Research part 2

The FJ along the fire trails. Works brilliantly in this terrain. The trails are a mix of sandstone, clay, sand and bog. For the FJ cruiser club members the only thing that drives me nuts is the key chime..very awkward when trying to listen to wildlife.

Anyway....

The relationship that development has to our environment is critical, and mans impact, with the corresponding results are becoming evident all around us.
The zone where development meets the national park is a critical example. Its important to balance the preservation of life and property with the preservation of those things I call natural assets.


Dr Wotherspoon indicating a spot for the placement of traps.

In the past we have simply developed areas with little thought as to the consequence of our actions. Arguably resulting in developments where there should be none. As a result, when the needs arise we use a "jack boot" to protect ourselves.
The research being undertaken over the two week period is to study what exists within the 50 metre zone behind houses that back onto the Blue Mountains National Park. By understanding this, plans can be implemented to preserve the natural assets, as well as preserve the properties and lives of people.


Terrain ideal for trapping- hollow logs, bottle brush and banksia and a creek line.

In spending time working with the scientists I received a greater understanding of the relationship between the flora and fauna, and what exists. For example evidence of Bandicoot and Pigmy Possum existing only a few metres from back fences. Glossy Black cockatoos have "larder trees". These trees have a higher nutritional value than other trees and become preferred.


Eastern Pygmy Possum ( example not what we had at the time)

I also learned of the negative impact of unleaded fuels on the reproductive organs of the bearded dragon. This tied in with Dr Jim Fowlers research on declining Sparrow populations in London as a direct result of unleaded petrol- A bit "scary" when you think of the potential risks to us living in cities.


Setting traps.

So, you see? What we do impacts on the environment and therefore impacts back on us. Not just in the saving of property but in the long term as well. The health of the environment is the health in us.


Bandicoot

This week we will do an evening spotlighting and during the day makes notes on the tree species. We will use recordings of various night birds to attract them. BAts should be about too. I cannot wait!