UNITYWATER has joined forces with Barung Landcare to help restore critical habitats for two of Queensland’s most at-risk species – the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly and the Pink Underwing Moth at the Maleny Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Over 60 new Birdwing Butterfly Vine and Carronia Vine plants are being introduced into the rehabilitated Porters Wood Forest. These vines are essential for the survival of both species. The Birdwing Butterfly Vine is crucial to the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly, which is vulnerable under Queensland’s Nature Conservation Act 1992, while the Carronia Vine supports the endangered Pink Underwing Moth.
The project aims to strengthen local habitat connectivity, helping these species thrive. Barung Landcare Partnership Manager, Cameron Burton, said without certain native vines, some of Australia’s most iconic butterflies and moths could disappear forever.
“These new vines will create a corridor between known host plants of the moths and butterflies’ larvae,” Mr Burton said.
“This will enhance local habitat connectivity, and ensue these species can thrive by moving freely between critical habitats. “With Unitywater’s support to purchase the vines and plant them at their site in Maleny, we are hoping to see increased numbers of these endangered species in the Porters Wood Forest over the coming years as these new habitats grow.”