About the project

Ensuring shorebirds habitat is a sure thing

Hobsons Bay is home to five significant sites that provide important habitat for a large number of resident and migratory shorebirds. These sites are Truganina Parklands in Altona, Altona Coastal Park, Sandy Point, Paisley Challis Wetlands, Rifle Range and Jawbone Reserve in Williamstown.

Resident shorebirds can be observed in Hobsons Bay all year round. They move from place to place for breeding, feeding or roosting but, unlike migratory shorebirds, they do not travel large distances following seasonal changes.

Migratory shorebirds use the summers of both southern and northern hemispheres to conduct their life cycle. During their non-breeding phase, they inhabit the southern hemisphere in flocks, arriving in Hobsons Bay in September. They feed mainly on small creatures living in mudflats at important sites including internationally recognised Cheetham Wetlands and Truganina Parklands at the mouth of the Laverton Creek.

Shorebirds are sensitive indicators of change in their environment and can provide early warnings of environmental problems including those caused by climate change and deteriorating habitat quality. Threats to shorebirds and their habitat in Hobsons Bay include: loss of coastal and inland wetlands, invasive weeds, introduced predators, human-related disturbance and climate change.

As part of the 2014 Mayoral program, we have installed an interpretive sign at Doug Grant Reserve displaying the different birds that, at various times, frequent our wetland areas. As well as helping people to identify resident and migratory birds, the sign will help build awareness among our community towards the importance of maintaining the birds’ delicate habitats.

Dogwalkers are advised that by restraining their dog from exploring and disturbing wading birds in these natural places, they are aiding their global survival.

Benefits

• Enhances habitat
• Fosters community connection