The hooded plover (Thinornis cucullatus cucullatus) a small non-migratory shorebird less than 20cm long. The species inhabits beaches backed by dunes and that accumulate large amounts of seaweed.

During winter months they gather in larger flocks, but during breeding months (August-April) they distribute as pairs, with their own stretch of beach. Eggs are laid directly on the sand. After hatching, chicks are flightless for five weeks, feeding independently under their parents’ watch.

Major threats

• Crushing of eggs and chicks by beach walkers, dogs and horses
• Disturbance of adult birds or chicks leading to nest and chick loss
• Predation by invasive animals and other birds

Key actions

• Protect nesting sites from human and animal disturbance through signage/fenced exclusion zones
• Educate beach users and ensure compliance with regulations
• Undertake feral predator control
• Limit beach disturbance and remove invasive weeds that contribute to coastal erosion