Biodiversity in Canada Bay

Biodiversity is most simply defined as the variety of life on earth. All living things interact with one another in some form, having evolved over millions of years to form complex inter-relationships that are integral to ecosystem function. Protecting and enhancing biodiversity is essential for the long-term sustainability of nature and our way of life.

Despite the small size, isolation and relatively degraded condition of the City of Canada Bay’s natural environment, the area retains a surprisingly diverse range of endemic flora and fauna.

Studies carried out by ecological consultants in 2002/2003 revealed that there are a total of 159 different native plant species present in the Canada Bay Local Government Area, including one species (Narrow-leaved Wilsonia) listed as Vulnerable under Schedule 2 of the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995).

The City also provides habitat for three Endangered Ecological (vegetation) Communities including:

• Sydney Turpentine-Ironbark Forest
• Coastal Saltmarsh in the Sydney Basin Bioregion
• Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest.

In addition to this floral diversity, the studies found that the LGA supported 11 species of native mammal; 86 species of native birds; 7 native lizards, 1 freshwater turtle and 6 native frog species.

For further information regarding the City's biodiversity, the following documents are available to download:

• Flora Inventory for the City of Canada Bay
• Fauna Survey 2002-2003 for the City of Canada Bay.