A SMALL team of local volunteers under the guidance of BirdLife Australia is seeking more volunteers to help monitor the vulnerable Hooded Plover or Hoodie.
The Bunurong coastline stretching from San Remo to Inverloch is seen as vitally important to the ongoing survival of the Hooded Plover.
The Hoodie’s future is threatened by ongoing human-related disturbance, increased coastal use and introduced pests that are placing additional stresses on the bird’s breeding success during the nesting season from September to April.
Local volunteers are working with the South Gippsland Conservation Society and the Cape Paterson Residents and Ratepayers Association to manage invasive weeds at Hoodie nesting sites.
With just over 700 birds remaining in Victoria the section on the coastline from San Remo to Inverloch has the second highest population of breeding Hoodies in the state.
David Hartney one of three volunteer Beach Team Leaders for the Friends of the Hooded Plover on the Bass Coast from San Remo to Inverloch is passionate about protecting the Hoodie.
“We are always on the lookout for new blood,” said David.
“The retirement of several volunteers this season has created the need for additional volunteers to maintain the group’s monitoring capability,” he said.
“There are a range of activities you can undertake to help the cause.”
For more information on the local Hooded Plover monitoring program or to register your interest in becoming a volunteer email David Hartney at dwhartney@bigpond.com or go to BirdLife Australia Beach Nesting Bird Hub at beachvol.birdlife.org.au/login/index.phpphp
