Wildlife box update for 201

Unley has a number of strategically placed Wildlife Boxes at various locations within the City to support the breeding and habitat survival of our local fauna. Members have previously been advised in relation to the usage of these boxes.
A total of 28 Artificial Hollows/Boxes were installed in June 2009. They were erected in Ridge and Heywood Parks, with a single box installed on Windsor St. Over the years Council has built up the number of boxes to where we now have close to 100 located across all part of the City.
Each year, as part of this environmental initiative, Council is provided with a report on the outcomes, success or otherwise of fauna use. As part of this monitoring process, each box is assessed for any changes that have taken place and to determine whether possible maintenance issues have arisen. This process is required to ensure that the wildlife value of the boxes are maintained and that public safety is observed.
Some interesting facts include:
·         2014 has been the most successful year to date for wildlife occupation and breeding.
·         Over 60% of the wildlife boxes were used for breeding or denning and 94% were used by a range of the target vertebrate species.
·         One new animal group was recorded during 2014 - microbats, with a single specimen observed in a bat box at Heywood Park.