The Kangaroo Island glossy black-cockatoo is an Australian conservation success story rooted in partnership and persistence. Once reduced to historically low numbers, this iconic species faced renewed threat after the 2019–20 bushfires that burned large areas of sheoak, critical feeding habitat.
In response, the Landscape Board, private landholders, community volunteers and research partners ramped up recovery actions focused on habitat protection, nest-box installation and ongoing monitoring. Annual census work now captures one of the most comprehensive population datasets for the species in Australia. Coupled with strategic restoration of sheoak woodland and targeted predator management, this coordinated effort has driven measurable improvement in population resilience.
The Project exemplifies adaptive natural resource management — turning science into action, informing habitat interventions, and strengthening community stewardship.
This program has been funded by the Australia Government through the Saving Native Species with contributions from other funders including the state government, private conservation partners and individuals.
“Protecting the glossy black-cockatoo isn’t just about boosting numbers — it’s about weaving together community effort, long-term monitoring and habitat restoration for enduring biodiversity outcomes.”
