Coastcare Issues
Seabirds and marine animals
Did you know that…
- Around 70% of coastal birds rescued by volunteer groups have fishing line entanglement or hook injuries and most of these have been accidentally hooked during active fishing.
- More than 2 million migratory shorebirds visit our shores and wetlands each summer.
- Seabirds and marine animals are at risk from our rubbish. It is estimated that chemicals, litter and sewage kill up to a million birds and 100,000 sea animals every year around the world.
Australia's unique coastline is home to a vast array and animals such as Bandicoots, dugongs, dolphins, penguins, sharks and a variety of seabirds. Some species are in need of protection and conservation, others in need of care and rehabilitation.
What can I do to help?
Join a Coastcare group and help injured or threatened seabirds, dolphins, Bandicoots and turtles. Only professionals should handle injured animals but volunteers can help out by cleaning, feeding, assisting and changing bandages.
Be sure to carefully dispose of any rubbish, particularly plastic debris and fishing tackle, when visiting the coast. Be aware of your surroundings when fishing to avoid accidental hooking of seabirds.
Keep your dogs on a leash when walking along the cost and keep cats indoors at night, so they can’t chase birds.
