Introduction
Hays Inlet is a Ramsar site, which means it is internationally recognised as providing habitat for migratory waders including the Bar-tailed Godwit, the Eastern Curlew and flocks of Sandpipers. Many other birds are year around residents that inhabit the wetlands and intertidal flats. They include the Darter, the Pied Oyster Catcher and the Black-winged Stilt.
Although many bird species utilise the mangrove forest there are a number of species totally dependent on it including the Mangrove Kingfisher, the Mangrove Honeyeater and the Mangrove Warbler. The saltmarsh has its own characteristic bird populations including White Faced Herons, Royal Spoonbills and the common Ibis. A pair of Jabirus inhabits the lagoons associated with the western side of Hays Inlet. One of the most notable birds and an icon for the area is the Pelican which can be seen roosting on the light posts of the Houghton Highway Bridge. Other prominent birds in the area are the raptors, Brahminy Kites and Ospreys, which can be seen hovering over the wetlands and flats
Although many bird species utilise the mangrove forest there are a number of species totally dependent on it including the Mangrove Kingfisher, the Mangrove Honeyeater and the Mangrove Warbler. The saltmarsh has its own characteristic bird populations including White Faced Herons, Royal Spoonbills and the common Ibis. A pair of Jabirus inhabits the lagoons associated with the western side of Hays Inlet. One of the most notable birds and an icon for the area is the Pelican which can be seen roosting on the light posts of the Houghton Highway Bridge. Other prominent birds in the area are the raptors, Brahminy Kites and Ospreys, which can be seen hovering over the wetlands and flats
Hays Inlet Bird Surveys
1ince 2015, There have been quarterly surveys conducted in the Silcock Street reserve in Hays Inlet and as at 31st January 2021, there has been 129 different species of bird sighted in the surrounding catchment area. Click here for more information on the surveys and an updated bird list including seasonal sightings.
Wading birds of Hays Inlet
Hays Inlet is a roosting and feeding site for many species of wading birds including international waders such as the critically endangered Eastern Curlew. Many of these birds can be seen on the intertidal flats of Hays Inlet.
Wetland Birds of Hays Inlet
The wetland areas of Hays inlet are dominated by mangroves and saltmarsh pans along with pastures of marine couch. The mangrove forests form a barrier along the foreshore and waterways. They provide habitat for invertebrates and fish as well as birdlife.
Birds of the Waterways
The waterways within Hays Inlet are comprised of lagoons, creeks and man-made drainage channels. They provide habitat for fish, aquatic insects and other freshwater insects. Along with aquatic vegetation the waterways provide food for many birds including ducks, herons and rails. Kingfishers including the remarkably beautiful Azure Kingfisher can often be seen perching on overhanging vegetation waiting to pounce on the bounty of fish life.
.The Redcliffe Environmental Forum acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country in and around Moreton Bay and the Redcliffe Peninsula, and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. It pays respect to them and their cultures, and to Elders both past, present and emerging..