A Wild September: 11 Eastern Bristlebirds Released

Amazing news from our Avian Conservation team: We successfully released 11 Eastern Bristlebirds bred in specialist care into a brand-new site in the stunning Border Ranges of NSW. This brings our total number of birds released over the last three years to 51 – and yep, we could not be happier!

Every Bird Release is a Bit of an Adventure

No two release events are the same, and this one certainly kept us on our toes. Natural food supplies at the site were lower than expected, so we rolled out an extended supplementary feeding program to keep our new arrivals healthy and well-fed. While this meant a bit of extra work for the team, it also gave us more chances to observe and monitor the birds closely during their early days in the wild.

We’re seeing some promising behaviour already. Most of the birds have stayed close to their release tents, but they’re gradually getting bolder and venturing further afield. Our field crew is regularly spotting individuals out and about, looking healthy and alert. That’s exactly what we want to see!

👉 More Eastern Bristlebird facts

Cameras, Visitors, and Unexpected Guests

To keep an eye on things, we fitted the release tents with cameras. These not only give us great footage of the Eastern Bristlebirds using the tents, but also capture surprise visits from local wildlife, including some curious wild Bristlebirds who’ve clearly caught wind of the buffet on offer.

👀 Watch exclusive footage of it here

Sadly, we did have one loss early on, a female bird that was likely taken by a raptor. Predation is a natural part of the ecosystem, but it’s always tough to lose one of the birds we raised and cared for. However, this is all part of reintroducing species into the wild, and we continue to learn and adapt with every release.

A Blast from the Past: One Bird’s Comeback Story

Now for some really exciting news! While surveying a previous release site, our field team spotted a Bristlebird bred in our program and from our very first release – with a mate! Together, they were collecting nesting material. You know what that means?! This little legend hadn’t been seen since January 2023, and to find them alive, paired up, and potentially nesting? That’s the kind of moment we live for.

We now have confirmed sightings of previously released birds at most of our release sites. This is a clear sign that this program is making a real impact on the northern population of this endangered species.

Back at Base: Chicks, Nests, and the Next Generation

Our field crew is now back from the wild and things are buzzing at Garima Conservation Reserve! That’s where we raise the birds as part of our Eastern Bristlebird program. It’s full swing in the Eastern Bristlebird breeding season, with 7 out of our 9 pairs currently raising chicks. These precious little fluffballs are the future, with their eyes (well, beaks) set on the next release event, which is planned for early 2026.

Why We Do What We Do

Working with the Eastern Bristlebird is a privilege. Knowing that we’re helping rebuild a wild population, one bird at a time, is all the motivation we need.

A huge thanks to our partners, supporters, and field teams for making this release a success. The journey continues, and we’re thrilled to be part of it.

We also want to thank the community and everyone who has donated to this program so far. Your support helps make these releases (and the future of this species) possible.

If you’ve been inspired by the work we’re doing and want to get involved, the best way to support the recovery of the Eastern Bristlebird is by donating an item on our wish list. Every little bit helps us protect, raise, and release more of these incredible birds back into the wild.

Thanks for being part of the flock!