Environment Matters Spring/Summer 2022

What’s in this issue 4 Fire in focus

This edition we celebrate the stunning plumage of the Kingfisher. The Kingfisher family contains 114 species. Across the Ipswich region you can find the Sacred Kingfisher ( Todiramphus sanctus ) which graces our cover, the Azure Kingfisher ( Ceyx azureus ) shown below, and the Forest Kingfisher ( Todiramphus macleayii ). The Sacred Kingfisher is a common visitor to Ipswich in spring and summer, able to be spotted in open forests and woodlands, urban parkland and along river systems and lakes. Unlike other kingfishers, Sacred Kingfishers rarely eat fish. They forage mainly on the land, swooping from a perch to capture crustaceans, reptiles, insects and larvae. Sacred Kingfishers prefer to nest in cavities, such as a burrow in a termite mound, hollow branch or riverbank. For most of the year Sacred Kingfishers are solitary and pair only for breeding season, but both parents incubate and care for the young.

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Growing a greener future, together Join the grassroots movement

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Nature’s response to flood

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Holding firm against flood Post-flood pests

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Get Ready for nature’s extremes Let’s talk Emergency Management

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Mystery of the headless hares

10 Sustainable Ipswich

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Finding a natural work-life balance

12 What’s On

14 Kids Corner

16 At your Library

Fishing by L Hepburn_Enviroplan Photo Comp

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