BIRD #31 OF 45

Hooded Plover

The Hooded Plover is a small beach-nesting shorebird found on some of Australia’s most beautiful coastlines. Despite its tiny size, it faces big challenges as people, dogs and vehicles can easily disturb its nests.

If you’re lucky enough to spot one, be sure to give it plenty of space.

  • HABITAT

    Ocean beaches, sand dunes, coastal lagoons

  • CONSERVATION STATUS

    Vulnerable (VU)

  • LOCATION

    WA, SA, VIC, TAS, NSW

  • HOW TO SPOT IT

    ⚫ White body with a distinctive black hood and face
    🔴 Bright red bill with a black tip and red eye-ring
    🦵 Pink legs and a compact body
    🏖️ Usually seen running along sandy beaches near the water’s edge

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Hooded Plovers lay their eggs directly on the sand, where they’re so well camouflaged they’re almost impossible to see. That’s why many Australian beaches have fenced-off nesting areas to help protect them.