The 2025/26 Hooded Plover season has so far seen five juveniles take flight. The first two fledglings were at Aireys Inlet. A third chick was killed by a dog within the temporary wildlife protection zone: a reminder that a single lapse in compliance can have a devastating impact.
Three chicks fledged at Point Roadknight thanks to their experienced parents, the rich intertidal reef, dedicated volunteers and the permanent ‘No Dog’ zone. As at mid-March, three chicks had recently hatched at Red Rocks, so hopefully there will be more fledglings this season.
There was a new breeding pair this season which claimed territory east of the Fairhaven Surf Club. The pair hatched three chicks but they only survived for 48 hours. One of the parents was named ‘JC Green’ in recognition of the long support and advocacy of Hooded Plovers by Janice Carpenter.
Hooded Plovers (Photo by Bron Ives)
James Orton