Ormond Kinder Indigenous Butterfly Garden & Nesting Boxes Project

What are we Doing?

To improve OCK's engagement and knowledge of local flora and fauna, we plan to plant a butterfly garden and install nesting boxes. The garden would incorporate six different native plant species, including bush tucker and a small water puddler to encourage butterflies. Two possum nesting boxes would also be installed in separate trees to safeguard the animal life in our backyard.

The children have already participated in Backyard Biodiversity’ educational incursions, delivered by Wild Action, to improve their knowledge in biodiversity and sustainability.

Why?

The primary environmental outcome is the creation of habitat for insects and local fauna. The establishment of the garden using six different indigenous species will enhance the biodiversity values, attract insects, provide habitat for local species, and improve soil health. Plant species have been selected for suitability with local climate, soil, and attractivity to native butterflies. The inclusion of an in-ground puddler will provide a source of water for local fauna. Two nesting boxes will provide additional habitat for local possums in an inner suburban area that is losing tree cover to in-fill development. It will also increase the children's environmental awareness.

We have also been able to partner with local indigenous organisations to source the plants and other community organisations (Men's shed) for the animal nesting boxes.