Published on Tuesday, 25 June 2024 at 4:09:58 PM

The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale has intensified its efforts to prevent the endangered black cockatoo from
disappearing from the Shire by installing two new water drinking stations at key sites.

The water stations, known as Cockitroughs, will provide a crucial source for birds, particularly the iconic
Carnaby’s black cockatoo, which is native to southwest Western Australia and facing the threat of extinction.
Reliable access to fresh water is becoming problematic for the birds, as temperatures rise, and average rainfall
decreases year on year.

Shire President Rob Coales affirmed the Shire’s commitment to caring for and protecting native wildlife.
“We are extremely lucky in the Shire, as we host populations of all three black cockatoo species”, President
Coales added.

“We strategically selected sites in Whitby and Byford for the Cockitrough installations because these areas
are rich with trees that the cockatoos use for foraging.

“These are well-protected habitats, which are ideal locations for these vital water stations,” President Coales
said. “We will continue to do all we can to ensure these remarkable birds are enabled to thrive in our beautiful
Shire.”

Originally designed by the Town of Victoria Park, the Cockitroughs feature multiple shallow drinking platforms
connected to mains water. They are self-flushing to remain clean and elevated to protect birds from predators.
The installation of these troughs is part of the "Keep Carnabys Flying – Ngoolarks Forever Project," a
collaborative effort between Murdoch University, environmental NGOs, Aboriginal organisations, and local
governments.

This initiative is a partnership between the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale, Murdoch University, Landcare SJ,
and Peel-Harvey Catchment Council, supported by a Lotterywest Grant.

The project aims to safeguard all three native species of black cockatoos by providing essential resources like
water stations and developing conservation action plans.

Community members can contribute by observing birds at the Cockitroughs and reporting sightings via
naturalareas@sjshire.wa.gov.au. Additionally, planting cockatoo-friendly flora, setting up home water stations,
and volunteering with conservation groups can make a significant impact.

Additionally, residents can assist by planting cockatoo-friendly native plants, setting up home water stations,
and volunteering with local conservation groups.

For more information on the Keep Carnaby’s Flying – Ngoolarks Forever project, visit: Murdoch University
Project Page: https://www.murdoch.edu.au/research/hbi/carnabys.

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