Orange-bellied parrot listed as critically-endangered.




The orange-bellied parrot, which has been cited by the federal Environment Minister in a decision to overturn approval for a wind farm, has been listed as a critically-endangered species.
Senator Ian Campbell says the parrot's protection level has been raised because only 100 to 150 adult birds exist and its long-term survival is not secure.
"The orange-bellied parrot was originally listed as endangered under previous legislation that did not provide for a critically endangered category," Senator Campbell said in a statement.
"It only makes sense that a bird which is so critically endangered be recognised by elevating it to the highest level of protection that the [Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act] Act can offer.
"The independent Threatened Species Scientific Committee made its assessment and strongly advised me to provide the new listing."
Earlier this year Senator Campbell decided not to approve the Bald Hills wind farm in Gippsland, Victoria, on the basis that it would pose a threat to the parrots.
He subsequently pledged $3.2 million to protect and expand the parrots' habitat.
A small bat, the christmas island pipistrelle, has also been listed as critically endangered.
Senator Campbell says the numbers of the bat, which was listed as endangered in 2001, are continuing to decline due to predators such as rats, feral cats and the yellow crazy ant.
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