Wild Bird Wednesday 690 - Hooded Plovers

Hooded Plovers (Thinornis cucullatus) are an endemic Australian wader. They are a non-migratory bird found in sandy coastal area of Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. It is a medium sized  bird, with a prominent red beak and eye rings, and a dark black hood. The sexes are similar in size and plumage,

They are considered endangered largely due to the disturbance of their beach nest sites by the people, dogs and horses that also use these beaches.  The eggs and young birds are heavily predated by foxes, cats, silver gulls and ravens.  All in all, it's not easy being a Hooded Plovers.

Hoodies (as they are known) are emblematic of Australia's wilder souther beaches. There are probably no more than 3000 of these birds in existence.  

Thankfully, I was able to watch a number of pairs of this rather charming bird on the beaches of Kangaroo Island.  When I walk on a wild beach and see Hoodies I always think I have seen 'something'!

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