As a regular 'requestee' for more detail on waterbird
sightings reported to the list I thought it of interest to
canvass listmembers views on the public and other
'official' databases I am aware of in Victoria.
Michael Norris mentioned to me that it is confusing to
hear of various bird databases kept by different groups
around the country. Some thoughts I have are as follows.
* It is vitally important that birdos forward sightings of
threatened birds (as listed in State government
publications) to the relevant recognised Statewide
database. In Victoria, this is the Atlas of Victorian
Wildlife (for all vertebrate records) and for waterbirds in
particular, the Wetlands Database. Note that transferral
of data whether it be hand written or in electronic form
can usually be arranged to save observers the task of
getting information onto the Victorian databases.
* Priority species - the Victorian Department of Natural
Resources and Environment has a list of 'priority bird'
(and other vertebrate) species, so not all records need to
be forwarded to these databases. Full lists will however
be accepted, especially if they are for a 1 minute grid or
for a specific site done on a regular basis.
* Authoritative databases - this may be a vexing question
for some (responses please!) but I feel that STATEWIDE
databases that are accessable to the public and record
current information as well as historic records are the
'best' place for bird data to reside.
* Accuracy of information - data is only of any use if it
can accurately match sightings with specific habitats at
specific dates. How many 'lists' have you seen that are
just that and no more? 'Good' databases will record
observations to 100m accuracy or better.
At the end of the day we must ask ourselves: Why are we
collecting observations on birds if it doesn't assist in
the conservation of our avifauna and their habitats?
As I have a 'vested' interest in the conservation of
wildlife I am keen to hear listmembers views on the above.
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Martin O'Brien
Scientific Officer - Flora and Fauna Guarantee
Flora and Fauna Statewide Program
Department of Natural Resources and Environment
4/250 Victoria Pde.,
East Melbourne 3002
Victoria AUSTRALIA
tel: + 61 3 9412 4567
fax: + 61 3 9412 4586
e-mail:
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