Logging in Tasmania Threatens Swift Parrot Habitat Amid Controversy
The swift parrot’s distinctive call was recorded dozens of times in a patch of Tasmanian forest. Then the forest was logged
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
In Tasmania, the swift parrot, a critically endangered species, was recorded in a forest area marked for logging. Despite evidence of its habitat, logging proceeded, raising concerns about environmental protections and the bird's survival, with population estimates dropping to around 750 individuals.
- 01The swift parrot's call was recorded in a logging area in Wielangta forest, Tasmania.
- 02Logging agency Sustainable Timber Tasmania claims compliance with environmental laws.
- 03Scientific advice suggests all swift parrot habitats should be protected from logging.
- 04The swift parrot population has declined significantly, from 2,000 to about 750 in a decade.
- 05Campaigners are urging retailers to avoid timber sourced from controversial logging areas.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
In December and January, scientists from the Bob Brown Foundation recorded the call of the swift parrot, a critically endangered migratory bird, in the Wielangta forest in southeastern Tasmania, an area earmarked for logging. Despite 68 observations indicating the area was used for foraging and nesting, logging proceeded, leading to concerns about the effectiveness of environmental protections. The logging agency, Sustainable Timber Tasmania, stated it operates within legal frameworks, but critics argue that current laws fail to adequately protect the swift parrot's habitat. The swift parrot population has plummeted from 2,000 a decade ago to about 750 today, with predictions of potential extinction by the early 2030s. Campaigns are underway to pressure retailers like Bunnings to cease sourcing timber from areas like coupe WT003E, highlighting the disconnect between logging practices and environmental sustainability. The upcoming changes to national environmental laws in 2027 may alter the regulatory landscape, potentially requiring federal approval for logging that impacts threatened species.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The logging of swift parrot habitats could lead to further decline in their population, affecting local biodiversity and ecological balance.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you support stronger protections for endangered species like the swift parrot?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.




