The Importance of Paddock Trees

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Mansfield's landscape is defined by its sentinel paddock trees, which enhance ecosystems, farming, cultural values and aesthetics. These 150-year-old giants provide essential wildlife habitat through their hollows, supporting 17% of bird species, 42% of mammals and 28% of reptiles, including bats, gliders, owls, possums, ducks, rosellas, kingfishers, snakes, frogs and skinks. These hollows, formed over 80-120 years through exposure to elements, fire and organic processes, are irreplaceable.

In our fragmented landscape, these trees create vital wildlife corridors. Microbats, consuming up to 700 insects hourly, and birds provide natural pest control. Just 2-3 paddock trees per hectare significantly increase beneficial species. Mature trees flower longer and more frequently, nourishing nectar-dependent wildlife and native pollinators.

Their ecological benefits extend beyond wildlife. Fallen timber and leaf litter create phascogale habitat while enriching soil nutrients and water infiltration. Their extensive root systems recycle nutrients, buffer soil acidity and prevent erosion. For farmers, these trees provide essential livestock shelter, improving weight gain, while supporting crop pollination through wildlife habitat.

THREATS AND SOLUTIONS

Unfortunately, these trees are declining at 2.5-11% annually through dieback, caused by:

• Stock damage and soil compaction

• Agricultural intensification

• Climate change

• Decreased natural predators

• Soil changes and spray drift

To protect these assets:

• Preserve fallen timber

• Plan tree succession in clusters

• Use stock-proof guards for saplings

• Implement protective fencing

• Maintain understorey vegetation

• Develop comprehensive paddock tree plans

With predictions showing significant paddock tree decline within 40-80 years, immediate action through planning and planting is crucial for future generations.