Environmental Connectivity

Environmental or landscape connectivity is, in general, the extent to which the landscape enables the movement of organisms between areas of habitat.

Ecologists emphasize that connectivity is vital for the survival of a species. Good connectivity helps provide maintenance of a healthy gene pool, development of various means of adaptation and on a global scale, is one way of helping animals cope with climate change.

Preserving or creating landscape connectivity is recognized as an important means for maintaining biodiversity. (‘What are wildlife corridors?’ – Aust Govt Dept Environment and Energy)

Aerial showing roadside and riparian corridors connecting four valuable reserves.

Part of roadside vegetation on Old Sale Rd

Some animals are described as ‘sedentary’ – settled in one area. Many are ‘locally nomadic’ – move locally to source a food supply or suitable habitat. Some animals are ‘migratory’ – they follow a regular seasonal pattern of movement generally for breeding purposes or for the availability of food.

Some mammals like the Koala and Possum, and a few birds are defined as sedentary. Many birds are nomadic. Some birds, fish, mammals, even some insects will migrate, (Wanderer, Crow butterflies). Nomadic and migratory species in particular will often rely on landscape connectivity for their survival.

At a local level, roadside vegetation and patches of remnant vegetation along property boundaries, etc, can provide vital pathways for organisms to move about. (Wildlife Corridors – Dept Environment and Conservation NSW)

Foreground - railside vegetation, (albeit weed-ridden). Mid - roadside vegetation in Shillinglaw Rd. Background - Gardner Holman Rd, Settlement Rd, etc.

 

Parts of our shire are now declared as peri-urban areas of Melbourne and are being developed rapidly.

While native vegetation ‘off-setting’, (properly done), can help, The Friends of Drouin’s Trees believes that, for the preservation of our wonderful environment and the animals that share it with us, and for our own health and well-being, it is incumbent of our council to ensure development is managed sensitively and sustainably and that key areas of habitat and native vegetation corridors are identified, preserved and enhanced wherever possible.