Local native animals are enjoying safe new homes in Greenvale’s treetops courtesy of the Mickleham Road Upgrade – Stage 1.
As part of the project’s efforts to support local biodiversity, the project team has installed 12 habitat hollows in native trees along the project area.
The hollows are intended to provide critical nesting and sheltering sites for a variety of native wildlife species including lorikeets and possums.
Created from salvaged and repurposed hollow logs, they were carefully installed in native trees selected for their dense canopies, suitable height and accessibility. The hollows mimic natural nesting environments while offering improved insulation, durability, and protection against predators and the elements.
Ecologists and arborists advised the project team to help achieve the best outcomes for the hollows and their intended inhabitants.
Trees were chosen based on their suitability for wildlife, such as those with a canopy cover exceeding 55% and a height range of 3m to 8m. Each hollow was securely attached to the trees using chains and screw loops, with locations GPS-mapped to facilitate future monitoring.
Ongoing monitoring will assess usage during the breeding season, with inspections planned for spring 2025.
The aim of the initiative is to observe native species nesting and raising young, demonstrating the hollows’ effectiveness in supporting biodiversity.
The Mickleham Road Upgrade – Stage 1 has added lanes in both directions and upgraded key intersections between Somerton Road and Dellamore Boulevard. The project has also built sections of shared-use paths for pedestrian and cyclists, boosting active transport opportunities between Greenvale and Mernda.
Major works were completed in December, delivering safer and more-reliable travel more than 6 months ahead of schedule. Crews are expected to complete the project’s finishing touches, including landscaping and lighting, by the end of March.
Find out more about the Mickleham Road Upgrade.
