Central Coast Council has joined forces with WIRES to protect around six fledgling cormorants near Empire Bay wharf.
WIRES spokesperson John Grant said the fledglings were walking into an off-leash dog park and locals were increasingly concerned as dogs were chasing the birds.
“They were luckily making it back up into the tree with their parents – however it was feared it was only a matter of time before one or more wouldn’t make it to the safety of the tree,” he said.
“As the area is part of a Council off-leash dog park the only solution was to cordon off a section to protect the fledglings.
“A local community member, along with local WIRES volunteer, Sonya Aizina, sent photos to Council and asked if an appropriate area could be fenced off in the short term.
“Council was absolutely wonderful and listened to the concerns about the fledglings being at risk and arrived the very next morning to safely cordon off the area until the birds are ready to leave the nest.
“In particular the WIRES Central West branch would like to thank Council Customer Service team member Jeanette, who organised for Rick Gatt, Section Manager for Parks and Reserves, to attend to install star pickets and the orange plastic barrier to keep the birds safe.
“This collaboration between community, Council and WIRES has ensured the protection of these unique native seabirds which helps to maintain the Central Coast’s reputation as place to both live in and to visit for its abundance of native wildlife.”
Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said it was very rewarding to see that Council’s Customer Service and Open Spaces team members were able to help find a solution and respond immediately to WIRES and local community concerns.