A dog owner’s guide to Hooded Plover nesting season

As a dog owner, taking your furry friend to the beach is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. But did you know that Australia’s beaches are also home to endangered Hooded Plovers?

With fewer than 800 of these birds left in South Australia, it’s important to take extra care, especially during their breeding season from August to March. Similarly, the Red-capped Plover, known for its bright red cap and small size, also faces challenges.

Here’s how you can help protect these vulnerable shorebirds while having fun with your dog.

1. Keep your dog on a leash near nesting areas

Hooded and Red-capped Plover nest directly on the sand, which makes their eggs and chicks easy to disturb. By keeping your dog on a leash, especially near fenced-off areas or signs indicating a nesting site, you can help ensure these birds are safe.

2. Stick to designated dog-friendly zones

Many beaches have areas where dogs are allowed to run off-leash. Make sure to stay within these zones, as they are usually located away from Hooded and Red-capped Plover nesting sites. This way, your dog can have fun without putting the birds at risk.

3. Be aware of signs and fences

If you see areas of the beach that are roped off or marked with signs, it’s likely a Hooded Plover nesting site. Keeping your dog away from these areas is crucial. Even a brief disturbance can cause the birds to abandon their nests, which can be fatal for their eggs and chicks.

4. Clean up after your dog

Leaving dog waste on the beach can attract predators that threaten Hooded and Red-capped Plovers. Always clean up after your dog and dispose of waste properly to help keep the beach safe for these endangered birds.

5. Spread the word among other dog owners

The more dog owners who know about Hooded and Red-capped Plovers, the better the chance these birds have of survival. Share these tips with other dog owners in your community or on social media.

Why it matters

Hooded Plovers are vital to our coastal ecosystems, but their numbers are declining. As dog owners, we can take simple steps to protect these birds while enjoying the beach with our pets.

Join the effort to protect Hooded Plovers

Want to do more to help? Consider getting involved with a local conservation group such as BirdLife Australia. Every action counts and together, we can ensure that our beaches remain a safe haven for these special birds.