NEWSLETTER November 2015

Transcription

1 NEWSLETTER November 2015 Welcome to our latest newsletter. Much has been happening over the time since our last Newsletter, including many things of direct relevance to finch and softbill enthusiasts. We hope the items in this newsletter are of interest. Items include: A report on the 2015 AGM with some changes in your Office Bearers and Committee Advise of some exciting new members joining NFSA Detailed outcomes of the 2014 National Finch Census An Update on progress with the Save the Gouldian Fund An update on the situation in Victoria where exotic birds can no longer be sold at public bird sales Progress in Queensland with the new Biosecurity legislation and its implications for aviculturists Progress with the new avicultural licensing legislation in NSW A report on the recent Convention at Healesville in Victoria Foreshadowing the next Finch Convention - Finches 17 and we get a roundup of news from all our State representatives The National Finch and Softbill Association provides a national voice and representation for finch and softbill enthusiasts across Australia. All the major finch speciality clubs and societies are affiliated as are many more general avicultural groups, and a number of individuals. We don t produce magazines, run regular meetings or operate bird sales. Our role is to be a discussion forum and sounding board for nationally relevant issues which challenge the future of aviculture and to work with our members to encourage a range of initiatives which should bring enduring benefits. To maximise our value it is critical that all NFSA contact people provide two way communication between NFSA and members of their clubs and societies. It is also critical that any finch and softbill breeder is able to raise issues with NFSA and that we can respond. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 1

2 REPORT ON THE 2015 AGM Our 2015 AGM was held on September 4 via Teleconference which all member clubs and individual members were advised of. Unfortunately very few members dialled in, but we had a quorum and proceeded. As a result the following NFSA office bearers were elected for : President Bob Barnes (NSW) christineandrobert@hotmail.com Vice President Gary Fitt (Qld) - gary.fitt@bigpond.com Treasurer Keith Gargett (Qld) - keithwpg@optusnet.com.au Secretary Richard Chilton (SA) - amalurus@adam.com.au Qld Rep Keith Gargett - keithwpg@optusnet.com.au Vic Rep David Pace - Pace.david.j@edumail.vic.gov.au NSW Rep Steve Porter - sjp981@uowmail.edu.au WA Rep (interim) Brian McQuire - bmcguire@westnet.com.au Tas Rep Denis Daniels (acting) - danielsdennis0@gmail.com SA Rep Gary Fitzpatrick - kooroomwaters@hotmail.com ACT Rep Matthew McCabe - mccabe_07@hotmail.com Minutes of the 2015 AGM are circulated with this newsletter and show the main items discussed. In particular At the AGM my President s Report covered NFSA activities for the last year and some new, largely State based developments of significance for aviculture. Key items in my report were our involvement in: 1. dealing with the current ban on sale of exotic birds at public bird sales in Victoria. NFSA has made a submission to the Victorian government and offered to support the Victorian Avicultural Council. 2. Liaising with QCBS and the Qld Government to find a solution to the way the new Biosecurity legislation in Queensland potentially impacts on bird keepers. 3. Supporting the Finch Society of Australia, ABA and CCBFA in their negotiations with the NSW Government over proposed new licensing laws in NSW I also acknowledged the efforts of the past NFSA Committee members in keeping us viable and active. Some details are given below about new Committee members. I trust you find this newsletter interesting and valuable. If you have any item of news or concern about avicultural issues, please contact me or any member of the Committee. Gary Fitt Immediate past President, NFSA NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 2

3 NEW MEMBERS AND NEW COMMITTEE MEMBERS In the last month or so NFSA has been very pleased to receive four new bird club members. These are: Finch Society of Australia (Sydney) Ballarat Branch, Avicultural Society of Australia Geelong Branch, Avicultural Society of Australia Queensland Council of Bird Societies It is great to have all these new members on board, particularly as they ensure we have appropriate representation and engagement in Victoria, have the head office branch of FSA to join the three other branches (Hawkesbury, Hunter, Wollongong), and have another State representative body in QCBS, similar to the membership of UBSSA from South Australia. In both cases the affiliation of the State body with NFSA give the opportunity for engagement of a large number of small generalist avicultural clubs in those states. We also have a new Committee member with Steve Cooper now the NSW Representative. Steve is President of the Wollongong Finch Club (FSA) and provided the following brief synopsis about himself I have been keeping bids since age 10, and started with two budgies in small cage. At age 15 I progressed to larger Australian parrots and owned my first aviary until the age of 22 at which point I had a 5 year break owing to university and work commitments. In 2012 I built aviaries in my new home and this time decided to get involved with finches. By this stage I was a member of the Wollongong Finch Club and I decided to focus on Australian species. I started with Gouldians and Painteds and eventually progressed to blue Gouldians (but not for long). Since 2014, my collection has consisted of predominantly foreign birds, in particular cup nesters - Red and yellow Siskins, Goldfinches and Canaries. I am also working on a few rarer foreign species with the goal of making them more available and to improve the quality of some of the birds - Oriental Greenfinch, Pied Goldfinches, Lutino and Agate Greenfinches, Lineated Parrots, Red Zebras. I don't think I could own a collection without songbirds after having them for the last few years. I enjoy the breeding challenges they present plus the pleasant song I get to hear every morning. I am looking forward to learning more about softbills in the future and supporting our hobby. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 3

4 UPDATE ON POSSIBILITIES FOR BIRD IMPORTS Back in June we advised all NFSA members about a meeting on May 26 with Federal Agriculture Minister, Barnaby Joyce to discuss the issue of bird imports into Australia. The meeting involved Daniel Gowland, Gary Fitt (President, NFSA), Craig Jeffreys (President, ABA) and Graham Phipps (Avicultural Society of NSW). The main focus was an Import Risk Analysis (IRA) for Psittacines (Parrots) being done by the DoA. This commenced some 13 years ago and has stopped and started several times since then. The simple request was that the IRA be completed as soon as possible as one step towards legal import of parrots, particularly those of conservation concern. From an NFSA point of view this would be a step forward in possible finch imports as well. The main argument presented to DoA was that the ban on legal imports (and other avicultural species) provides encouragement for illegal imports of birds which could inadvertently bring in diseases which threaten Australia s poultry industry. The main message for Mr Joyce was that allowing controlled legal imports would help circumvent the risk posed by illegal imports. The outcome of the meeting was very positive with a commitment given by the Minister that the Psittacine IRA would be the next one completed after two that were currently being finalized by his Department. We can now advise that in late October we learned that the IRA is underway. This is great news that the commitment given in May has been kept, although it will now take 12 months to complete the IRA. The Department will make a formal announcement once it is complete. ASA CONFERENCE AT HEALESVILLE 2015 Reported by Glen Holland and David Pace In early September the Avicultural Society of Australia (ASA) joined with the famed Healesville Sanctuary east of Melbourne, to hold an Avicultural Conference that was attended by about seventy five aviculturists. This conference focussed on some amazing scientific work and continuous improvement on techniques applied in the field conservation programs and in captivity. It highlighted private and zoological avicultural achievements and the progress of coordinated captive breeding programs that endeavour to ensure that species are not lost. Lectures included international experts, private breeders, Zoological staff and ornithologists and also gave the participants the unique opportunity to enjoy the Sanctuary through behind the scenes tours, free flight bird shows and an in-depth view into the captive breeding programs for the Orange-bellied Parrot and the Helmeted Honeyeater. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 4

5 techniques. Speakers covered a wide range of species including pheasants, softbills, finches, lorikeets and parrots. International speakers included Rick Jordan who gave two talks on psittacines and David Vishnia who spoke on research into incubation parameters and his new look incubators perfected to simulate the results of this research. A highlight of the conference was the number of talks focussed on constant improvement and learning that leads to ever improving results. This applied to diets, breeding and incubation and even training honeyeaters to avoid predators using falconry Prior to the conference, a bus trip was organised to transport speakers and delegates to view three very different collections. These consisted of a wide range of species, which included native and exotic parrots, cockatoos and finches, as well as a wonderful selection of poultry. It was pleasing to view three collections and spend a great deal of time at each location, speaking with the owners and getting to know other delegates. A personal highlight was the viewing of a flock of wild king parrots in the backyard of well know aviculturist, Todd Osbourne, and the scenic drive along the Black Spur which was lined with amazing tree ferns. As with any conference, despite the best laid plans the odd thing goes wrong. On the second afternoon of the conference the group went to the famous Healesville free flight bird show. Low and behold the first bird to appear, a black kite, did not stay to perform but disappeared over the horizon which caused the show to be cancelled. Next day we squeezed in another opportunity to view the show and it worked like clockwork, to the staff s relief and to the delight of the audience. PS the kite was found about six weeks later! Overall the conference was a great success and was thoroughly enjoyed by all. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 5

6 In the last 6 months a full article on the outcomes of the last Finch and Softbill census has been provided to all NFSA clubs for publication in their magazines and distribution to members. It has also appeared in several professional avicultural publications. Here we provide a precis of the article (Full results of the Census are available on the NFSA website ). Introduction NFSA is concerned about the declining status of many of the finch species we currently have in aviculture and so we commenced a national census back in 2008, with a second in 2010 and the third completed in The main aims of the census is to: provide guiding data on captive populations of finches and softbills in Australian aviaries establish trends in populations over time identify species that would benefit from coordinated breeding programs The census period ran from August 2013 to January 2014 and was widely advertised through all NFSA member clubs, in avicultural magazines and on websites. It utilised, for the first time, the Survey Monkey software which provided a great way to collect the data. Once again the census was totally anonymous. For the 2014 census we had 410 respondents, an improvement but still only a fraction of the finch keepers out there. Results Outcomes of the 2014 National Finch CENSUS Gary Fitt and David Pace Overall the 410 respondents held 23,754 native finches, 17,262 exotic finches and 603 softbills of many types a massive 41,619 birds in total (Figure 1). These numbers covered 56 different exotic species, 34 species, sub-species and mutation categories of native finches and an amazing 50 or so species of softbills among the 603 birds. The 410 respondents came from all over Australia (Figure 2). NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 6

7 Table 1 summarises the main features of the NFSA censuses to date. It is interesting to note that for the exotic finches the numbers kept by the average respondent in the 2008 census (~76 birds) was much higher than in the 2010 (43 birds) and this census (42 birds). Overall the results for 2010 and 2014, which were much more comprehensive in that we now capture information on exotics, Australian natives and softbills, indicate that the average finch breeder keeps about birds. Table 1. Major features of the NFSA censuses to date Census No. of respondents Exotic finches Australian finches Total softbills Total Nspecies Total Nspecies* * includes subspecies and mutations Exotic Finch Species. Of the 67 exotic species on the census form there were 9 species with no birds recorded at all. These were: House Finch, European Linnet, Peales Parrotfinch, Common Redpoll, European Serin, Yellow-rumped Siskin, Shama Thrush, Grey Singer, Dybowski's Twinspot and Violet-eared waxbill. Of the remaining species, Table 2 shows the commonest and the rarest species. Obviously the other species lie between the common and rare species. Several species are largely unchanged. However, it is good to see an increased % of people and numbers for Cut-throats, Golden Song sparrows, Grenadier Weavers and Pintailed whydahs. In particular the Napoleon Weaver numbers have lifted considerably from 41 to 169 birds and 8.45% of respondents now hold them. Figure 4 a and b shows information for some species which have increased since 2008, and some species which unfortunately have declined further. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 7

8 Table 2. Summary results for exotic finch species designated as Common or Rare in the 2014 census. Species Red-faced parrotfinch Cordon bleu Waxbill Common Species Total number recorded % of respondents with this species Species Rare Species Total number recorded % of respondents with this species European Siskin African Fire Orangebreasted waxbill St. Helena waxbill Tri-coloured parrotfinch Red-crested cardinal Yellow-rumped Serin Red-headed fody Red-shouldered whydah Silver-eared mesia Silverbill Saffron Cuban Peters Twinspot Green singer Green Strawberry Red Strawberry Java Sparrow Purple grenadier waxbill Black-rumped waxbill Bengalese Chaffinch Red hooded Siskin Pekin Robin Jacarini Oriental Greenfinch Cut-throat Red Headed Finch Himalayan Greenfinch NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 8

9 Figure 4a. Total numbers for some increasing species (number above each column is no. of respondents with this species) Napoleon Weaver Yellow winged Pytilia Silverbill Figure 4b. Total numbers for some declining species (number above each column is no. of respondents with this species) Aberdeen Oriental greenfinch Saffron NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 9

10 Native Finch Species Among the natives we recorded data for every species except the Beautiful Firetail which showed as zero. Again this result is misleading because we know that there are several of this species in aviculture, with at least 46 held in Victoria alone (based on 2013 Victorian figures). Native finches were very heavily dominated by the Gouldian Finch, where a total of 7606 were recorded (5354 normals, 2252 mutations) making up over 32% of all the native finches in the census. However Gouldian numbers were down markedly from 2010 when the total number was and they made up 48% of all native finches. Apart from the red-eared firetail and beautiful firetail, both of which require specialised conditions and handling, all the native species were recorded in reasonable numbers, although none came close to the Gouldian. Softbills We recorded an amazing diversity of softbills held by finch keepers around 50 species, but only small numbers for some of them. Softbills included 6 species of wrens, various fruit pigeons and seed eating doves, six honeyeaters, 3 chats and several others. So what does it all mean and what can we do? Clearly there are many species that are rare. In fact almost half the 65 exotic species appear threatened. The gene pool of many species is almost certainly very depleted and with small numbers of birds held by just a handful of people we really need some concerted action. There would seem to be two options: 1. establish and support cooperative breeding groups to focus on rare species. This would involve supporting those who hold rare species to interact, share or swap birds and knowledge in an effort to recover these species. Many clubs around the country have actively established breeding programs for particular species: Hunter Valley Finch Club Diamond Firetail Mildura Avicultural Society, Victoria - Crimson finch Barossa Bird Club SA Pictorella, Red Browed finch and the Long-tail finch WA Finch Society Red-faced Parrot Finch, Yellowrumped Munia, Pictorella Queensland Finch Society Qld Javan Munia, Yellow Hooded Siskin, Rufous backed manikin, Blackthroated finch (white rumped form). or 2. seek approval for legal import of small numbers of vulnerable species to introduce new genetic lines which could be progressively infused into existing populations and so lift their viability Can either of these approaches work? We hope so. Acknowledgments We are grateful to all member clubs of NFSA for supporting the census and particularly to the 410 anonymous, but committed, finch breeders who responded. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 10

11 An Update on Activities of the Save the Gouldian Fund Mike Fidler, NSW Despite some current disruptions, our research activities continue through three Universities with whom we were collaborating. Firstly, at Charles Darwin University we have a Phd student who is continuing work on an aspect of the Gouldian nutrition project. We previously found that areas which are burnt more often than twice every three years are sometimes abandoned as breeding grounds by the Gouldian. The student, Anna, has taken seed samples from each of the breeding and abandoned areas and is having them analysed to see if there is a nutritional difference, which may explain why the Gouldians have abandoned some areas. She is also measuring if there is any nutritional difference between scorched and un-scorched seed and also in palatability. Meanwhile at Liverpool University in the UK, researchers are sequencing the full genome of the Gouldian finch. They expect to finish within the next two years. The genome sequence is based on blood and feather samples taken by researchers at Macquarie University, Sydney who are collaborating on the exercise. The STGF supplies all the birds. Macquarie University is also hosting and providing facilities for a Phd student from the University of Houston, Texas, USA, who is also doing genetic work with all the birds supplied by STGF. Macquarie University also have their own parallel programme with Longtails and Zebras which has a lot of synergy with our Gouldian research. As well as the research, the STGF has a consultancy agreement with the Ord Irrigation Expansion Corporation and four mines in that area to advise on their environmental practices in relation to Gouldian finch breeding habitat and to liaise with the Federal Environmental authorities to ensure the developers and companies are in compliance with their environmental requirements. Our policy in all cases is to not try and stop economic development, but to ensure that development is achieved in harmony with nature. So for example, if a mine removes a water hole, then they have to replace it, in a suitable location, with a maintained artificial one. If they remove a hole bearing tree then they have to put up replacement artificial nest sites. The Ord Irrigation Area expansion was established with adequate wildlife corridors criss-crossing the area, with foraging areas and nesting sites preserved and even a substantial artificial wet land. Much of this meant that the developers had to sacrifice good farming land but with great biodiversity outcomes, particularly for the Gouldian population in the area. As you may be aware, we have been involved in some ground breaking research into finch nutrition. However, the current government has cut research funds, as a result of which the university to which Sarah Pryke was attached were proposing to limit Gouldian research to genetic work only. This stricture meant we would have to abandon some of the work we were finding the most interesting, included the research on finch nutrition. It NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 11

12 was this nutrition work we were particularly reluctant to abandon, so the decision was made to raise funds by forming a company to market the three supplements which some years ago we had developed for our own use. They were formulated at a time the scientists were concerned that experiments they conducted with captive birds could be skewed if they were fed a nutritionally different diet to their wild counterparts. We took crop samples from a large sampling of Gouldian nestlings, had it analysed and then produced an artificial diet which was nutritionally as close as possible to what nestlings were being fed. The information base was further expanded by analysis of various food forms and by taking crop samples from Longtailed finches and Crimson finches. As a result of our broader research on nesting dynamics of Gouldians, we now know exactly why the Gouldian is declining. Unfortunately eighty percent of the Kimberley is burnt every year, often during the late dry season and causing considerable damage to vegetation. While fire is a natural component of this environment this level of burning is clearly excessive. Our experiments show it takes nine years for a sapling Snappy Gum (the tree where Gouldians normally nest) to become fire resistant; so the constant wildfires mean there are few new trees surviving to grow. It takes approximately one hundred years for a tree to create nesting holes, but sadly, once a tree develops holes, it becomes more susceptible to being burnt down by the wild fires. So this means that every year, there are fewer hole bearing trees at the one end of the lifecycle and no new trees growing to replace them at the other. This of course has created a severe shortage of nesting holes, which in turn has instigated a lot of competition and increased predation levels as the same number of predators search for a smaller number of nesting holes. The STGF solution to this problem was to develop an artificial nest site, basically a hollow log with a nest box on the end. This has been hugely successful with increases in the Gouldian population of up to nearly 400%. We have also successfully expanded the Gouldians breeding range by installing nest sites into areas they used to breed in many years ago. We found that in most cases the Gouldians found and utilised these boxes within two years of them being installed. We now have over 3,500 of these nest boxes installed, but that in itself creates a problem. We attended most of the local fire planning committees and sadly came to the conclusion there was no prospect of the wild fires being controlled in the measurable future. This means the number of nesting trees will continue to diminish, so even if by some miracle the annual wild fires were stopped immediately, it would still take one hundred years for the surviving saplings to start producing nesting holes. This means the STGF nest box scheme has to continue for maybe 150 years if the Gouldian is to survive. So every year, for 150 years the nest boxes will have to be maintained. Organisations come and go, staff and leaders change, priorities change, finances fluctuate, so we decided that no one body or organisation should be left with this NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 12

13 responsibility. We have now appointed four committed local people who have accepted the responsibility of maintaining the nest boxes. Every year they will have to replace or repair any which have been burnt or damaged and every year clean out about a third of the ones they are looking after. The main commitment they make is that when they are no longer in a position to fulfil their function, they will pass the responsibilities onto someone else as committed and reliable as they are. In this way, we trust that each generation will hand on to the next and ensures the Gouldian does not become extinct. So I am pleased to provide this update on STGF activities and once again thank all members of NFSA clubs for your continued support. Without our donors funding, the whole exercise will grind to a halt and the Gouldian would become extinct. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 13

14 News from Queensland Gary Fitt and Keith Gargett, Brisbane New Biosecurity Legislation in Queensland Following multiple submissions to the Qld DAF (Dept of Agriculture and Fisheries) and working in conjunction with QCBS and QFS, the NFSA has helped achieve a considerable improvement in how bird keepers are impacted by the new Queensland Biosecurity Act. The government has set up a consultative committee known as the Aviary Birds Biosecurity Reference Group. The group comprises NFSA (represented by Gary Fitt), QCBS (Qld Council of Bird Societies), QFS, FSA, Aussie Finch Forum, Australian Veterinary Association, plus three avian vets. QCBS provides representation for the interests of a broad range of bird keepers. The Reference Group has now met three times and one of the main achievements has been recognition by QDAF that aviary birds do not constitute a significant biosecurity risk to agriculture - poultry enterprises in particular. Indeed aviary birds are more likely to be impacted by biosecurity threats (largely disease) rather than be a source. The avian vets were very supportive of birdkeepers in arguing this position. It now appears possible that all aviary birds (which are fully contained) may be excluded from the new legislation. Birds which may be free to the environment (pigeons, waterbirds) will still be included in the legislation. There are however some areas of ongoing concern. We all agreed with QDAF that public bird sales, where birds from multiple venders come together and buyers may take home birds from multiple vendors, constitute a risk of transmission of disease. QDAF requires that there are traceability mechanisms to follow the movements of birds should there be a major disease outbreak. Consequently it is likely that all clubs running bird sales will be required to collect additional information on vendors and buyers at sales. In addition we have agreed to develop and implement an Aviary Birds Biosecurity Code of Practice for Disease Prevention and Traceability in Queensland which will complement the existing Code of Practice for Aviculture and provide guidance for birdkeepers on ways to protect the health of their birds. A draft has been developed and will be used for consultation with bird club members before finalisation. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 14

15 Queensland Council of Bird Societies joins NFSA In a great decision the QCBS has affiliated with NFSA. QFS is of course a founding member of NFSA and is the largest member of QCBS. However, QCBS includes among its membership a large number of smaller avicultural societies across Queensland, many of which have a substantial As a result of QCBS affiliating with NFSA all those clubs will get information form NFSA and we can be more aware of developing issues across Queensland and so be better able to respond. This development is similar to the situation in South Australia where both Avicultural Society of South Australia and United Bird Societies of South Australia (UBSSA) are both members of NFSA. As a result all the affiliated clubs of UBSSA are aware of NFSA activities. Birdkeeper fined for trapping finches The article at right appeared in a Townsville newspaper on September 4, 2015 As we all know trapping of wild finches is illegal but unfortunately it does go on, particularly with some of the more common species, such as double-barred finches, red browed waxbills and chestnut breasted munias. We have all seen wild caught finches offered at bird sales and very rarely is anything done about it. One of the NFSA aims is to encourage all birdkeepers to adopt the highest possible standards in keeping and breeding birds as a means of improving the public perception of aviculture. We strongly oppose illegal activities such as trapping which certainly do not enhance public views of our hobby. It is thus pleasing to see that police prosecutions can be carried through for trapping and that substantial fines can be imposed for unlawfully obtaining protected birds. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 15

16 QFS Finch Conservation Programs QFS is continuing its conservation breeding programs on Javan munias, Rufuous backed manikins and Black Hooded Yellow Siskin. We are having considerable success with Javan Munias and Black Hooded Yellow Siskins, but Rufous Backed Manikins are in dire straits. We have been unsuccessful in obtaining any young stock and none have been bred from the small number of birds we have. Junior Support programs QFS has a number of initiatives to support young bird keepers. Over the last 12 months we have provided free memberships to about 8 junior finch keepers and we are developing details for a substantial aviary program to help new finch keepers get established. Our Juniors Fund continues to grow through numerous donations from members, often in conjunction with renewal of their membership. Finches 17 is coming The next International Finch Convention is coming up on July 7-9, 2017 in Brisbane. This convention will occur at the same venue as last time Women s College, University of Queensland with its brilliant facilities and accommodation. We are planning an event which will be bigger and better than ever, so mark the date in your calendars. The Convention will feature a mix of international and local speakers with features from juniors and much more. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 16

17 News from Victoria David Pace, Torquay Victorian representation on NFSA Geelong and Ballarat affiliate! After much lobbying of the Victorian Avicultural Council (VAC), Mornington Peninsula Avicultural Society (MPAS) and the Avicultural Society of Australia (ASA) to formalise Victorian membership of NFSA, it is pleasing to see that both Ballarat and Geelong Branches of the ASA have affiliated independently with the NFSA. Let s hope this is the beginning of a process in which all Branches of the ASA affiliate with the NFSA. It is critical that Victoria is formally engaged with NFSA and this outcome will only strengthen finch and softbill aviculture at a time when unity is vital due to the issue with bird sales in Victoria. Victorian Bird Sales The situation so far based on the minutes of the Victorian Aviculture Council (VAC) No doubt many have heard of the Victorian bird sale situation. In a nutshell, Victoria aviculturists have unknowingly been selling foreign and licenced native birds illegally at public bird sales for the last 20 years, in that, legislation indicates that foreign species can only be sold from pet shops and private breeders residence. The situation with licenced native species is similar, however an amnesty was granted in 2015, allowing Victorian bird sales to continue, providing each seller displayed their amnesty. The situation in Victoria is complex as two different government departments handle native species (Fauna and Flora) and foreign species (Domestic Animal Department) Dr Graham Mitchell, a long time aviculturist and a consultant that has worked with the Victorian government, scheduled a meeting with Don Hugh from the Wildlife Department. President of the VAC, David Renshaw, Vice President Lou Dall'Est and David Ketchion discussed the possibility of reinstating the amnesty to sell native species in a public venue for the 2016 bird sales as was done in Early indications suggest this will happen. A petition seeking to resolve the current situation and allow both native and foreign birds to be sold at public sale has attracted well over 2,000 signatures and will be used to support further engagement with government. The VAC was advised to change the name from Bird Sales to Bird Expos, and to promote more actively the conservation side of Aviculture. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 17

18 New code of Practice for Bird Sales The VAC was pleased with the feedback that he received from most Victorian clubs. The aim is to ensure birds displayed have more room and are well displayed in light of criticism from some sectors of the community. The new Code of Practice worked well during the 2015 sales. Bird Sales 2016 Native Birds: David Ketchion, Lou Dall est and David Renshaw met with Mr Don Hough, Director Regulation and Approvals DELWP and Jennifer Cane, Manager Policy DELWP to discuss obtaining an amnesty to sell native birds at bird sales in They were extremely helpful and offered a lot of advice on the right approach in dealing with Government Departments. Don recommended that the VAC write to the Secretary of DELWP requesting the amnesty and explaining the role of the VAC and the affiliated clubs, the benefits to the community from funds raised at bird sales and the role of these clubs in working with endangered species. David Renshaw completed the letter and it has been sent to the Secretary. Bird Sales Exotic Birds: David Ketchion, Lou Dall Est are meeting with the Manager of the Domestic Animal Department on Monday 2 nd November to discuss all issues pertaining to the Sale of nonnative birds at our Bird Sales. In addition a letter has been drafted and will also be sent to the Minister Jalla Pulford along with the petitions from the VAC. Wildlife Possession & Trade advisory committee (WPTAC) Update From David Renshaw (President VAC): I have finally had a response to my letter that I sent back in February this year to Stuart McConnell a director in DELWP. I advised Stuart for the need to continue WPTAC as a group and also the need to be able to put in recommendations to amend Wildlife regulations and the movement of birds off licence, put on licence or change birds from cat A to B etc. This can only be done every ten years and I advised that we need to have the flexibility to make these changes on a regular basis i.e. every three or four years. Stuart is forwarding me some contact names within the department to contact but it is quite clear it has to be driven by the VAC or a newly formed WPTAC. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 18

19 News from South Australia Gary Fitzpatrick and Richard Chilton Update on the Review of the South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Regulations For a considerable time now a number of organisations representing bird keepers and licensed fauna dealers in South Australia have submitted written submissions and attended numerous meetings with the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) regarding recommended changes to the Wildlife Regulations and in particular the Schedules. A number of changes have been requested to the Schedules including that all bird species not indigenous to South Australia and listed as basic be exempt from permit. In addition a number of species currently listed as specialist species have been requested to be rescheduled as basic. DEWNR reviewed the recommendations put forward and invited those organisations representing bird keepers and licensed dealers to a workshop on Wednesday 21st October to review bird species listed in the schedules under the Wildlife Regulation. The purpose was to consider the range of views about which species should be listed under which schedules and reach a consensus, where possible. Unfortunately, as soon as the proposed schedules were distributed on the Friday prior to the meeting it was obvious that little heed had been paid to our numerous submissions. This was despite numerous assurances that aviculture s input would be a major part of the process. Not only were the recommended license categories suggest in the submissions largely ignored, but the actual schedule list was: 1. Incomplete (species missing); 2. Species listed under wrong headings; 3. Multiple versions sent out over the days prior to the meeting which contradicted each other and contained duplications and other errors. However, once we got down to reviewing each individual species things moved smoothly. The DEWNR personnel present undertook to seriously consider our recommendations and to come back with a revised list shortly. All stake-holders were extremely disappointed and have expressed little faith in the process. We wait with baited breath for a suitable outcome. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 19

20 Hawkesbury Finch Club News from NSW Bob Barnes, Sydney Penrith City Council has drafted a new policy to specify various requirements for animal keeping in the Penrith local government area. The FSA wrote to council with various recommendations and was subsequently invited to attend a meeting with council officers. FSA President Sam Davis represented both the FSA and CCBFA. Neville Simmons and Ron James represented Hawkesbury Finch Club. Representatives from the Finch Exhibitors Society, ZFSA and Budgerigar Society NSW also attended. A number of edits to the draft were discussed together with the addition of clauses directing potential bird keepers to local clubs and to the CCBFA for assistance should issues arise. We expect a revised draft policy shortly. Below is suggested wording to be used by clubs in the area:. 1. Wording for inclusion in the proposed policy from CCBFA for affiliated clubs: Residents are encouraged to keep birds in a manner and within enclosures best suited to the selected species. Avicultural societies and clubs are the recommended source for specialist advice. Council encourages all bird keepers to join an Avicultural club relevant to the species of interest. Specialist clubs operating specifically within the Penrith Council area include: Hawkesbury Finch Club - Branch of the Finch Society of Australia Inc. (Sec: Ron James The Budgerigar Society of NSW - Penrith Valley Branch (Sec: Anna Shaw artbyanna@bigpond.com) Nepean District Caged Bird Club (Sec: Howard Sumner howchris@optusnet.com.au) The Canary and Cage Bird Federation of Australia Inc. is able to recommend suitable clubs for other species (Sec: Ron Robertson birdclubs@aapt.net.au). 2. Wording where compliance operations are beginning or being considered which may lead to orders. Paragraph for inclusion in initial letters to such persons indicating CCBFA as a possible source of assistance. The Canary and Cage Bird Federation of Australia Inc. (CCBFA) represents bird keepers nationally, including advice to individuals when issues arise. The CCBFA may be able to assist in the resolution of this matter (Sec: Ron Robertson birdclubs@aapt.net.au). NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 20

21 Native Birds in Aviculture: Licensing and Community Involvement Proposal for NSW from the Avicultural Community NSW Government is revising its legislation with regard to licensing requirements for bird keepers. The Finch Society of Australia Inc. lead by Sam Davis, together with Bob Barnes from NFSA and with input, support and approval from a broad range of avicultural organisations put together a major submission seeking to ensure a rational approach to licensing. The proposal (shown below) was endorsed and submitted in conjunction with the Canary and Caged Bird Federation of Australia (CCBFA) whose membership includes the majority of Avicultural clubs in NSW. Appendix 1 is a complete list of stakeholder organisations whose input and direct support was central to the compilation of this document. Appendix 2 summarises the facts gathered via written and oral input from these Avicultural stakeholders. 1. Framing a new system. We make the following assumptions based largely on A review of biodiversity legislation in NSW, Final Report (18/12/14) to frame and set the scope of our proposal. 1.1 Managing the risk of native animals being taken from the wild (or returned to the wild) is critical to any new scheme ultimately receiving support from Government. 1.2 The current licensing system is overly prescriptive and difficult to enforce. The result is ongoing poor compliance together with inadequate risk management. 1.3 Recommendation 27 and 28 are pertinent and will be implemented by Government Recommendation 27 Adopt a tiered and risk-based approach to the regulation of wildlife management in NSW to credibly regulate high-risk activities and reduce red tape for low-risk activities. The four tiers would be: exempt activities, code-based complying activities, assessable/licensed activities, and prohibited activities Recommendation 28 Improve the public s knowledge and understanding of wildlife conservation and management through community-oriented education programs about native plants and animals, the impacts of humanwildlife interactions, and the welfare needs of animals in captivity. 2. Proposal In light of the facts within Appendix 2 we propose the following is implemented via the NSW Biodiversity Act, subordinate regulations and subsequent departmental policies. Point 2.1 describes the species Schedules. Points 2.2 to 2.5 reflect the four tiers of Recommendation 27 (1.3.1), albeit with some modification. The concluding points aim to fulfil Recommendation 28 (1.3.2). They are of equal or greater importance in terms of acceptance and continuing long term support by the avicultural community. 2.1 There will be three Schedules. The NAKCC (2.7) has responsibility for maintenance of these schedules in consultation with Avicultural stakeholders. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 21

22 2.1.1 Schedule 0 lists species that can be freely traded without restriction or licence. Similar to the current exempt list with modification. These are highly domesticated species where there is no identifiable risk to wild populations Schedule 1 to include species with well-established captive populations whose management and welfare is well defined and easy to meet. There is negligible risk to wild populations. It is envisaged Schedule 1 would be somewhat similar to the current B1 species lists, although some modification will be required Schedule 2 would be somewhat similar to the current B2 list, with modification. These are species with specific husbandry requirements or that require extra protection of their wild population Schedules readily able to be amended via ministerial orders or similar mechanism to ensure they remain contemporary. 2.2 Exempt tier refers to pet ownership of native animals within Schedule 0 or Schedule 1 of the regulations. No licence or legislative compliance required Pet ownership is defined as those seeking animal companionship or those maintaining a limited collection of animals as a peripheral interest Schedule 1 species can only be obtained from complying or assessable licence holders Schedule 1 species can only be moved or sold to assessable licence holders Import or export between states is not permitted for Schedule 1 species except when moving residence interstate Entry point into native animal care. Natural progression to complying tier occurs as interest increases and/or due to ongoing Schedule 1 breeding success requiring expanded options to move excess animals. 2.3 Complying tier refers to hobbyists who are serious native animal keepers and breeders of species within Schedule 0, Schedule 1 or Schedule 2. A single low fee licence with no annual return is proposed for this tier Hobbyist is defined as those with a dedication to mastering the skills and increasing their knowledge of Aviculture Typical hobbyists have specific objectives they wish to achieve, such as breeding a new species, developing a specific trait, or improving management or welfare practices A major aim of complying licences is to provide a means of ongoing communication between hobbyists and the Department. The acquisition of licences should be desirable to licensees. Some practical ideas include: Licences are in the form of plastic cards, much like a credit card or driver s licence. The licence itself is a desirable object promoting the licensing scheme. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 22

23 Regular newsletters from NPWS. Discounted licence fees for seniors. Value added products provided as part of licensing. For example, NPWS receipt books for transactions, breeding registers paper or digital app. Discounts on various NPWS activities and park entry. Licence fees are used to fund or promote native animal captive conservation projects (refer 2.6) Schedule 1 species can be traded freely between complying licence holders Records of Schedule 2 species movements between complying licence holders is required to be kept and examined if so required Records of Schedule 2 species import or export between states is required to be kept and examined if so required An enforceable Avicultural code of practice to be developed and maintained in consultation with Avicultural stakeholders via representatives of the NAKCC (2.7) Compliance operations aim to educate with enforcement an option of last resort. 2.4 Assessable tier refers to commercial operators. A licence is required together with species level records held for Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 species transactions Commercial operators are defined as those whose purpose and intent is to make a financial profit. The definition of commercial is based on the same criterion as used by the ATO (Australian Taxation Office) It is envisaged the assessable tier would encompass fauna dealers, pet shops and large commercial breeding operations Assessable licence holders are able to purchase and sell native animals from Schedule 1 without restriction, however a record of verified seller name and address is required Schedule 2 species purchase or sale requires a record of complying licence number or assessable licence number Records of Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 species import or export between states is required Records of Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 species movements (2.4.3, 2.4.4, 2.4.5) can be examined as part of compliance operations if so required. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 23

24 2.5 Prohibited tier refers to activities that require a specific permit to be permitted activities. Many such activities would relate to use of animals in the wild. A nonexhaustive list of likely permits includes the following Wildlife rehabilitation organisations to treat sick or injured wildlife. An ongoing permit encompassing a wide range of species Scientific research requiring capture of wild animals. A permit with specific species, locations and other details Threatened species (or their analogues) captive breeding programs. A permit requiring a detailed proposal and ongoing captive management plan and studbook Take from the wild to establish new species or re-establish a species in captivity. A permit issued on the basis of a proposal including a viable captive management plan developed in conjunction with an Avicultural club or committee. 2.6 Avicultural clubs and individuals can access funding to develop native animal projects. Some areas that may attract funding include: Promoting native animal care and conservation to the wider community Captive breeding initiatives, including threatened species (2.5.3) and establishing species in captivity (2.5.4) Promoting and monitoring licence compliance at point of entry to major sales including issuing interim complying licences. 2.7 The existing Native Animal Keepers Consultative Committee (NAKCC) to be retained within new legislation with expanded terms of reference Enhancing educational, communication and promotional aspects of the NAKCC terms of reference, particularly in regard to consultation with avicultural stakeholders The NAKCC to have formal advisory responsibility for the code of practice associated with complying and assessable activities The NAKCC to provide expert advice with regard to assigning species to Schedule 0, Schedule 1 and Schedule The NAKCC to provide an appeals function when permits for prohibited activities are refused. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 24

25 Appendix 1. Avicultural Stakeholders The following stakeholder organisations provided input and direct support central to the compilation of this document. The Canary and Cage Bird Federation of Australia Inc. (CCBFA) National Finch and Softbill Association (NFSA) Associated Birdkeepers of Australia Inc. (ABA) The Avicultural Society of NSW Inc. The Finch Society of Australia Inc. Macarthur Aviary Bird Club Hawkesbury Finch Club Canberra Finch Club Hunter Valley Finch Club Inc. Wollongong Finch Club Inc. Softbill and Native Pigeon Society Manly Warringah Avicultural Society Avicultural Society Social Birdkeepers Inc. Appendix 2. Facts The following facts are a summary of relevant input from Avicultural stakeholders. A2.1 Many aviculturists keep and breed a diverse mix of both exotic and native species. In terms of management and record keeping practices the distinction between exotic and native is largely irrelevant. For example, a typical finch hobbyist may breed 10 exotic and 5 native species one year, then 5 exotic and 10 natives the next, yet the total adult pairs kept remains relatively stable. Total number of native birds is a poor measure of competence. A2.2 For each aviculturist the number of individuals of each species varies considerably throughout the year based on the natural breeding season for each species. Reproductive rates vary considerably, hence total number of birds is a poor measure of comparison. A2.3 Aviculturists possess detailed species specific skills and knowledge obtained through daily observation and management of individual birds. Avicultural clubs are keen to share their knowledge and skills to assist conservation and education efforts. We re a largely untapped (and economical) resource. A2.4 Team work is routinely used by dedicated Aviculturists to maintain pure wildtype captive populations, establish new mutations (colour morphs), re-establish species whose captive numbers and genetic diversity is low or to select for specific desired traits. The cooperation, record keeping and line breeding required is analogous to high cost threatened species captive breeding programmes. A2.5 There is a well organised and established range of Avicultural clubs throughout NSW and nationally. Encouragement, cooperation and communication with this NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 25

26 network of clubs and representative bodies is a prerequisite to any successful native bird licensing system. A2.6 The current system severely restricts the trade in licensed species through specialist bird shops. This is largely because potential purchasers overwhelmingly choose unlicensed exempt species in preference to species requiring a licence. This skews the market and encourages a black market. A2.7 The history and cooperation between private aviculture and the zoo community is extensive. These links are strong - zoos routinely source birds from private aviculturists, zoo personnel attend avicultural meetings and Aviculture clubs routinely attend zoo functions. A2.8 Current licensing is widely viewed as an impediment to keeping native birds. Most native bird species kept are well established in captivity with management competency established and demonstrated collectively for many decades. A2.9 Species on licence routinely experience fluctuations due to an artificially imposed cycle of supply and demand. Declining numbers lead to increasing demand and higher prices. Soon supply exceeds demand so prices decline and the circle repeats. A2.10 There is no identifiable incentive for native species with well-established captive bred populations to be taken from the wild. For less established species or those with dwindling genetic diversity a procedure to supplement from the wild would be beneficial. A2.11 Participation in aviculture is acknowledged to improve community health and wellbeing. Many aviculturists have physical and mental disabilities relieved by bird keeping. Aviculture clubs are social clubs that both indirectly and directly service the community. For example a number of clubs operate aviaries within nursing homes for the benefit of residents, other clubs present on native bird care, conservation and welfare at local schools. A2.12 Currently the movement of native birds between states is complex. Jurisdictions have conflicting regulations and licensing systems which impede the legitimate movement of birds and encourage non-compliance. A2.13 The large majority of Aviculturists are hobbyists. For the overwhelming majority, expenditure on their hobby far exceeds any income - there is no expectation of profit. A2.14 Unlike government departments, zoos and those in receipt of government grants, a typical avicultural hobbyist s only recourse for recouping costs is to charge a nominal fee for the sale of animals. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 26

27 News from Western Australia Brian McGuire, Perth No specific news from WA, but Brian McGuire reports that birdkeepers efforts to expand the range of finches allowed to be kept in WA continue to be thwarted by the WA Dept of Agriculture. Submissions to allow a range of species which are commonly kept in the eastern States are routinely approved by the WA Environment Department, but denied by the Agriculture Department and without any explanation for the decision. NFSA is now proposing to escalate this issue and we will help WA Finch Society to resubmit requests with additional backup information and seek to engage directly with the WA Government departments to seek at least a justification for decisions. News from the ACT Matthew McCabe, Canberra Matthew McCabe reports that the revitalised Canberra Finch Club is pottering along seeking to rebuild membership and ensure a range of activities for members. The 2 ACT bird clubs (Canberra Finch Club, Canberra Avicultural Society) had their sales in August and September. The Canberra Finch Club had a crackdown on selling conditions where they thought it necessary and are keen to get to adopt a consistent nationwide protocol for the Welfare of birds at sales. Matthew noted that the only issue was that the club failed to provide an exchange room for their sale which ended with a few birds escaping. This created a lot of stress for the birds and potential problems with public attitudes to sales. Escaped birds is not a good look. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 27

28 NFSA Member Clubs, Societies and Affiliates Association of NSW Country Bird Exhibitors (including their 11 member clubs) Avicultural Society of South Australia Avicultural Society of Tasmania Ballarat Branch, Avicultural Society of Australia Geelong Branch, Avicultural Society of Australia Canberra Finch Club Finch Society of Western Australia Finch Society of Australia (Sydney) Hawkesbury Finch Club (Finch Society of Australia) Hunter Finch Club (Finch Society of Australia) Wollongong Finch Club (Finch Society of Australia) Queensland Finch Society Taree & District Canary & Finch Society Kempsey-Macleay Bird Club United Bird Societies of South Australia Queensland Council of Bird Societies Plus we have Memoranda of Understanding with: CCBFA - Canary and Cagebird Federation of Australia ABA Associated Birdkeepers of Australia These MOUs outline how we will work cooperatively with these two bodies. NFSA Newsletter November 2015 Page 28