Dock Lake 2024-25 Bird Surveys

Read the full report Dock Lake Bird Surveys 2024-25 Review

Dock Lake has shown itself a vital haven for wetland birds in the Wimmera. Over 12 months of monitoring (July 2024 – June 2025), surveys have recorded an impressive 40 species of wetland birds, including threatened and migratory species, across six survey sites.

Changing Waters, Changing Wings

As water levels dropped through summer, the lake’s exposed mudflats became a magnet for birds. February 2025 saw a record 2,608 birds, with densities reaching 38 birds per hectare — a remarkable figure for an inland wetland.

Who Was Spotted?

• Waterfowl were the most abundant group, led by Grey Teal, with notable sightings of Freckled Duck and Australasian Shoveler (both threatened species).
• Fish-eating birds like Australian Pelicans and White-bellied Sea-Eagles made regular appearances.
• Shorebirds, including Red-necked Stints and Bar-tailed Godwits, highlighted Dock Lake’s role as a stopover for international migratory species.

Breeding & Biodiversity

• Silver Gulls and Australian Shelducks were observed breeding at the lake.
• White-bellied Sea-Eagles, a threatened species, were seen multiple times — including juveniles, suggesting nearby nesting.

Why It Matters

Dock Lake supports:

• High bird densities in a compact area
• Threatened and migratory species protected under international agreements
• Critical habitat during dry periods when other wetlands may be less viable

Conclusion

With water still present in June 2025 and winter rains on the horizon, Dock Lake is set to remain a key wetland refuge for the region’s birdlife.