Grade 5s Learn About Nest Boxes

A couple of weeks ago, Up2Us Landcare Alliance teamed up with Mansfield Primary School for an afternoon of hands-on environmental learning with the Grade 5 students.

The day began with a presentation about nest boxes — artificial hollows designed to provide shelter for native wildlife such as birds, gliders, and possums. We explored how land clearing and habitat loss have reduced the number of natural tree hollows available, and why nest boxes can play a vital role in supporting species that depend on them.

Afterwards, we walked to the Mullum Wetlands to check some of the installed nest boxes. The students were excited to discover two brush-tailed possums using the boxes — a real-life example of how these structures make a difference for local wildlife.

The adventure doesn’t stop there. The Grade 5 students will soon be designing and building their own nest boxes as part of their learning, contributing to wildlife conservation in a practical and lasting way.

At Up2Us Landcare, we love working with young people to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. Days like this show that when we connect kids with nature, we’re planting seeds of care, curiosity, and action for the future.