Malleefowl are members of the megapodiidae family along with other Australian “mound builders” such as the Orange-footed Scrubfowl and the Australian Brush-turkey. These birds are known for their nesting behaviour that includes the construction of large mounds of vegetation and dirt (see photo below) in which the female places its eggs.

In thick, remnant vegetation in the Murchsion, Gascoyne and Goldfields it is not uncommon to come across a raised circle of dirt that was once a Malleefowl mound. Due to clearing associated with agriculture, the areas where this species was once common have been reduced to small, often disconnected patches of habitat (fragmentation). To determine if this species is in the area a survey is undertaken to find active Malleefowl mounds. This includes identifying appropriate habitat from aerial photography then walking transects through these areas on foot. Mounds discovered are measured (width, depth, height and crater width, depth and height) and rated to determine how recently the mound has been used. Environmental consultants also look for Malleefowl tracks that can be positively identified by someone with the appropriate experience (see photo below).

For more information visit the Mallefowl Preservation Group website.

Mallefowl are listed as Vulnerable under the Federal EPBC Act and Schedule 1 under the West Australian Wildlife Conservation Act.

Posted in Uncategorized