Migratory shorebirds have recently returned to Moreton Bay! These incredible travellers rely on the coastal mudflats to feed, rest and recover after flying thousands of kilometres from the Northern Hemisphere along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. Their return connects closely with the recent World Migratory Bird Day, highlighting the global effort needed to protect these extraordinary journeying species.
At Moreton Bay EEC, Year 3 students have been taking on the role of junior ornithologists through our Birds and Beaches, Dogs and Leashes program. Through geographical inquiry, students examine the important role the foreshore holds for both resident and migratory shorebirds and the human impacts that are present. They explore how simple everyday actions, such as keeping dogs on leashes near foreshores, helps to keep vulnerable shorebirds safe. A highlight is visiting the Port of Brisbane Shorebird Roost. Here, students observe these fascinating birds up close using field equipment and learn how dedicated roosting habitats help shorebirds survive and recharge.
You can support bird conservation this week during The Aussie Bird Count! Organised by BirdLife Australia, this national citizen science event invites everyone to spend just 20 minutes counting local birds in a backyard, park or beach. With 1 in 6 Australian bird species facing extinction, community counts provide essential data to track the health of bird populations across Australia. Last year alone, 63,990 participants logged over 5 million birds with the Rainbow Lorikeet taking the top spot as the most numerous bird!
Together, through education and citizen science, we can ensure Moreton Bay remains a vital refuge for migratory shorebirds!