New Hollows Habitats (2019 – current)

This project is supported by funding from the ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences Small Grants Scheme ($8000) and through the ANU Vice Chancellor’s Visiting Artist Fellowship Scheme ($8000).

Nesting hollow availability is a critical limiting factor on native bird populations including rosellas, cockatoos, parrots, pardalotes, kookaburras and owls. In this research project, Raquel Ormella and Ashley Eriksmoen are collaborating with conservation biologist Rob Heinsohn at ANU Fenner School of Environment and Society and the ACT City Renewal Authority to develop designs and prototypes of artificial nesting hollows. The project aims to address the knowledge gap in existing nesting box design, developing solutions for durability, thermal insulation, species-suitability, and aesthetic appeal. This ongoing project contributes to the understanding of how design affects breeding population success, and how aesthetic considerations impact public engagement.