Richmond Birdwing Butterfly
Photo © WLFL

A significant milestone was reached recently with the second release of the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly at Kin Kin Creek.  Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland (Wildlife Queensland) has written to the Hon Kate Jones, Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability commending her and the Bligh Government for investing the funds and resources in this project.

'Wildlife Queensland through its Richmond Birdwing Conservation Network (RBCN) is a proud partner with Department of Environment and Resource Management in the breeding program of this butterfly being carried out at David Fleays Wildlife Park and the DERM centre at Moggill' said Des Boyland, Wildlife Queensland. 'It is pleasing to see funds being directed to conserving species other than the iconic koala. However we cannot rest on our laurels. The project and funds must continue in order for the butterfly to re-colonise its original natural range'.

According to Dr Don Sands, recognised world authority and a key member of the RBCN, 'The Richmond Birdwing Butterfly was abundant in the Brisbane region about 100 years ago but through loss and or fragmentation of habitat, invasive plants and isolation the butterfly has retreated to isolated pockets throughout its natural range from Grafton in NSW to Maryborough in Queensland. The fragmented isolated small populations do not assist their genetic diversity and some colonies are resulting in inbreeding with disastrous results. This is why this program is so vital. It is a key plank in the conservation of this species'

Wildlife Queensland and its RBCN have no intention of relying solely on this breeding program as successful as it is.

The Wildlife Land Fund Limited (WLFL), founded, fostered and promoted by Wildlife Queensland, owns properties at Witta and Reesville, near Maleny. WLFL is currently negotiating with Conservation Volunteers, to carry out works on those properties with the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly as a strong focus.

Witta conservation to focus on Richmond Birdwing
Photo © WLFL

'The ink has yet to dry on formal documentation but the partnership is set in cement' said Des Boyland. 'Both WLFL and Conservation Volunteers share common objectives and both are reliant on volunteers, grants and donations. Another successful partnership is born that will only benefit the environment with meaningful and practical outcomes.'

Conservation Volunteers is also proposing to work with RBCN in two different locations in the Kenmore/Pullenvale region to re-establish appropriate habitat prior to the reintroduction of the butterfly. The continued involvement of DERM will be essential if a successful outcome is to be achieved.

For more information on Wildlife Queensland's activities, call us on +61 7 3221 0194 or send us an email.