Hooded Plover Chick Approaching Flight Stage at Ocean Grove

16 January 2025

The Hooded Plover chick between Wedge St and Tuckfield St beach accesses has reached four weeks of age and is progressing well towards its juvenile flying stage. The chick has been observed attempting short-distance flights, marking a crucial milestone in its development.

The temporary beach closure will remain in place until the chick demonstrates sustained flight capability of over 50 metres, anticipated within the coming week or so. Once the closure is lifted, the juvenile bird will still require community support as it develops its flying skills.

We extend our sincere gratitude to our dedicated volunteers who have contributed significant time educating beach visitors about these threatened shorebirds particularly Friends of the Hooded Plover Bellarine. The community’s cooperation during this period have been instrumental in the chick’s successful development.

Visitors are reminded that even after closure removal:

• Keep dogs on lead in the area

• Maintain appropriate distance from the Hooded Plover family

• Follow all signage and volunteer guidance

We’re very happy and appreciative that so many members of the community are keeping an eye out for the Hoodies this year.

While visiting the beach, it is possible that you might find a nest with eggs before we do.

When Hoodie parents detect a possible threat, such as a person near their nest, they will try to protect the nest by leading you away from it. If you see a nest with eggs but you can’t see the parents – don’t worry, they likely won’t be far away.

If you find a nest with eggs:

Do not touch or move the eggs – if the eggs are moved the parents might struggle to find them again
Move away from the area – parent Hoodies will only incubate the nest if there are no perceived threats present
Let us know – please contact Barwon Coast 5254 1118 so that our Natural Reserves team can take action