WIRES is urging drivers to take care in rural areas with thick vegetation on the sides of the roads to avoid hitting birds such as Pheasant Coucals.
Many birds and animals can dash across the road, or in the case of Pheasant Coucals, inelegantly crash, when they are disturbed, a spokesperson said.
Two such birds are in care now after being separated from their parents.
‘They couldn’t be reunited with their parents so are being raised in captivity together until they are independent,’ the spokesperson said.
‘They are not siblings but are fortunate to have each other for company. It is important for orphan birds to have a buddy when in care as it reduces the chances of the birds becoming humanised.
‘These birds need to remain wild so they will be able to survive successfully when released.
‘The Pheasant Coucal breeds twice a year in close succession. They build
two nests, laying and incubating a second clutch while the first brood is still being fed
nearby. Their nest is made of twigs and green leaves pulled down to form a dome usually built in thick grass, reeds or small leafy bushes.
‘Adult Pheasant Coucals have long tails and are clumsy flyers spending most of their time on the ground feeding on small reptiles, frogs and insects.
‘They are commonly found in wetter coastal areas of northern and eastern Australia. They prefers dense understorey vegetation, particularly grasses, bracken and sedges, in open forests and woodlands, and around wetlands. When disturbed, coucals run rather than fly, or fly clumsily, plunging into cover.’
Contact WIRES for rescues, advice or enquiries. The 24-hour hotline is for all calls to WIRES in the Northern Rivers – 6628 1898.
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