Phillip Island Nature Parks has released a further 24 bush stone-curlews on Phillip Island, describing it as "an incredible milestone for the recovery of this critically endangered species in Victoria".

The project team led by General Manager Conservation at Phillip Island Nature Parks, Jessica McKelson, Senior Scientist at Phillip Island Nature Parks, Dr Duncan Sutherland, and Australian National

University PhD candidate Paula Wasiak, travelled to Mt Rothwell Sanctuary to retrieve the bush stone-curlews, fit GPS backpacks and transport them safely to Phillip Island.

"The Nature Parks is grateful for the collaborative efforts of project partners the Odonata Foundation and The Australian National University (ANU), and support from the Penguin Foundation and our community for this landmark study to improve the long-term viability of the bush stone-curlew in south-eastern Australia," a Nature Parks spokesperson said.

"The project team anticipates an increase in bird movement around the island as we now have a population of 33 wild birds. The bush stone-curlews may be observed along pathways and roads as they become established in their new home ranges."

You can help the bush stone-curlew reintroduction program by:  

• Slowing down when driving — dusk to dawn is when birds are most active — remember that most of the birds can't fly yet.
• Keep dogs on a leash and cats contained at all times.
• Leave fallen logs on the ground for habitat.
• Report sightings at www.inaturalist.org/projects/victorian-bush-stone-curlews-burhinus-grallarius/journal or via email to  community@penguins.org.au