A rich diversity of species has been uncovered in local waterways, highlighting the success of Hornsby Shire Council's largest-ever citizen science and creek biodiversity research project. This groundbreaking initiative has allowed the community to play an active role in discovering and monitoring the health of local ecosystems, contributing valuable data and insights into the area's natural environment.
Funded by the NSW Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government, the 'Community, Creeks and Critters' citizen science project provided citizen scientists with cutting-edge environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling kits to collect water samples from local waterways once they had undergone appropriate training. The samples were then sent for laboratory analysis, where DNA traces left by different species were detected.
The highlights of the findings in Hornsby Shire waterways were as follows:
- Threatened species detected – grey-headed flying foxes (bats), large-footed myotis bats (fishing bats), powerful owls and pilotbirds
- Native mammals detected – sugar gliders (possums), feathertail gliders (possum), antechinus (mice) and rakalis (water rats)
- Most detected critters – frogs, gudgeons (fish) and eels
Hornsby Shire Council Mayor, Warren Waddell has thanked residents for their involvement in contributing to the assessment of creek biodiversity across the Shire.
"Volunteers collected eDNA samples from an incredible 41 creek locations across the Shire during Spring 2023 and Autumn 2024," Mayor Waddell said.
"This is the first time data of this kind has been gathered in Hornsby Shire and I would like to thank all the citizen scientists for their efforts. The project has provided valuable insights into local aquatic wildlife for future ecological studies. I am passionate about maintaining our unique environment and way of life here in Hornsby and this project is a great demonstration of the shared commitment many residents in Hornsby Shire have."
As well as enhancing our understanding of local creek ecosystems, the project also sought to deepen community involvement and had close to 100 volunteers take part.
Kaija R., a citizen scientist, shared her experience: "I really enjoyed the opportunity to participate with my 14-year-old son. The project provided me with the opportunity to teach him the value of social involvement, volunteering and investing time into protecting our local environment."
Steve G. added, "What makes the Community, Creeks and Critters project so special is seeing the joy on our youngest team members' faces. Sharing and caring about community is what life's all about."
