Less than one in ten Hooded Plover chicks - known affectionately as Hoodies - survive to adulthood. 

It’s a tough reality, and one that conservation teams are working hard to change. But with so few volunteers stepping forward in Apollo Bay and surrounding areas, the birds are at greater risk than ever. 

This breeding season, we are working in partnership with BirdLife Australia to call on locals and visitors to help turn things around. We're seeking new volunteers to join efforts & sharing information on how to protect these endangered beach-nesting birds during their fragile breeding season. 

Volunteers play a crucial role by monitoring nesting sites, collecting data, keeping an eye on newly hatched chicks, and educating beachgoers on how to share the shore responsibly.

The New Hoodies Heroes Program is focused on beaches and foreshore areas between Separation Creek and Moonlight Head, where nesting activity is high, but local volunteer numbers are in decline. Locals and holidaymakers in these areas are invited to join the Hoodies Heroes team.

Whether you're a local or visiting the region, you can make a difference. Just a couple of hours a week can help give Hoodies a better chance at life.

Training is provided by our dedicated Conservation team throughout Spring, with ongoing support from BirdLife Australia’s Beach-nesting Birds Hub and local rangers.