Unit: Endangered Species
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Worksheet C - Hooded Plover |
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| Background The Hooded Plover is a small shore bird found predominantly on isolated ocean beaches. The Victorian population is estimated to be around 600 birds. Disturbance by people is the major threat to the birds. Walkers, horseriders and people in vehicles can easily frighten the birds, forcing them to leave the nest for long periods of time. The result is that the eggs suffer from exposure to excess heat or cold. Other threats to the species include feral predators, dogs, and the destruction of nests through flood or storm damage.  Since 1995, records of the number of adult and juvenile birds along the coastline of Wilsons Promontory National Park have been kept. This has been done in conjunction with a fox baiting program prior to the breeding season from October to January. ACTIVITY Interpreting the Data
Assessing Program Effectiveness From their understanding of the number of birds, have the students assess whether they think the baiting program should continue. For an update of the most recent data contact gbaxter@parks.vic.gov.au
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