. This project aims to protect and enhance native nesting sites, improve foraging habitats, and establish new artificial nesting sites. Funded activities include pest animal control, weed management, revegetation, advanced monitoring, and nest site protection.
Landholders within the Black Falcon’s distribution area, spanning from Narrandera to west of Hay, are encouraged to participate in the project. Whether they have observed Black Falcons in their locality, have active or inactive nests on their property, or possess potential nesting habitat, their involvement is vital in safeguarding these vulnerable birds.
Kate Jenkins, from the Riverina Local Land Services, can provide further information and assistance regarding the project. Interested individuals can reach out to her at the contact details below. By working collaboratively with local communities, landholders, and conservationists, efforts to conserve the Black Falcon can help ensure the preservation of biodiversity and the continued health of Riverina’s ecosystems.
Kate Jenkins
M: 0448 222 954
E: kate.jenkins@lls.nsw.gov.au
This article was written by Jade Auldist. Jade is the Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator for the Riverina region. Her role supports farmers, industry and community groups (including Landcare Groups) to adopt new and innovative sustainable agriculture practices.
For further information on this article, please contact Jade at jade.auldist@lls.nsw.gov.au.
