The Victorian Conservation Regulator is cracking down on beachgoers who disturb the vulnerable hooded plover, with fines of up to $4,000 for those who allow their dogs to chase or attack the birds. The state environmental watchdog urges people to look out for the threatened species, which lays eggs on beaches between August and March.
Hooded plovers have a mere 2% survival rate from egg to fledgling, as their speckled eggs, about the size of a 20-cent coin, are often accidentally trampled by roaming dogs or careless beachgoers. Wildlife officer Monique Cugliari emphasized the need for people to keep their distance and dogs on leads, away from fenced nesting areas.
Last year, BirdLife recorded 1,003 hooded plover eggs along Victoria's coastline, but only 185 hatched, with just 66 chicks surviving to become juveniles. The regulator is asking witnesses to report violations through Crime Stoppers, as fines for allowing dogs to attack or chase the birds exceed $4,000.
Ms Cugliari noted that while some question the birds' choice of nesting sites, she believes they have the best view. She urged everyone to share the beach responsibly with wildlife this summer.
