Biological diversity is the plants, animals and other organisms that are native to a particular area.

This variety of life is both intricate and complex and ranges from the large scale of ecosystems to the different types or species of plants and animals to the genetic differences between individuals of the same species.

Before 1836 the landscape in the City of Onkaparinga was covered in vegetation that reflected the natural features of the plains, foothills, estuaries and coastal lagoons. These landforms supported a diverse range of native fauna including the platypus which was found in the Onkaparinga River.

Today only 9% of the City of Onkaparinga is covered with native vegetation. Some types of vegetation have been dramatically reduced including the Eucalyptus porosa (mallee box) woodland as it was located on the plains where urban development has occurred.

The City of Onkaparinga, as an owner or custodian of public land, has care and control of significant areas of biological diversity, mainly situated within riverine corridors, coastal areas, reserves, road reserves, cemeteries, Crown land and landfill sites.

A Native Vegetation Strategy 2010-2014 outlines how Council will conserve and improve our native vegetation over the next five years.

New Chick = Biodiversity success

One Hooded Plover chick has successfully fledged (ie it can fly) at Port Willunga along with others down the coast. This success could not be without assistance of locals keeping their dogs away from the nesting areas. Volunteers fenced off the nests and installed signage alerting people about the nests to give the new families some space and to please keep dogs on a leash. The NRM Board and City of Onkaparinga supplied the signage and Dog’s Breakfast events were held early in summer to seek support from locals. This is a key example highlighting the great work and collaboration between volunteers, the NRM board, local government and the community.