I have now located 5 active black oystercatcher nests, each with 1 to 3 eggs. Last year I was only aware of two nesting locations: Keepers House nest and the Energy building nest. For these two pairs at least, the number of eggs is the same this year as I saw hatched last year.  When I noticed the Keeper’s house pair, they had two young chicks (few days old), and this year two eggs. Later on I found the Energy House pair with only one egg (2 days old, 1 day old) and had assumed the other eggs were eaten but this year they also have only one egg. There is an additional pair of oystercatchers on the east side of the Jetty but I can’t find a nest.

Keeper’s House black oystercatcher peaking out from its nesting spot

Keeper’s House black oystercatcher’s two eggs on a nest made of small stones and shells.

Facility work

• cleaned the solar panels
• cleared vegetation from along the north and east electric fence
• worked on the compost bins, removed massive sow thistle and grasses, dispersed compost

Vessels

• Ecotourism: 19
• Private: 3
• Kayaks: 4
• Row boat: 1

Weather

Clear skies. Light and variable winds during the day, gentle westerly breeze in the evening. Daytime temperatures: low 10, high 15.

Another person and dog with good timing, living their best life.