Galahs pair for life and nest in tree hollows of old gum trees. Keep and maintain mature trees in your garden as they provide habitat and shelter for local parrots.
Galahs have shown themselves to be experts at securing nest sites in Perth, often ruthlessly evicting other native parrots from hollows to claim for themselves.
Novel Shelter
Below is a template and some important considerations regarding nest boxes for galahs.
Install the box on a tall tree close to the main trunk or a thick horizontal limb five meters or higher.
Position nest boxes away from direct afternoon sun.
Nest boxes are a long-term commitment and need maintenance and repair over time.
Never use metal wire inside a box. A wooden ladder or notches in the timber is much more suitable and won’t damage claws or talons.
Chipboard boxes degrade quickly and require replacement after a year of use.
Hardier untreated timber (Jarrah) is less prone to attack by fungi, bacteria, and microorganisms.
Do not use treated timber as this can emit fumes toxic to wildlife and their young.
Maintenance is critical to ensure any resident wildlife and their offspring remain safe.
Habitat Guide - Food and Water
Providing natural sources of food
Galahs eat seeds, fruits, flowers, and insects. They spend most of their time on the ground in search of food amongst leaflitter and mulch.
Gardens with native grasses, groundcovers, and shrubs including grevillea, banksia, hakea, and wattles can provide foraging habitat for native parrots. Large trees can provide additional foraging habitat and refuge around the garden.
It is not recommended to offer birdseed to wild parrots. This can impact their health, attract pest species, and spread weeds around the neighbourhood. Visit Birdlife Australia if you are still interested in feeding native parrots.
Providing sources of water
Galahs prefer to live close to water and visit bird baths regularly.
ReWild Benefits
Despite their noisy antics, Galahs disperse seeds of native plants and help to create a more connected ecosystem throughout the landscape. Visit BirdLife Australia to learn more about these native birds and record any sightings via Birdata to help scientists monitor their population.
