In a resounding victory for Australia's avian citizens, the mellifluous warbling of the magpie has captured the hearts of the nation, claiming the top spot in the ABC's search for ‘Australia's Favourite Animal Sound’. With an impressive 36 per cent of the votes in the final round, the magpie's signature call has left a harmonious mark on the country's auditory landscape.Dr. Dominique Potvin, an esteemed behavioural ecologist and senior lecturer in Animal Ecology at the University of the Sunshine Coast, highlights the magpie's warble as an integral part of Australia's sonic identity. Not only does the magpie's song resonate through various regional dialects developed over generations, but its musical expression continues to evolve. Family groups of magpies collaborate in duets and choruses, using their songs to demarcate territories and communicate their presence.Trailing behind the magpie's melodious reign, the distinctive 'laugh' of the kookaburra secured second place in the poll. Known for their cacophonous ensemble performances, kookaburras deploy their vocal prowess to establish and protect their boundaries. Dr. Potvin acknowledges the loss of this iconic sound in some areas due to urban development and habitat degradation, which underlines the importance of conserving these auditory treasures.Reverberating in third place, the melodic and almost maniacal calls of the butcherbird captivated voters. Dr. Potvin emphasises the uniqueness of this sound, emanating from the typically subdued kingfisher family, making it a rarity in the avian world. Its intricate melodies reflect the special bond between a bird's acoustic expression and its environment.Interestingly, the poll wasn't strictly avian-centric. The banjo frog hopped its way into seventh place, a testament to the indelible impression of its resonating 'bonk bonk' sound. Also making an appearance in the top ten was the distinctive chorus of cicadas, marking their place with their characteristic 'screeeeee.'Associate Professor Jen Martin from the University of Melbourne points out the profound impact of certain animal sounds on our personal memories and experiences. She shares how the banjo frog's call evokes cherished childhood memories, emphasising that the poll encourages us all to pause, listen, and appreciate the rich soundscape that envelops us.With over 150,000 votes cast, the poll not only unveiled Australia's favourite animal sounds but also reaffirmed the nation's connection to its natural surroundings. Dr. Potvin reminds us that the allure of the natural world lies in the soundscape it offers, providing respite from the hum of human-made noise.The poll, conducted as part of National Science Week 2023, was orchestrated by ABC Science with funding from the Australian Government's ‘Inspiring Australia’ strategy. The results highlight the significance of protecting and cherishing these unique animal sounds that form a vital part of Australia's cultural and ecological heritage.As we continue to journey through the intricate tapestry of Australia's auditory landscape, it becomes evident that the symphony of nature holds immense value – not just for our hearts, but for the survival of the species that create it. In a world filled with noise, these soul-soothing sounds remind us to pause, listen, and truly appreciate the incredible diversity of life that surrounds us.

As the calendar flips to September, a month of significant importance draws near for Australians and the koalas that define part of our identity. Save the Koala Month, an initiative spearheaded by the Australian Koala Foundation (AKF), beckons us to take action and stand up as true heroes for these icons of our land.The koala, an emblem etched not only onto our flags but into our very culture, faces an increasingly precarious future. With dwindling habitats and diminishing ranges, the urgency to rally behind their cause has never been more pressing. The Chair of the Australian Koala Foundation, Deborah Tabart OAM, emphasises the gravity of this situation, stating, "The AKF currently believes there are less than 60,000 Koalas remaining in the wild and numerous challenges continue to threaten their survival."The culprits are all too familiar: habitat loss, climate change, disease, and human interference. But, in the face of adversity, there is hope, and that hope comes in the form of collective action. Save the Koala Month shines a spotlight on what unity can achieve, reminding us that a brighter future for these marsupials rests within our grasp.Save the Koala Month is a beacon of hope, a reminder that our individual efforts, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can weave into a larger tapestry of change. From planting trees in koala habitats to raising funds and amplifying awareness through social media, the ways to participate are as diverse as our nation itself. "Right now, our True Blues need true heroes," Deborah Tabart asserts.The AKF has curated a list of 30 activities to span the 30 days of the month, offering everyone the chance to contribute in ways that resonate with their talents and passions. Whether it's through art exhibitions, community events, or grassroots campaigns, the goal is to foster a deep connection between us and these beloved creatures. It's a call to action to not just save the koalas but also to deepen our understanding of our role as custodians of this land.Save the Koala Month is about more than just raising funds—it's about raising consciousness and igniting a sense of shared responsibility. Every brushstroke of art, every dollar donated, every online post shared contributes to a larger movement that will define the legacy we leave behind for future generations. The month-long celebration brings the reality of koala conservation closer to home, showing us that their survival hinges on our unwavering commitment.To dive into the heart of Save the Koala Month and explore how to contribute, donate, and participate, visit the AKF website at www.savethekoala.com. While there, be sure to follow the AKF on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on the inspiring stories of koala heroes from across the nation.The Australian Koala Foundation is at the forefront of this battle for survival, tirelessly working to protect not only the koalas but also the habitats that sustain them. Their goals are ambitious, aiming to refine and update the Koala Habitat Atlas mapping and establish the Koala Protection Act for their safeguard.Save the Koala Month is an opportunity to stand up and be counted among the heroes who contribute to securing the future of these remarkable creatures. As September approaches, let's unite as Australians and show the world what it truly means to be a hero to our True Blue Aussies—the koalas.

Australia's Favourite Animal Sound: An ABC Initiative for National Science Week 2023 12-20 AugustThe great continent of Australia is renowned for its unique and diverse wildlife, a true testament to the wonders of the natural world. As National Science Week 2023 approaches, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) is inviting everyone to join in a nationwide initiative that celebrates the extraordinary symphony of animal sounds that resonate throughout the land. This initiative, titled "Australia's Favourite Animal Sound," invites citizens to cast their votes for the most cherished calls of the wild.The Science Behind the SymphonyFrom the rhythmic screeches of cicadas during the warm summer nights to the haunting howls of dingoes echoing through the outback, Australia is home to a plethora of distinct animal sounds. The project aims to shed light on the fascinating field of bioacoustics, which delves into the study of wildlife sounds. Ecologist and science communicator, Dr. Jen Martin, emphasises the significance of animal sounds in scientific research. These sounds aid in identifying elusive creatures and provide insights into their behaviours, communication patterns, and interactions.The renowned science communicator, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, encourages individuals to embrace this opportunity to connect with Australia's unique wildlife and explore the captivating sounds they produce. By participating in this initiative, people not only contribute to determining the nation's favourite animal sound but also engage with the marvels of nature that surround them.Listening to the Call of the WildThe initiative presents a list of 28 distinct animal sounds for consideration, ranging from the iconic whip crack of the whipbird to the eerie, long call of the moaning frog. Each sound has been carefully selected by ABC's team of nature enthusiasts in collaboration with scientists, offering a diverse and captivating array of noises that represent the animal kingdom's vocal prowess.Included among the contenders are the unmistakable "koo-koo-koo-koo-koo-kaa-kaa-kaa" of the kookaburra, the melodic and maniacal calls of the butcherbird, the enchanting mimicry of the lyrebird, and the soul-stirring grunts and bellows of the koala. These captivating sounds are more than just auditory experiences; they provide valuable insights into the behaviours and communication strategies of these remarkable creatures.Join the Chorus: Cast Your VoteThe voting process has started at www.abc.net.au/sounds, where as a participant you can immerse yourself in the symphony of Australian wildlife. Take the opportunity to listen to each animal sound, learn about the creatures that produce them, and ultimately cast your vote for your top three favourites.After the initial round of voting, the list will be narrowed down to the top 10 finalists on August 11th. A second round of voting will commence, leading to the announcement of the winning animal sound on August 18th. This eagerly anticipated revelation will mark the culmination of Australia's Favourite Animal Sound project for National Science Week 2023.The project has received support through the Australian Government's Inspiring Australia strategy, showcasing the value of scientific engagement and exploration in the nation.A Celebration of Nature's MelodiesAustralia's Favourite Animal Sound initiative is a celebration of the symphony that reverberates across the country's landscapes. It encourages people to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature's soundscape, showcasing the intricate and diverse ways in which animals communicate and express themselves. By casting your vote, you're not only participating in a poll but also joining a chorus that reverberates with the essence of the Australian wilderness.So, open your ears and hearts to the enchanting calls of the wild, explore the captivating world of bioacoustics, and cast your vote to honour the most cherished animal sounds that define Australia's natural heritage.Australia’s Favourite Animal Sound: the long listBarking owl/Muurrguu (Ninox connivens): “woof woof”Banjo frog (Limnodynastes species): “bonk bonk”Boobook/Guurrguurr (Ninox boobook and Ninox leucopsis): “book book” or “mo-poke”Black cockatoo (Zanda funerea): “kee-ow”Bush stone-curlew (Burhinus grallarius): “weer-lo”Butcherbird (Cracticus torquatus and Cracticus nigrogularis): melodic and maniacalCicadas (superfamily Cicadoidea): “screeeeee”Dingo (Canis familiaris): “oh-ooll”Fairywren (Malurus species): high tinkering trillsFlying fox (Pteropus species): squeeling, squabbling and cacklingGang-gang cockatoo (Callocephalon fimbriatu): “creak creak”Galah (Eolophus roseicapilla): “chi chi”Green tree frog (Litoria caerulea): “crawk-crawk-crawk”Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae): squeals, whistles, rumblesKoala (Phascolarctos cinereus): grunts and bellowsKoel (Eudynamys orientalis): “koo-el”Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae): “koo-koo-koo-koo-koo-kaa-kaa-kaa”Lyre bird (Menura novaehollandiae): a famous mimicMagpie (Gymnorhina tibicenhas): melodious carollingMoaning frog (Heleioporus eyrei): “ooohhhugh”Possum (brushtail) (Trichosurus vulpecula): grunts and screechesPossum (ringtail) (Pseudocheirus peregrinus): squeeky chirrupsRaven (Corvus coronoides): “ah-ah-ah-aaaah” Sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps): “yap, yap”Sulphur-crested cockatoo (Cacatua galerita): “raa-aach”Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii): “raaaach”Whipbird (Psophodes olivaceus): whipcrack followed by “choo-choo” Yellow-bellied glider (Petaurus australi): shrieks and gurgles Don't forget to practise!!