Watch out for the pied oystercatcher
As the school holidays approach, beach users between South Ballina and Shark Bay are asked to be alert for the threatened pied oystercatchers and their chicks and to drive responsibly at all times.
National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Pest Management Officer Lisa Wellman said that in an early start to the breeding season, two clutches of pied oystercatcher had already been laid in this area.
“Signs highlighting breeding areas along the beach have been installed to alert people to the presence of nesting birds and that it is important that beach users continue to steer clear of oystercatchers,” Ms Wellman said.
“As the chicks hatch over the next few months it is particularly important to keep an eye out when driving on the beach as they have been known to shelter in tyre tracks,” Ms Wellman said.
“We would also like to ask beach users to keep a wide berth from adult pied oystercatchers who may be either sitting on eggs or trying to settle into nesting.
“As the weather warms up it is very important that the birds are not disturbed and forced to leave their nests for too long as the eggs will cook quickly in the hot sun.”
The annual fox control program, which is a joint initiative with the Tweed-Lismore Rural Lands Protection Board (RLPB) and Department of Lands, commenced in August to assist the birds in their breeding.
NPWS Ranger Andy Fay said signs at Salty Lagoon and the South Ballina 4-WD access point will be installed reminding beach users that pied oystercatchers are a threatened species.
“Drivers are also reminded vehicles are not permitted north of the South Ballina access point,” Mr Fay said.
“Domestic dogs need to be kept under control and only exercised in the designated dog exercise areas.”
