Moreton Bay features a number of wetlands which are protected under the RAMSAR convention and provide habitat to migratory shorebirds that are protected by the Japan Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA) and the China Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA). Migratory shorebird populations of international significance feed and roost in and near port areas. The progressive reclamation process at the FPE temporarily creates habitat types suitable for shorebirds roosting at high tide, and is used by up to 16,000 shorebirds at peak migration times. PBPL has also constructed a permanent shorebird roost in close proximity to the FPE. This, along with other existing high tide roosts around Moreton Bay, will continue to provide long-term habitat for roosting shorebirds following the completion of the FPE.
PBPL has partnered with the Queensland Wader Study Group (QWSG) over the last 25 years to carry out monthly shorebird counts at PBPL’s shorebird habitat areas. PBPL also support QWSG in banding and leg-flagging migratory birds found on port land. Data from these monitoring programs is collated with data from around Queensland and Australia to provide a greater understanding of migratory shorebirds.
LATEST RESEARCH AND MONITORING (AT A GLANCE)
- The monthly total bird count numbers for 2019-2020 were consistent with historical records, noting that surveys did not occur in April and May due to COVID constraints. International records also indicate an overall decline in species numbers.
- 12 migratory shorebird species have been recorded during the survey year
- Three species had their highest count since 2013 during the 2019-20 summer, including the Bar-tailed Godwit, Grey-tailed Tattler and Pacific Golden Plover. Of particular interest, the Pacific Golden Plover was 46% higher than the next highest maximum count recorded in 2007.
2023 Shorebird Monitoring Report