Although nest boxes are not the same as natural tree hollows, they can still be an essential substitute for many animal species that rely on tree hollows for nesting and shelter.

In Australia, it is estimated that at least 303 native vertebrate species use hollows.

These species include 83 mammals, 114 birds, 79 reptiles and 27 amphibians (Gibbons and Lindenmayer, 2002).

The nest boxes have been carefully installed by specialist ecologists in five different vegetation zones, including Applebox-Yellowbox Woodland and Broad-leaved Peppermint - Brittle Gum Dry Forest.

Comprising different designs, the nest boxes are tailored to the requirements of a variety of animal groups.

Nest boxes have even been installed to suit different types of birds, such as small parrots and the owlet-nightjar.

The erection of nest boxes is just one part of a much bigger plan, called the Property Vegetation Plan (or PVP), which was approved by the NSW Local Land Services in December 2016.

This 123-hectare area, equivalent to more than 123 football fields, is a requirement of the wind farm’s project approval to make up for the 35 hectares of land impacted by the construction of the wind farm.

Derek Powell, Asset Manager at the wind farm said, “We’re excited about the work we’ve been doing this year to improve the significant conservation value of this beautiful and varied offset site.

“So far, we’ve planted 300 trees, seeded for native grasses, undertaken weed control, completed an extensive pest survey, and used traps to control pigs. We’ve also installed 3km of fencing to stop cattle getting in. We are especially excited to find out which species have moved into our recently installed nest boxes!”