Wildlife in Mount Nelson has a new hiding place with the revitalisation of a dead black gum tree into a ‘habitat hotel.’
The large, 60-year old black gum (Eucalyptus ovata) on Brinsmead Road died suddenly in January 2022, and was much loved by locals. Mature gum trees provide hollows for native wildlife, including threatened species such as the 40-spotted pardalote, swift parrot, as well as bats and owls.
“While artificial nest boxes can provide some refuge for local birds, the hollows and holes in native trees provide a much more natural location,” Said Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds. “So a tree like this one can remain a part of the ecosystem and continue to provide a haven for local wildlife.”
Having been assessed by a City of Hobart arborist, it was determined that the tree would be safe to remain in situ. The tree was made safe through the removal of large branches, and will remain on the City’s proactive street inspection cycle to ensure ongoing safety and stability.
The project to turn the tree into a ‘habitat hotel’ is in conjunction with Mount Nelson Primary school, who were given the opportunity to observe the work of the arborists, and learn about the importance of native trees, particularly the value to local birds and other wildlife as habitats and havens.
Less than 10% of Black Gum woodlands have survived in Tasmania since European settlement. They are an important food source and habitat for a large variety of local wildlife.
