The Springs
Where we work / Northwest Slopes / The Springs
- Acquired:
- 2019
- Area:
- 350 ha
- Bioregion:
- New England Tableland
- Habitat:
- Box Gum Grassy Woodland, Howell Shrublands, Carex Sedgeland, a number of other vegetation communities Including sub-scale areas of Semi Evergreen Vine Thicket
- Threatened Ecological Communities:
- 3
- Threatened and Near-Threatened Species:
- 16
Reserve Overview
The Springs is a 350 hectare reserve on the NSW northwestern slopes. The reserve consists of rugged granite country with huge boulders, large exposed granite slopes, and very steep topography. It protects three endangered ecological communities: critically endangered Yellow Box – White Box – Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland; Carex Sedgelands; and Howell Shrublands. In addition, there are several very small areas of vegetation approaching the definition of nationally endangered Semi Evergreen Vine Thicket.
protecting WILDLIFE, sustaining life
Species and Habitats
A recent flora survey recorded 404 native vascular plants on the reserve, including several listed species and one that is only known from four other populations.
A recent fauna survey found 63 bird species, 24 native mammals, 21 reptiles and 8 frogs. Two listed species were recorded: the Border Thick-tailed Gecko and the Large-eared Pied Bat. Sadly, whereas the reserve once was part of a core breeding area for the critically endangered Regent Honeyeater, none were found in the most recent 2021 survey.
Conservation Highlights
We have recently been assessing The Springs and adjacent areas for their suitability for koala translocation. Koalas were previously found in the area, but none had been seen for 40 years. That was until mid-2023 when one was recorded on a camera trap in an adjacent area. Since then, several koalas have been found. We are now seeking to determine just how many koalas might be in the area around The Springs and to determine their disease status.
