MILLIONS of migratory Australian birds could be in danger if Australia does not help Papua New Guinea protect its vast southern wetlands, world-renowned American scientist Jared Diamond was quoted in The Australian.
This week, Mr Diamond launched new wildlife management areas in PNG’s TransFly region, saying they were globally significant and crucial to protect birds migrating out of Australia, Asia, Europe and Siberia.
The University of California professor said Australia should spend tens of millions of dollars to help PNG protect its wetlands, savannah and forests to ensure the future of seasonal bird migrants.
Millions of Australian birds including pelicans, ibis, egrets, geese, ducks, waders, bee-eaters and pigeons fly to the rich TransFly feeding grounds, south of the Fly River, to spend the southern winter each year.
“Eventually, I hope Australia would wake up, it’s in Australia’s self-interest to preserve the fauna of PNG,” Mr Diamond said.
The conservation biologist, geographer and ornithologist was invited by the conservation organisation WWF to launch 710,000ha of new protection zones at a ceremony at Wando village on the Bensbach River.
Mr Diamond further said he hoped Australia, Asian and European countries would recognise the importance of supporting conservation efforts in PNG.

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