Orange bird watcher takes to backyard amid social distancing restrictions

With 60 years of experience, the Environmentally Concerned Citizens of Orange secretary is enthusiastic about not only birds but also how to create a sustainable habitat for other walks of life.

"I predominately use native flora and have structured the plants and trees in my backyard to provide cover, nesting and food sources for the birds," he said.

"Landscaping plays a pivotal role in creating a safe space for not only birds but also insects and lizards. I also have a bird bath for the little birds to drink and clean themselves.

"But I don't have a bird feeder because I found it can be a target for cats who are a danger to the birds. If people are interested to get one they should research the types of feed appropriate for the birds and to position it in the garden away from other pests."

He has noticed various feathered friends that flock to his backyard including blue faced honeyeaters, wattle birds, eastern spinebills, superb fairy-wrens, striated thornbills, crimson rosellas, eastern rosellas, magpies, peewees, willy wag tails, white brown shrub wrens.

He also said modern landscaping design in urban developed areas does not accommodate the needs for the birds and other animals.

"The majority of the plants used in landscaping are not native and the design does not protect the majority of the little birds looking to nest and protect themselves," Mr King said.

"I haven't seen kookaburras, small wrens and finches in a while and I believe this is because of urban development across Orange and loss of habitat.

"Also currawong birds are a massive predator because they raid smaller ground nests and are attracted to ornamental apples and ivy.

Before social distancing regulations was enforced, Mr King used to venture to Lake Canobolas Reserve and Gosling Creek reservoir for a casual walk and to admire the birds.

The beauty of bird watching is that it is free and can be done anywhere at anytime and he also mentioned his family takes part in the recreational sport.

"My grandchildren have joined me from time to time in bird watching and I think it's because its becoming more of a mainstream and popular with young people," Mr King said.

Each year, he takes part in the annual Aussie Backyard Bird Count and records all the birds he can see over 20 minutes for a week.

The data collected will help BirdLife Australia understand more about the birds that live where people live.

"I've been taking part in the bird count for nearly six years, logging the different types of birds I can see and doing my part to advocate for the environment," Mr King said.