In Holbrook, widespread dieback in paddock trees in the 1990s triggered concern among farmers about the loss of shade and shelter resources, and the resulting impact on the iconic farming landscape.

Investigations showed that gradual but significant decline of bird numbers and species diversity in the woodland landscape was one of the culprits.

Psyllid bugs that feed on leaves and produce lerps, and other insects – once kept in check by a range of small woodland birds – no longer had that predator pressure that could moderate the outbreaks when they were starting.

The result was death by a thousand cuts for many paddock trees who were no longer protected by their feathered friends. Fifteen years – and many successful Landcare revegetation projects later – some of the iconic woodland birds are finally coming back to the landscape.

Many new visitors are coming as well, fleeing dry and desperate times elsewhere.

There have even been sightings of the iconic Australian bustard in Holbrook over the last 12 months.

Many common birds are often overlooked in the services they provide to our farming systems with native birds helping with other bird management, insect management and removal of waste.

Research completed at Charles Sturt University by Dr Rebecca Peisley looked at apple orchards, vineyards and grazing land. It found that, in most cases, there was an average of 10-15 per cent yield increase in the systems attributable to services provided by birds.

Birdlife Australia runs the Aussie Backyard Bird Count during National Bird Week, as well as other data collection projects that are so important for understanding the state of birds in the landscape.

You can participate in the count yourself next week and help add to the collective knowledge gathered across the nation. For more information, visit www.aussiebirdcount.org.au 

Many local Landcare groups will also be running bird events.