Lake Hindmarsh July 2025 Bird Survey

Date: 20 July 2025

Overview

As Dock Lake continues to recede under the grip of persistent dry conditions, its shrinking waters are reshaping the habitat and the birdlife it supports. The July 2025 survey, paints a vivid picture of adaptation and surprise. With water levels critically low, traditional survey sites were redefined, and bird activity concentrated along the remaining shorelines. No frog calls were recorded.

Bird Populations

Despite the challenging conditions, the lake hosted 279 individual birds across 11 species. The Grey Teal dominated the count with 141 individuals, maintaining its status as the lake’s most populous species. Interestingly, Red-kneed Dotterels surged to 62 individuals, marking a dramatic increase compared to previous surveys where they were rarely seen in double digits.

Other notable sightings included:

• Red-capped Plovers: 37 individuals, scattered along the northern and western shores.
• Red-necked Stints: 10 juveniles in non-breeding plumage, likely overwintering.
• Australian Shelduck: 16 individuals.

Survey Highlights

• Shorebird Surge: The influx of Red-kneed Dotterels and Red-capped Plovers suggests a shift in habitat use, possibly driven by exposed mudflats and reduced water coverage.
• Migratory Mystery: The presence of juvenile Red-necked Stints, a migratory species typically breeding in the northern hemisphere, underscores Dock Lake’s role as a refuge even in winter.

Summary Table

SITE	1	2	3	4	5	6	TOTAL
Australian Shelduck				16			16
Black-winged Stilt						2	2
Chestnut Teal				2			2
Grey Teal				141			141
Masked Lapwing						1	1
Red-capped Plover						37	37
Red-kneed Dotterel				62			62
Red-necked Avocet						2	2
Red-necked Stint						10	10
Silver Gull						4	4
Yellow-billed Spoonbill				2			2
TOTAL	–	–	–	223	–	56	279

Conclusion

July’s survey at Dock Lake reveals a wetland in flux—its waters vanishing, but its shores still teeming with life. The resilience of shorebirds and waterfowl in adapting to these changing conditions is a testament to the ecological importance of Dock Lake, even in its diminished state. As the seasons progress, continued monitoring will be vital to understanding how these shifts affect both resident and migratory species.

**Strict hygiene measures are in place to prevent contamination**