Shorebird Recovery

We work closely with National Parks, other government agencies, shorebird support groups and landowners to protect the breeding activities of four (4) species of endangered shorebirds:

• Little Tern
• Hooded Plover
• Pied Oystercatcher
• Sooty Oystercatcher

How you can protect shorebirds

Shorebirds nest along beaches in the Shoalhaven.

We can all play our part in protecting these endangered creatures:

• If you are taking your dog for a walk make sure it is on a leash
• Stick to the wet sand, as these birds’ nest on dry areas
• Keep your distance to shorebirds and their eggs
• Pay attention to shorebird nesting signs 

You can watch a short video, 'How dog walkers can share the shore', prepared by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment for easy tips when walking your dog on the beach.

How we protect shorebirds

Predator control

• Especially foxes and ravens

Signage and community education

• Especially regarding dogs on beaches and the disruption of shorebird nest sites
• View the Shorebird Nesting brochure

Assisting landowners in adjoining target zones with fox control

• A combination of baiting, trapping and shooting is conducted in adjoining areas in National Parks, Council reserves and on private lands generally within 5km of the nesting sites - baiting generally runs between August and March

Ranger presence at beaches to enforce regulations regarding dogs during tourist times

• Dogs are prohibited in wildlife protection areas and other designated prohibited areas. Dogs must be on leash in all other areas and are only permitted to be off-leash in designated areas
• Please contact Council's Ranger Services if you have concerns about dogs near shorebird prohibited areas

Information on horse riding on beaches & foreshores

• Riding horses on beaches and other foreshore areas can cause disruption of shorebird nest sites
• View our Responsible horse riding on beaches & foreshores fact sheet

Shoalhaven City Council’s efforts have been assisted by grant funding from various State and Commonwealth Government programs.

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service undertake the main responsibilities for the Shorebird Recovery Program.

View:

• South Coast Shorebird Recovery Program 

Last updated on 19 July 2021