Signs help save plover chicks
Signs erected along Araluen Dr, Hardys Bay, warning of baby lapwing plovers have helped save four new chicks, according to local resident Ms Fiona Lambell.
The signs were put in place five days after the birth of the four hatchlings on July 17.
"Our dedicated plover pair have raised four chicks and are now five weeks old," said Ms Lambell.
"Last year they raised two chicks.
"In the previous five years no chicks were raised.
"Since erecting a sign in our street, survival has increased from zero per cent to 50 per cent, and this year, 100 per cent.
"Council has been supportive of this and welcomes the education of our younger, and older, residents and tourists.
"Interest from the public has been intense, both residents and tourists alike check on their progress daily and do a beak count as they pass on the their morning walk," said Ms Lambell.
Lapwing plovers are a protected native bird and their habitat extends along mud flats and open grass lands surrounding the area.
Adult plovers sit on their eggs for 28 to 30 days.
Between the ages of two and three months, the baby plovers begin to fly.
During this time they become vulnerable to predators such as humans and dogs, said Ms Lambell.
They continue to stay with their parents for an additional eight to nine months.
Email, 26 Aug 2013
Fiona Lambell, Hardys Bay
Photo: Fiona Lambell