Return of the Swifts – Swift Parrots Flock to Central Victoria

Swift Parrots Flock to Central Victoria

Each year, the critically endangered Swift Parrot makes an epic journey from Tasmania to the forests of central Victoria — and this winter, something extraordinary is happening: it appears that nearly the entire estimated population of just 750 birds has gathered on the outskirts of the Bendigo region. 🦜

A report on the ABC this week helped to get the word out: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-07-18/massive-flock-of-critically-endangered-swift-parrots-sighted/105535670

A vital part of their survival? The O’Keefe Rail Trail  — not just a scenic route, but a natural corridor linking key habitats between Wellsford Forest, Knowsley Forest, Longlea Forest, Campaspe River and One Eye Forest. This connected landscape provides essential feeding and resting sites for migratory species like the Swift Parrot.

Protecting and enhancing these natural corridors is critical for biodiversity, giving vulnerable species safe passage through an increasingly fragmented environment.

If you’re out walking or riding the trail, keep your eyes (and ears!) open — and share your sightings to help raise awareness of this incredible bird!

Photos: (Swift Parrot) Frank Wouters – commons.wikimedia.org and (O’Keefe Rail Trail) Margaret Joyce

#SwiftParrot #OKeefeRailTrail #BendigoWildlife #ProtectHabitat #NatureCorridors #ConservationInAction #RailTrailForNature #WellsfordForest #EndangeredSpecies #BirdwatchingAustralia