Hooded Plover Watch is a community-based initiative aimed at monitoring and improving Hooded Plover breeding success on Phillip Island. Hooded Plovers typically nest on the ground on ocean beaches in the busy summer months. The nests and chicks are extremely well camouflaged and prone to being crushed underfoot, destroyed by uncontrolled dogs and forced off their nests or away from their chicks by human disturbance.
How you can help Hooded Plover conservation:
- Walk your dog on a leash whenever you are at the beach.
- Maintain a distance from fenced off areas
- Always be vigilant for Hooded Plovers and their behaviour; despite our best efforts the birds may move from the protected areas
- Sign up to become a ‘Hooded Plover Watch’ volunteer by contacting us at volunteers@penguins.org.au
Volunteers help monitor nest sites. The Hooded Plover Watch program is conducted throughout the year but ramps up during the breeding season from late spring to early autumn. Counts of all birds on beaches are held quarterly to monitor the species in the long term.
The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is one of Australia's most popular wildlife attractions - perfect for a family holiday or getting back to nature.
Experience wild koalas in their natural habitat and stroll through Aussie bushland at our environmentally sustainable Centre dedicated to koala conservation.
Step back in time... meet the farm animals, relax in the cafe, enjoy the water views, stroll amongst heritage buildings and lovely gardens.
Located only 5 minutes from the Penguin Parade and overlooking the wild water of Bass Strait, the FREE Nobbies Centre showcases Australian fur seals and the unique marine life in our Southern Oceans.