The Glenorie Probus Club welcomed a pair of remarkable guest speakers this month, offering locals a rare glimpse into the secret lives of one of Australia’s most impressive nocturnal predators. Georgia Cameron of Sydney Wildlife Rescue and musician-author Michael Byles shared their decade-long study of Powerful Owls, accompanied by their special guest, “Budawa,” a preserved owl specimen.
Native to Australia, Powerful Owls are the country’s largest owls, with wingspans reaching up to 140 centimetres and body lengths of around 65 centimetres. Listed as a Threatened Species with a Vulnerable conservation status in New South Wales, these apex predators play a vital role in their ecosystem. Unlike most owl species, male Powerful Owls are typically slightly larger than females.
Primarily arboreal hunters, Powerful Owls feed mostly on small to medium-sized marsupials, such as ring-tailed possums, which make up about three-quarters of their diet. While they generally inhabit primary forests with tall native trees, they can adapt to different habitats outside the nesting season.
Cameron captivated the audience with stories from Byles Creek Valley in Beecroft and Pennant Hills, where she and Byles have been monitoring a local population of Powerful Owls for more than ten years. With names given to every owl in the area, the pair recounted the rescues of notable birds, including Bethany and the young owlet Iggy, born earlier this year. Their tales highlighted both the charm and the fragility of these nocturnal hunters, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts across the 350-hectare valley.
After the talk, club members enjoyed their monthly morning tea and catch-up at Galston High School, continuing the relaxed tradition of the Glenorie Probus Club.
The club meets at Glenorie RSL at 11:00 am on the fourth Wednesday of each month, welcoming new members. For enquiries, contact Wendy Black on 9653 1022 or wendyireneblack@yahoo.com.au
