Rare eastern bristlebirds rescued from fire zones in East Gippsland

Endangered eastern bristlebirds from a colony of up to 180 are set to be moved from fire grounds in Mallacoota to Melbourne Zoo to give them a chance at a future.

Endangered eastern bristlebirds.

A rescue operation is under way to save a rare bird threatened by bushfires.

Mallacoota’s Howe Flat is home to a colony of up to 180 endangered eastern bristlebirds, some of which will be moved to Melbourne Zoo to act as an insurance population in case Howe Flat is burnt by the East Gippsland fires.

Nine birds were trapped on Wednesday — four pairs and a single bird.

The birds, which are not very mobile, are being trapped in fine mist netting, which doesn’t harm them.

Endangered eastern bristlebirds.

They were taken from Brokewells Hut to Mallacoota by boat, then to the aerodrome by car for a flight to Essendon and then on to Melbourne Zoo.

The Australian Defence Force transported the staff.

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Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said: “Our hardworking teams are ensuring this precious little bird has a chance at a bright future despite the impact of these devastating fires, which are still posing a threat to our native wildlife.

“This is fantastic news and a testament to the dedication of multiple agencies working together to save an endangered species.”

The mission started on Monday and is due to take a week weather permitting.

Originally published as Rare eastern bristlebirds rescued from fire zones in East Gippsland