WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT NOCTURNAL WILDLIFE

Thanks for coming out for a twilight bushwalk with us and Yarra City Council. We hope you enjoyed the experience, learned something new, and feel inspired to take action in protecting Australia’s incredible biodiversity. Nearly 70% of Australian mammals are nocturnal, and while they may be rarely seen, their ecological importance can’t be overstated. Ensuring these species are protected and have suitable habitat in our urban landscapes is critical to their survival. Find some resources and ideas for ways you can get involved below.

  • Pets

    If you have a cat, please keep them inside! At the very least, ensure you follow council curfews with cats kept indoors overnight from 7pm - 7am.

    Embrace the dark

    Turn lights off at night, especially unneeded outdoor lights. Opt for red light when you’re out in the bush at night (walking, camping, etc.). The wavelength of red light is less disruptive to nocturnal creatures (it’s better for our night vision too)!

  • Volunteer

    Join a local conservation group, like Friends of Merri Creek and Friends of Bats and Bushcare, and volunteer your time to help rehabilitate habitats along the Birrarung.

    Start a conversation

    Share what you learned with a friend — maybe even take them on a twilight walk of your own. Spread the love for our nocturnal friends and the ways we can advocate for them!

  • Write a letter

    Write to your local MP or the new Victorian Environment Minister, Enver Erdogan, about protecting nature. Key asks for stronger environmental laws include:

    • Protect habitat and stop the destruction of forests (no more native forest logging)

    • No new fossil fuels, support a transition to renewable energy

    Here are some tips from the Australian Conservation Foundation for how to write a letter.

    Stay informed + participate

    Learn more about defending native forests from Environmental Justice Australia.

    Get involved in key nature campaigns and stay informed on party policy, especially in the lead up to the state election.

    Sign this petition for stronger nature laws from the Australian Conservation Foundation. Call for an end to big gas with Green Peace Australia.