Plover breeding at a high

TEN hooded plovers have successfully fledged across the Surf Coast region in the last six months, the highest number in recent history.

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) said it had been a landmark breeding season for the endangered bird species.

This season has seen a total of 20 chicks recorded across the Surf Coast, more than doubling the previous record of nine chicks set in 2017-2018.

A historic first was achieved at Aireys Inlet, with three out of three plovers fully fledging.

Successful breeding also took place at the Barham River in Apollo Bay, and promising results were posted in Port Campbell’s National Park.

GORCAPA conservations coordinator Scott Hives thanked Parks Victoria and volunteer teams for their dedicated monitoring and diligence.

“Every person who respected beach signage, controlled their dogs, or took the time to learn about these precious birds has played a role in this conservation success.

“The fact that three chicks successfully fledged at Aireys Inlet is nothing short of a miracle, especially given that so many nests have failed there over the past five years.”

“We’re thrilled with these results, and they show that more people understand the importance of working together to protect the hoodies.”