Breeding season begins for local beach birds

RESIDENTS are being urged to stay clear of closed off beach areas as breeding season begins for the region’s beach nesting birds.

The endangered Hooded Plover, known to inhabit nests on Bellarine surf beaches at Breamlea, Thirteenth Beach, Ocean Grove, Collendina and Point Lonsdale is in their breeding season, which takes place between August and April.

The Red-capped Plover is also a beach nesting bird residens will need to look out for at Thirteenth Beach in Barwon Heads, Breamlea estuary and Ramblers Road Foreshore in Portarlington.

City of Greater Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan says plovers are a high-priority bird in the region given their status as an endangered species.

“We are so lucky to have stunning beaches to enjoy, and this is the time to be mindful of who else is using our beaches, ” Mayor Sullivan said.

“By staying away from signed nesting areas and following dog regulations, we can give these remarkable beach nesting birds the space they need to nest, feed and nurture their offspring.”

Hooded Plover nests and chicks are vulnerable due to their flightless and welcoming nature, with few living long enough to fledge.

Hooded Plovers are down to only 12 breeding pairs on the Bellarine, making them especially susceptible to extinction.

Mitigating risks, the City of Greater Geelong, coastal land managers and community groups such as Friends of the Hooded Plover Bellarine, are taking measures to protect their breeding spots by installing signs, temporary barriers and wooden teepees. Dog regulations are also being enforced.

Advice for beachgoers includes:walking along the water’s edge adhering to Hooded Plover nesting signs giving breeding pairs and their nests plenty of space checking and complying with dog regulation signs

putting your dog on leash on dog friendly beaches when near signed or fenced breeding sites.

Bellarine Ward Councillor and Association of Bayside Councils representative Jim Mason says everyone can make a difference.

“There are many factors that affect Hooded Plovers including unleashed dogs, people, predators, introduced plant species and changes in habitat,” Cr Mason said.

“Amazing community groups like the Friends of the Hooded Plover Bellarine work to protect breeding areas of our shorebirds. By following signage and adapting your behaviour on the few beaches where these birds nest, the community can help their preservation.”

Hooded Plovers are listed and protected under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 and the Federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.