Lorne’s hooded plover chicks take flight

LORNE’s first recorded hooded plover chicks have successfully fledged and the temporary beach exclusion zone has been removed.

The hooded plover is an endangered species and, without human assistance, only has a 2.5 per cent chance of surviving from egg to fully fledged adult.

Now able to fly short distances, the juvenile birds’ chances of survival have greatly increased, allowing beach access to be returned to the community.

Conservation efforts led by BirdLife Australia have seen the hooded plover slowly expand in number and location and the successful fledging of Lorne’s chicks marks a significant milestone in the region’s ongoing mission to protect the species.

 

Across the Surf Coast, these conservation efforts are supported by Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (the Authority), Parks Victoria and the Surf Coast Shire, as well as volunteers from the Friends of the Hooded Plover Surf Coast.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has played a role in safeguarding these precious hooded plover chicks,” Lisa Mills, the Authority’s director of environment and coastal operations, said.

“This has been an enormous effort and the successful fledging of two healthy chicks stands as an extraordinary testament to what can be accomplished when we work together.”

A fenced off area remains in place to help ease the juvenile hooded plovers into sharing the beach with humans and dogs.

Beach users are asked to continue to keep their distance and maintain effective control of their dogs while in the area.

To report the location of a hooded plover nest along the Great Ocean Road, phone the Authority on 1300 736 533, or email [email protected]