MEDIA RELEASE
23 August 2010
Planning ramps up for second shorebird count
Cradle Coast bird enthusiasts and beach lovers will be surveying the coastline between 9 October and 6 November for the second count of resident shorebirds between Narawntapu National Park and Stanley. The mass count by more than 70 volunteers is helping to compile baseline numbers of resident shorebirds, the results of which will enable monitoring of species’ trends, early identification of population problems, and increased public awareness of resident shorebird’s nesting periods and habitats.
The count was initiated in March by Cradle Coast Natural Resource Management (NRM) and leading local Ornithologist, Hazel Britton, and will continue twice a year to establish a reliable snapshot of the numbers of Red‐capped Plover, Hooded Plover, Sooty Oystercatcher and other local species. The March count identified 1,953 resident shorebirds; the most abundant being the Masked Plover and Australian Pied Oystercatcher. The count also included the endangered Little and Fairy Terns and although no sightings were recorded, organisers are hopeful of a different outcome in the Spring survey period which falls near the start of the shorebird breeding season. The breeding season typically runs from early September until late April and during this time it is particularly important for beach‐goers to walk on the wet sand so as to minimise disturbance to nests above the high tide line.
To raise the profile of shorebird species with Cradle Coast community members and to provide volunteer’s with the necessary monitoring skills, a free resident shorebird awareness and identification workshop is being held to kick‐off the count period. The workshop will take place at the Devonport Entertainment and Convention Centre on Saturday 9 October from 11am to 4pm and includes a field trip to the beach at Moorland Point where participants will be introduced to resident shorebird identification techniques in the field.
“We had a great response to the same workshop when it was run in March,” said Cradle Coast Facilitator, Dionna Newton. “So this time we’ve arranged a bigger venue and are encouraging anyone to come along, even if they’re unable to take part in the count. Participants in the workshop can still learn about the resident shorebirds on their beaches and how they can help to protect these vulnerable birds. There’s something in it for everyone, even if you’re not a bird watcher and have no experience.”
“It’s amazing where these birds nest on our beaches – usually just a simple scrape in the sand. Learning about our resident shorebirds can really increase your appreciation of our beautiful beaches and our wildlife that depend on them for survival,” Ms Newton said.
Registrations are required by 18 September to attend the free workshop and can be made by calling Hazel Britton on 6425 2785 or by email to lbonney@cradlecoast.com. Lunch is provided.
End… Cradle Coast Natural Resource Management (NRM) works with community, industry, private enterprise and government to manage and improve our natural resources to ensure a healthy future for our region. Cradle Coast NRM is a committee of the Cradle Coast Authority. Media Contacts: Dionna Newton Amanda Wilson Facilitator, Cradle Coast NRM Communications Manager Ph: 0437 986 858 Ph: 03 6431 6285