Squatter Pigeon

Melissa Marie

THE CRITICALLY vulnerable squatter pigeon, found only in northeastern Australia, is readily identifiable by its distinctive black and white facial markings and the white stripe up each of its sides.

Making its home in arid and semiarid areas, including grasslands, this striking bird, with its mottled brown wings and metallic green and purple patch, prefers sandy areas close to water.

Feeding on the ground, they dine on grass seeds, herbs, and shrubs, as well as insects.

Predation by cats and foxes, loss of habitat, and the destruction of nests by cattle and sheep have led to a dramatic decline in the numbers of the squatter pigeon.

It has been noted that the species has not recovered from significant declines since the 1870s.

city farm PLANT OF THE MONTH –

Westringia

WESTRINGIA, commonly known as native or coastal rosemary; they are less flamboyant than bottle brush. They are hardy and will tolerate cold, frost, drought, and moisture. Westringia attract small birds and grow to 2m height x 4m width and are easy to shape.

Westringias are the quiet achievers of the native plant community. Westringias are fastgrowing bushy plants that will retain their dense foliage, and many of the varieties will naturally form well rounded bushy shapes. Westringia varieties make excellent hedges and borders in native gardens.

Cooloola City Farm stock Westringia Fruticosa (known as rosemary), Westringia Silver, Westringia Zena, Westringia Wynyabbie Gem. All these are readily available.

Cooloola City Farm Nursery is located opposite the Community Centre at 17 Amity Place off Tin Can Bay Road.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 8am-3pm 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month 8am-12 noon Cash or EFTPOS acceptable

Phone: 0422 215 953

Email address: ccfni09@gmail.com