Caution urged on beaches
BEACHGOERS are being urged to look out for shorebirds, their eggs and babies this breeding season, with numbers of the vulnerable bird on the decline.
The birds live on beaches year round, and those sharing the beach are asked to avoid disturbing them during the critical breeding season.
“Breeding shorebirds lay well-camouflaged eggs on dry sand in shallow nests called scrapes,” Parks Minister Jacqui Petrusma said.
“Newly hatched chicks can’t fly and for up to a month can only run until they grow flight feathers.”
To avoid their nesting areas, beachgoers can walk on wet sand, away from breeding areas, be cautious about bringing dogs to beaches and avoid taking vehicles on to the beach to minimise disturbance.
“Beachgoers are reminded to check their local council website for information on where they can exercise dogs and what limits may apply,” Ms Petrusma said.