A distressed Wattlebird pair and their nesting fledgling have been endangered in a severely pruned Crepe Myrtle tree near the IGA Gerringong front door entrance by the severe pruning of their tree and surrounding trees along the car park outside the IGA.

 Local and Former Gerringong residents have raised concerns to The Bugle over the severe pruning of the trees; none of the branches have been observed with any new branch growth or leaf growth. Staff at IGA say the pruning happened about 2 months ago.

Wattlebird nest in overpruned crepe myrtle tree

The aggressive pruning has left the nest exposed, putting the mother bird at risk from potential predators like crows and magpies.

When The Bugle visited the nest on Friday 1 December it was clear the nest is within a few metres of the front door of the IGA, and quite close to the pole where shoppers will normally tie up their dogs.

Two Bird rescue organisations contacted by The Bugle (WIRES and WRSC Wildlife Rescue South Coast) confirmed that by the size of the baby wattlebird was a fledgling very close to trying to fly.

“By the size, the bird will start learning to fly under the anxious eyes of its parents within a few days. The crisis will occur if the fledging falls so close to so many humans and dogs. The parents will do their best, but survival chances sadly are not good.”

The organisations confirmed there was no way to move the nest successfully, as the fledgling would be abandoned by the parents, and it would be moved into other birds’ territories.

However, they said the fledgling was most at danger to dogs and a sign could be possibly put on the tree to alert those passing by.

Residents who approached The Bugle emphasised the need for greater awareness regarding the challenges faced by Wattle Birds. They stressed that individuals involved in tree pruning must conduct thorough checks to avoid endangering innocent birds.

Little Wattlebirds are native to south-eastern and south-western Australia, including Tasmania. They thrive in dry, scrubby environments like banksia heaths, forests, woodlands, as well as urban parks and gardens.

The core message is a plea for community awareness about the local fauna and the importance of preserving their habitats. Responsible tree management is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of these vulnerable birds in our midst.