A new population of endangered pot-bellied greenhood orchids in the Southern Highlands has flora enthusiasts thrilled with new possibilities.
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The endangered orchid species was discovered on a private landholders property by two NSW Department of Industry employees, Vanessa Allen and Jedda Lemmon after the landholder had reported the sighting.
Threatened species officer Dr David Bain said the orchid was first reported on two years ago but could only confirm the discovery late last year due to several factors.
"Due to the nature of the orchid which flowers for a short time, we lost the opportunity the first time to identify it," he said.
"Different orchid species flower in different seasons. We've found that after the fires and drought-breaking rain, the orchids have responded well and are growing."
Keen gardeners and conservationists can help identify endangered species that they may come across.
Dr Bain said there were plenty of resources online.
"People can visit NSW Plantnet to help identify what may be in their backyard," he said.
"There's a useful app called inaturalist where people can upload photos, locations and help identify plants.
"People can also contact us for information or send photos. Photos are really useful and we will contact people if they'd like us to come out."
Dr Bain said finding the orchid and other endangered plants was part of the 'Saving our Species' conservation project.
"It's about identifying and conserving endangered species," he said.
"If the site doesn't fit within the project site, we will provide landowners with advice on how to look after the species.
"If it fits the project site, we will develop and maintain a new site but it's a case by case matter."
Other new species populations discovered in the Southern Highlands include the Kangaloon Sun orchid and the Tallong Midge Orchid.
If you think you may have endangered species on your property, you can reach out to the Saving our Species program.
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Vera Demertzis
Journalist at the Southern Highland News covering council yarns and community news. Got a tip or a story to tell? Email vera.demertzis@southernhighlandnews.com.au or call on 0427 250 908.
Journalist at the Southern Highland News covering council yarns and community news. Got a tip or a story to tell? Email vera.demertzis@southernhighlandnews.com.au or call on 0427 250 908.
