Increased number of swift parrots found near NSW mine reinforces need for habitat protection, say conservationists

The swift parrot’s habitat in NSW is under threat from land clearing associated with a coal mine. Photograph: ROBBLAKERS/Rob Blakers

The detection of an increased number of critically endangered swift parrots near a coal mine in north-west New South Wales highlights flaws in Australia’s national environmental laws, advocates say.

Conservationists called on the federal government to protect remaining habitat for the swift parrot in the Leard state forest from further clearing.