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Conservationists have issued a urgent warning that continued clearing of WA’s northern jarrah forests for aluminum ore extraction will push the threatened rare cockatoo species "to the edge of survival."

Clear Choice for Future

A volunteer with Birdlife WA, who has spent years campaigning for better protection of what he calls the state’s "forgotten" black cockatoo, said there is a definitive decision that will decide the bird’s future. "It’s one or the other—Baudin’s or bauxite," he remarked.

The black-plumed, pale-faced cockatoo, known for its distinctive vocalization, is endemic to the southwestern region of Western Australia.

Unique Features

In contrast to the more widely recognized related species, the Baudin’s cockatoo has a longer, narrower bill, which operates like a surgical tool to extract seeds from marri nuts without damaging the entire nut.

In 2023, local bird conservationists proposed the species for elevated status to highest threat level under state legislation, after studies indicated the population had declined by 90% over the last four decades.

Although international bodies like the IUCN classify the Baudin’s as critically endangered, the state’s threatened species scientific committee declined the nomination, citing lack of evidence.

Mining Expansion Threats

Conservationists now fear the cockatoo is under increased threat than ever due to proposed extensions of bauxite mining in the northern jarrah forests.

Mining corporation a major company has expansion plans that would destroy more than 11,000 hectares of the already heavily mined forest—comparable to bulldozing Perth’s Kings Park 27.5 times over.

Another mining firm, South32, has also been granted approval by authorities to clear over 9,400 acres for the expansion of its mining operation.

Essential Environment

The birds rely on ancient tree cavities in the Darling Range habitat south-east of Perth as their primary winter habitat.

The majority of these cockatoos nest in the remote southwestern area and travel seasonally to forage in the northern jarrah forest between autumn and spring each year.

Mining companies in the region have a long history of what the local environmental group describes as "strip mining"—clearing entire sections to reach the bauxite underneath.

"Pictures show of vast cleared areas, and there will be only a single tree remaining," said Matt Roberts.

Roberts stated that to secure the Baudin’s future, "it’s vital to stop mining in forests and habitat destruction for resources."

"These tree hollows can take hundreds of years to develop. They’re in ancient specimens. They can’t be rehabilitated or brought back at the pace that the cockatoo needs them to be."

Public Response

The state’s Environmental Protection Authority recently initiated the mining plans for community consultation—marking the first time in six decades that the community has had the opportunity to review the mining activities in the area.

The consultation received more than 59,000 submissions—the highest number ever in such a procedure. The vast majority were pre-written comments from an organized campaign, and the authority noted that the sheer number demonstrated widespread concern in the evaluation.

Irreversible Consequences

In its submission to the authority, the conservation group said additional extraction in the ecologically rich zone would have "permanent and devastating" effects for Western Australia’s birds, including the three cockatoo varieties.

The group warned that the Baudin’s would become functionally extinct within five decades or even earlier if the expansions proceed.

Much of the planned deforestation is in the highest quality habitat, which include old, mature trees.

Company Response

An company representative said the corporation believes ecological considerations should be "carefully evaluated and responsibly managed in conjunction with industrial operations necessary to produce aluminum, primarily for climate goals."

"At existing and future sites, we have avoidance measures in place to protect ecologically sensitive zones," they added.

The representative said planned safeguards include protecting nesting sites and creating protected perimeters around them.

Cultural Significance

Henryon commented that Baudin’s are so integral to locals, "we almost take them for granted."

"They’re a common sight; they are part of the south-west’s identity. Can we accept their disappearance?" he asked.

"To ensure their survival, we need to preserve their habitat. If we’re truly committed, we must take action now."