An innovative tree carving technology pioneered by Transport for NSW has so far provided 1500 new homes for animals across the state.
The Habitat Hollows program is being used to offset habitat loss from road projects from the Snowy Mountains to Sydney and the North Coast.
The program creates sustainable homes within trees for hollow-dependent birds, bats, reptiles and mammals, replicating the cavities in trees that can take 70 to 120 years to form naturally.
The Hollowhog carving tool used in the program was designed and developed by a passionate environment officer within Transport for NSW and is being manufactured in Emu Plains.
Minister for Roads John Graham said:
“Trees that have hollows carved into them are not harmed and what’s better is that we have already passed 1500 new homes for animals in habitat that is nearby roads projects.
“New and upgraded roads do result in tree removal and some habitat loss, we don’t pretend otherwise, but this program has so far ensured new living spaces for many native Australian species that have been observed using the hollows. It is great to watch night vision of native animals using these hollows as their home.
“The carving tool is the first of its kind in the world and ensures we don’t have to wait up to seven decades or more for tree hollows to form naturally. Replicating hollows by carving into the tree without causing any damage is a game changer for supporting biodiversity.”
Penrith MP Karen McKeown said:
“Compared to traditional nest boxes that sit outside the tree, carved hollows are there forever, require less maintenance, and are used by a broad range of wildlife, including gliders, microbats, owls, possums and parrots. It’s fantastic that Hollowhog is manufacturing right in Emu Plains.
“My community has been affected by the removal of some large old trees during the upgrade of Mulgoa Road but it is heartening to know that this area is also a location where Habitat Hollows is making a difference.
Find out more about Transport for NSW’s Biodiversity Guidelineslaunch