Shorebirds need help

THE sandspit and adjacent lagoon to the west of Prosser River mouth has been delineated by Glamorgan Spring Bay Council, using fencing and signs, as Orford Bird Sanctuary. It is recognised as an Important Bird Area by Birdlife International, is home to a variety of shorebirds and is southernmost breeding colony of the vulnerable Fairy Tern. Management has been by council’s NRM officers in collaboration with Parks and Wildlife, Dr Eric Woehler, Convenor of Birdlife Tasmania, Orford Community Group and Orford School.

Some people do not want to lose access to the southern part of the lagoon and sandy area. One of their proposals is to have some fencing removed to allow access. They propose the lagoon entrance be dredged to allow regular flushing and access to canoes, kayaks, etc. The lagoon should remain tidal because some birds feed there and disturbance by water craft will have an impact. Birdlife Australia regards the site as needing protection. The birds need all the help we can give them! Andrew Menzies

Orford

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