New mapping is here!
Habitat mapping is the process of identifying, documenting and visually representing where different types of natural environments and wildlife habitats occur across a landscape using tools like satellite imagery and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). It shows not just where species live, but the specific ecological conditions they need to survive and thrive. This information is essential for understanding biodiversity because it reveals how threatened species are distributed, how their environments are changing, and where they face the greatest risks.
Governments and planning authorities rely on habitat maps to make informed decisions about land use, conservation priorities and development. For example, detailed habitat maps help state and local governments identify areas of high ecological value that may need protection, guide where to focus restoration efforts, and ensure that new infrastructure or land-use plans avoid or minimise harmful impacts on wildlife and ecosystems. By linking habitat data with planning frameworks, these maps support more effective biodiversity conservation and sustainable development across regions.
Habitat Mapping in SEQ for the Glossy Black-Cockatoo was originally undertaken in 2016 by Health Land and Water. Thanks to generous support from the Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service Inc. (WIRES) through a Pat Connors Avian Grant, a new habitat map has been created for the region by the Glossy Black Conservancy.
Project leader, Liz Gould said ‘I presented the new mapping to the Recovery Team who were really grateful to be able to use this work to help shape the recovery plan.’
Taxon Profile and Mapping Rules
A taxon profile is a comprehensive summary of biological, ecological, and distributional information about a specific species or subspecies. In order to accurately update the habitat mapping for South-eastern Glossy Black-Cockatoo, we also need to update its taxon profile. This detailed document outlines the known characteristics, ecological requirements, and habitat preferences of a species or subspecies. It includes information such as scientific classification, distribution, breeding and feeding behaviour, threats, and key habitat attributes.
Together with the updated taxon profile, the mapping rules determine the how, what, when and why behind the maps. The rules ensure scientific rigor and consistency when interpreting habitat use and combining various data sets across the region.
Accessing the new maps
We have created a read-only version of the map which is available for everyone to use.
For more information about the maps or to request access to the shapefiles, please submit a data request form to info@glossyblack.org.au
Shannon Mooney, the projects spatial systems specialist said ‘The final product has been submitted to DETSI for review and integration with Essential Habitat mapping.’
We are grateful to the many people who contributed their time and expertise to this project, including Mike Barth, Guy Castley, Gabriel Conroy, Ian Gynther, Daniella Teixeira and Elizabeth Williams.
With special and deep thanks to project leaders Liz Gould and Shannon Mooney.
Data was drawn from both published and unpublished sources, and was improved with guidance from species specialists.
We also acknowledge the invaluable contributions of thousands of birdwatchers and citizen scientists who have searched for and recorded Glossy Black-Cockatoos and their feed trees. Your efforts made this map possible — thank you!
