Around 150,000 migratory and resident shorebirds visit or live in our Peel-Yalgorup wetlands and shores each year. Migratory shorebirds breed in the northern hemisphere in June and July before travelling to wetlands in the southern hemisphere to escape the harsh winters. They can be found feeding in the shallow waters of our coastal and inland wetlands from September to April each year.
The Peel-Yalgorup wetlands provide a much-needed stop for 39 species of birds that travel from Siberia, through East Asia and down to Australia each year. This route these birds follow as they migrate is called the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. Our wetlands are an important part of this flyway, where birds stop to eat and rest before heading back to the northern hemisphere to breed.
Coondanup Foreshore Reserve
Coodanup Foreshore Reserve is one area these migratory birds can be spotted over summer. To protect this shorebird habitat, we have created a bird sanctuary and observation zone. This protects the birds while still allowing the community to visit and appreciate their beauty. The sanctuary is called Djiba Gaabi Djerab Mia. In the Noongar language this means ‘place of the birds’.
At the sanctuary we have:
- Planted vegetation.
- Fenced off sensitive areas
- Displayed educational signage.
- Installed a bird hide. This is a small, closed-in shelter with a viewing area that allows bird observers to watch without disturbing the birds. Call the City on 9550 3777 to request access.
- Worked with community groups, such as the Mandurah Bird Observers Group (MBOG), to spot birds and report issues like dogs off leads.
You can get involved by:
- Observing the birds in their sanctuary. If using the bird hide, book on 9550 3777.
- Taking part in the Birdlife Annual Shorebird Count.
- Logging your bird sightings on the Birdata app.
This project was a collaboration between the City, Peel-Harvey Catchment Council, Alcoa and our local community.
