Seven male Plains-wanderers have taken their first steps into the protected grasslands of Barapa Barapa Country in Victoria’s Northern Plains, marking a hopeful moment for one of Australia’s most threatened birds. These small, ground-dwelling birds were bred at Werribee Open Range Zoo as part of a conservation program aimed at supporting the remaining wild population, which has declined by 85 per cent in recent decades. With fewer than 1,000 adult birds estimated to survive in the wild, each release is a critical milestone.
The Remarkable Nature of the Plains-wanderer
Zoos Victoria Threatened Bird Project Officer Dr Aaron Grinter explains that the Plains-wanderer is an extraordinary species, both in behaviour and biology. Unlike most birds where males boast eye-catching plumage, in this species the females are the more striking partner. Their bold black and white speckled collar and rufous bib stand in contrast to the more subdued tones of the males. Even more unusual is their breeding system, where females take the dominant role, forming what Dr Grinter describes as a “reverse harem,” mating with multiple males before leaving all parenting responsibilities to the devoted fathers.
These birds are genetically distinct grassland specialists, perfectly adapted to live among short, sparse native grasses with open spaces between tussocks. To help conservationists track the newly released males as they navigate this landscape, each has been fitted with a lightweight radio transmitter. Because the birds are so well camouflaged, this technology is essential for monitoring their progress and understanding how they adjust to life in the wild.
Selecting the Perfect Habitat
Identifying the right release sites required careful planning and a deep understanding of what Plains-wanderers need to thrive. Parks Victoria Project Officer Ben Hodgens notes that these birds are exceptionally particular about their habitat. The chosen locations on the Northern Plains offer the ideal grass structure—open, low-growing and native.
To maintain this delicate balance, the grasslands are managed through ecological grazing. Livestock are carefully introduced to reduce introduced vegetation without damaging native species. After grazing, the land is rested to allow habitat complexity to recover. This approach demonstrates how agricultural activity and conservation can work together to support biodiversity in the region.
A Landscape Under Threat
While this release is a positive step forward, the broader reality for Plains-wanderers remains challenging. Native grasslands are themselves listed as Critically Endangered, with more than 95 per cent lost since colonisation due to land clearing and development. With so little habitat remaining, protecting and restoring what is left is essential for the long-term survival of the species.
Cultural Significance and the Healing of Country
For the Barapa Barapa Traditional Owners, the return of the Plains-wanderer is deeply significant. Barapa leaders emphasise that the reappearance of these small, distinctive birds is a powerful symbol of healing Country. Their ancestors have cared for these lands for more than 60,000 years, and seeing the birds return reinforces the importance of ongoing restoration efforts. Healthy native grasslands not only support species like the Plains-wanderer but also maintain the cultural, ecological and spiritual integrity of the Country itself.
A Collaborative Path to Recovery
This release trial is supported by the Victorian Government through the Nature Fund and by generous anonymous donors to Zoos Victoria. It highlights what can be achieved when Traditional Owners, conservation organisations, government agencies and the community work together with a shared goal.
The success of this project will be assessed over time as conservationists track the movements and behaviour of the released males. If all goes well, these birds will settle into their new home, find wild females and, with luck, make a vital contribution to the species’ recovery.
Hope for the Future
The release of these seven Plains-wanderers represents more than a breeding opportunity—it symbolises resilience and the potential for regeneration. As they begin their journey across the grasslands, they carry with them the hopes of conservationists, Traditional Owners and supporters who are committed to ensuring that the Plains-wanderer remains part of Australia’s natural heritage.
Through collaboration, science and cultural connection, the stunning grasslands of Victoria’s north may once again become a thriving refuge for this unique and remarkable bird.
