Choosing native plants from nearby hot and dry areas and increasing genetic diversity in our plantings can help plant species, particularly trees, transition with the changing climate.

Birds and animals are more able to move to new habitat areas without our physical assistance – providing those habitat reserves exist for them. But they do need safe ways to move within; friendly, connected reserves forming corridors of native vegetation between different habitats.

Many animals do not like crossing open land as it exposes them to predators. Ideally, a corridor contains a large native tree every 25-40m, with a variety of native plant types and layers joining them. Cleared areas of more than 100m may be impossible for an arboreal (tree dwelling) animal like a glider to cross.

These corridors currently exist typically as creek lines and road reserves, crown reserves and on private land, but they are fewer than needed and already under constant pressure.

Does your property provide for the movement of birds and animals?

An easy check is to open an online map in satellite view, locate your property and see where your native vegetation links in the broader landscape.

You may have the perfect opportunity to provide a habitat corridor between bush reserves, or to connect up two or three areas of isolated habitat. No area is too small. Even an urban block can become a safe haven and habitat ‘stepping stone’. Every little bit helps!