We have received multiple reports of birdwatchers acting inappropriately within the birdwatching route, specifically around the critically endangered Orange-bellied Parrots and Australasian Bitterns currently occupying WTP.

We understand that the presence of these rare species at the site provides birdwatchers with an exciting opportunity to view these birds in the wild. However, a disappointing increase in unacceptable conduct from some members of the birdwatching community at WTP is causing continual disruption of the birds’ wild behaviours.

The observed unacceptable conduct includes:

• Entering areas on foot and vehicle that are closed to permit holders, specifically tracks marked with ‘ROAD CLOSED’ signs
• Flushing birds out by not maintaining appropriate distance when viewing or photographing them
• Luring birds by feeding seed
• The use of ‘call-back’ on mobile phones to attract the interest of birds

These behaviours present an increased safety risk to both species and personnel on site, prevent the birds from foraging and flocking effectively, and damage sensitive threatened saltmarsh/wetland flora communities.

Expected birdwatching conduct at WTP

Please familiarise yourself with both the WTP Bird-watching Route Map and the WTP Birdwatching access conditions and hazards document. These documents outline the route and conduct birdwatchers must comply with when on site. Melbourne Water reserves the right to immediately cancel the permit of anyone not complying with these conditions.

To ensure the safety and health of these species is maintained please:

• Abide by the prescribed speed limit of 30km/hr or as per designated signage
• Follow the instructions on all signage, including the ‘ROAD CLOSED’ signs
• DO NOT ENTER areas you are not permitted to enter; a ‘ROAD CLOSED’ sign means an area is closed to foot traffic as well as vehicle traffic.
• Do not provide food to any wildlife on site
• Do not use any form of ‘call-back’ to attract the interest of birds

Additional monitoring

Extra monitoring of the known locations of both species, and birdwatcher conduct, will occur over the coming weeks. Contact us to report any inappropriate behaviours.