The Wild Bird Trust’s Cape Parrot Project and Greenpop are collaborating to restore the Cape Parrot’s habitat in Hogsback, Eastern Cape.
The organisations plan to plant trees to restore the forest for these endemic birds and raise awareness about the bird species.
The Mistbelt Habitat Restoration Project is planning on improving land management and restoring indigenous forests near Hogsback. The Cape Parrot is an endangered species, with only 2000 of them left in the wild.
Dr Steve Boyes, founder of The Cape Parrot Project, said ‘In 2023, the project will focus on restoring a further 3.5 hectares through alien invasive plant management, natural regeneration management, and, where needed, active planting of 5 000 indigenous tree seedlings. By improving land use, this project will assist in increasing several ecosystem services for the local community including climate change adaptation, improved soil stability, increased species biodiversity, and decreased fire risk.’
‘Cape Parrots are typically found in high-altitude Afromontane forests. However. these forests were heavily affected by the historical logging of large hardwood trees (like Yellowwoods). This has caused a shortage of natural nesting sites (in natural tree hollows) which in turn has resulted in low reproductive output.
‘In addition, historical logging reduced food availability, forcing them to seek food away from their natural forest habitat, making them more vulnerable to the illegal wild bird trade. Cape Parrots are also susceptible to the highly contagious and often fatal Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease.’
Furthermore, twelve people have already been employed to help with the rehabilitation of the land and reforestation.
Pictures: Getaway Gallery
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