They will fly up to 10 kilometres from their nest sites in search of it. Among the blue gums, the best nectar producers are often large, old trees. In good seasons a single farm tree smothered in white blossom may attract 50 or more Swift Parrots at a time. With great skill and speed they will weave in and out of the leaves, searching for flowers filled with nectar. In poor flowering seasons, the number of Swift Parrots appears to decline.
Scientists believe many pairs are unlikely to breed because of lack of correct food.
More than 30 Swift Parrots are killed or injured in Tasmania each summer after flying into windows, wire mesh fences and other human made structures. Dr. Stone said the Swift Parrots are returning to Tasmania later than usual this year, so people still have time to reduce bird hazards around the home. Apart from reducing hazards for the birds, the project's emphasis is on revegetation and management of the birds' fragmented habitat, the rehabilitation of injured birds and regular surveys of bird numbers. Dr. Stone today visited Mount Nelson Primary School to view the students' contribution, including how they have improved the visibility of tennis court nets by attaching streamers, and their effort to increase birds' habitat by planting Blue Gums. All Rights Reserved.