Great news for Hooded Plover lovers and the endangered bird species - a chick has successfully fledged at Seacliff, meaning it has now developed wing feathers that are large enough for flight and to escape predators.
After 15 eggs were laid this season at Seacliff, this is our first chick to reach fledgling stage since the 2020-21 season.
This chick was one of three to hatch at the start of January and at the time, was no bigger than a 50c piece.
Plover chicks are unable to fly until they're about five weeks old and need to find their own food by the shoreline.
If you see a Hooded Plover on the beach, the best thing to do is to keep your distance.
Green Adelaide has other tips for beachgoers to play their part in protecting the beach-nesting birds which are considered an endangered species.
- Keep your dog on a leash when at the beach - especially during spring and summer
- Only walk below the high tide mark during the nesting season
- Look out for signs and fences, indicating there is a nest or chicks on the beach
- Move away quietly when you see a Hooded Plover
- Spread the word about the beach-nesting birds
A big thank you to the Birdlife volunteers who have spent much time and effort at the beach, watching over the Hoodie family.
There are reportedly less than 70 Hooded Plovers across Adelaide and the Fleurieu Peninsula and it is estimated that there are only 500 to 800 in the whole state.
