Lack of dog control can lead to a dead hoodie

VOLUNTEERS keeping watch over the Surf Coast’s hooded plovers say it is disappointing that a few people are not eager to help protect the endangered bird species, and it only takes one out-of-control dog for disaster to strike.

There are eight breeding pairs and two active nests between Point Impossible and Moggs Creek, and walkers are being asked to temporarily leash dogs for 100 metres either side of the birds and to walk at the water’s edge.

However, loose dogs killed a 19-day-old chick at Point Roadknight on January 6.

Bron Ives from Friends of the Hooded Plover Surf Coast said the chick’s death and the distress of its parents “broke a lot of people’s hearts”.

“Several holidaymakers had walked the beach daily watching the chick’s progress. As volunteer Janice Carpenter said: ‘All it took was one outof- control dog, and in a few seconds the chick was dead’.”

She said volunteers and beachgoers who cared about the birds did a great job, but more needed to be done.

“Hooded plovers are protected, and damaging their nests, or allowing dogs or people to chase or harass them (or other birds), is a crime attracting penalties including fines up to $4,029.

“Local and state authorities need adequate resources and your support so they can play a more proactive role.

“Contacting your Surf Coast Shire councillor and Member of Parliament to voice your support helps.”

She said anyone who would like to volunteer an hour or so of their time each week during the breeding season should head to birdlife.org.au/projects/beach-nesting-birds/for-volunteers.