Birds of the island

Hope you are all enjoying a wonderful and safe Easter break!

With eggs in mind, it is the perfect time to look at the incredible birdlife along the coast of Phillip Island. From the shy Hooded Plover to the powerful White-bellied Sea Eagle, the variety of species we encounter on our cruises is remarkable.

Hooded Plovers nest directly on sandy beaches, relying on camouflaged eggs to stay hidden. This makes them especially vulnerable to disturbance, which is why they are listed as a threatened species in Victoria. Around Rhyll, you will often see shorebirds like terns and plovers feeding on small marine invertebrates, building energy reserves for breeding or migration.

Along the cliffs of Cape Woolamai, species such as the Pacific Gull and Sooty Oystercatcher nest in rugged, exposed environments. Sharing these cliffs is the Peregrine Falcon, capable of diving at over 300 km per hour, making it the fastest animal on Earth.

Above it all, the Wedge-tailed Eagle soars effortlessly. These birds build enormous nests and can stay aloft for hours using rising air currents, often seen teaching their young to hunt along the coastline.

Each of these species plays an important role in the coastal ecosystem. As you enjoy the Easter break, take a moment to look a little closer. There is always something fascinating happening just above the waves.