Warning to Aussie drivers after tiny roadside discovery: ‘Please be mindful’
Aussie drivers are urged to stay alert as vulnerable chicks venture out this summer
Whitsundays, Australia, Bush Stone-curlew, Wildlife, Chicks
Whitsundays: Australians are being reminded to keep an eye out while driving this summer. With baby birds like bush stone-curlews starting to explore their surroundings, they can easily wander onto roads and become vulnerable.
This week, a wildlife advocate from the Whitsundays shared a warning on social media. She highlighted that these little birds are on the move and can often be found near roads. It’s a crucial time for them, and drivers need to be extra cautious.
She posted a picture of a tiny chick, no bigger than a hand, wandering close to a parked car. It’s a reminder that these little ones are just starting their journey and need our help to stay safe.
Sean Dooley from Bird Life Australia chimed in, stressing the importance of leaving wildlife alone when spotted. If you see an injured animal, it’s best to report it to the right authorities instead of trying to help yourself.
He explained that bush stone-curlews are ground-dwelling birds that rely on their camouflage. So, if you spot a chick on the ground, it’s not lost; it’s where it’s meant to be. The parents are usually nearby, keeping a watchful eye.
Recently, a local woman found a bush stone-curlew chick and its protective mother on the road, which sparked the warning. While these birds are more common in northern Australia, they face challenges in the south, where they’re considered endangered.
Breeding season runs from July to January, and that’s when the chicks start to venture out. Dooley advises that unless there’s immediate danger, it’s best to leave them be. The parents will return to check on and feed them if needed.
Interestingly, while they face threats in some areas, these birds are thriving in parts of Brisbane, despite the presence of predators like foxes and domestic pets.
Locals online echoed Dooley’s message, urging others to keep their cats indoors to protect these vulnerable chicks. They’re beautiful creatures, and it’s essential to watch out for them.
In some regions of Queensland, bush stone-curlews are listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss and predation. Urban development and introduced predators like foxes and feral cats have significantly impacted their populations.
While they’re still relatively common in the north, their numbers are declining in the south and east, where they’re classified as endangered. It’s a tough situation for these unique birds, and every little bit of awareness helps.