Spring has sprung early. That’s not a good thing. After record-breaking summer temperatures and fires in the northern hemisphere, Australia’s warm winter and early spring are harbingers of summer heatwaves.

Early nests have been recorded before, during similar conditions in drought years, but egg laying in early August is unusual.

“We could have an extended breeding season if rainfall continues through spring and summer, or the birds may stop if summer temperatures get too high. It’s currently a case of wait-and-see,” he said.

“In summer you’re seeing declines of species throughout these areas. Climate change is here.”

Climate Council research director Simon Bradshaw said the forecasts were extremely concerning, particularly following months of record ocean and land temperatures.