Wildlife Conservation in the Midwest: How You Can Help from Your Own Backyard

The Midwest region of Western Australia is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, but many species are under threat from habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species. Conservation is a collective effort, and one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to help is by planting endangered native species in your garden.

In this blog, we’ll explore how planting native species supports local wildlife, where to source them, and how you can get involved in citizen science initiatives to make a real difference.

The majestic Carnaby's Black-Cockatoo, a true icon of WA's biodiversity.

The Role of Native Plants in Conservation

Native plants are the backbone of healthy ecosystems. They provide food, shelter, and nesting sites for wildlife, including endangered species like the Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo, which relies on native trees for nesting and feeding.

By planting endangered or rare native species in your garden, you’re creating a mini habitat that supports biodiversity. Here are just a few ways these plants benefit local ecosystems:

• Pollinator Support: Native plants attract bees, butterflies, and birds, helping to maintain pollination cycles.

  
  

• Wildlife Corridors: Urban gardens can act as stepping stones for wildlife, connecting fragmented habitats.

  
  

• Erosion Control: Native plants stabilise the soil and reduce runoff, which is particularly important in areas prone to erosion.

Native Plants to Consider for Your Garden

Here are some beautiful and ecologically significant plants to include in your garden:

1. Grevillea mimosoides (Acacia Grevillea): A small, hardy shrub with nectar-rich flowers that attract birds and insects. Its compact size makes it perfect for gardens of any size.

2. Macrozamia riedlei (Zamia Palm): This ancient, slow-growing plant adds unique texture to your garden. Its seeds provide food for certain native animals, though care should be taken as they can be toxic to pets.

3. Thysanotus patersonii (Twining Fringe Lily): A delicate, climbing native with stunning purple flowers that support native pollinators and add a soft, natural beauty to any garden.

Where to Source Locally Propagated Native Plants

Support local nurseries and organisations that specialise in native and endangered species. These businesses are also a wealth of knowledge about gardening in the Midwest:

1. Mooreview Plants and Trees

   • Address: 6538 Nangetty Road, Walkaway, WA 6528

   • Contact: 0497 745 327

   • Details: Specialises in hardy, water-wise native plants and trees, as well as fruit-bearing plants like citrus, figs, and mangoes.

     
     

2. Gannon’s Garden Centre

   • Address: 87 Pass Street, Geraldton, WA 6530

   • Contact: (08) 9921 1798

   • Details: Offers a range of native plants and garden supplies, perfect for creating a wildlife-friendly space.

     
     

3. Yilgarn Traders Nursery & Garden Supplies

   • Address: 333 David Road North, Waggrakine, WA 6530

   • Contact: (08) 9938 1628

   • Details: Provides native plants and materials tailored to the Midwest’s unique conditions.

     
     

Before visiting, call ahead to confirm the availability of specific plants and get expert advice on creating a wildlife-friendly garden.

Citizen Science: Join the Conservation Movement

Planting native species is just one way to contribute. Participating in citizen science initiatives connects you with broader conservation efforts and provides invaluable data for protecting wildlife.

Here are a few programs to consider:

• BirdLife Australia’s Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo Recovery Program: Help monitor cockatoo populations and report sightings.Learn More

  
  

• Atlas of Living Australia: Record observations of plants, animals, and fungi in your area to contribute to biodiversity databases.Visit the Atlas

  
  

• Local Clean-Up Events: Join or organise clean-ups to protect habitats from pollution. Some such groups are Chapman River Friends Facebook page, City of Greater Geraldton news page, Keep Australia Beautiful Council (WA) website, Midwest Carbon Zero website, Drylands Permaculture Farm drylands.org.au, and Clean Up Australia Day events page.

Community in action! Become a local hero and volunteer cleaning up our beautiful bushland to protect and restore natural habitats.

Your Garden, Your Impact

Planting native species and participating in conservation initiatives are powerful ways to support the Midwest’s unique biodiversity. Each plant you add to your garden creates a small but meaningful refuge for wildlife.

By sourcing your plants from local nurseries and connecting with citizen science programs, you become part of a larger movement working to protect the environment for future generations.

Let’s work together to create a healthier, more sustainable Midwest—one plant at a time.