Distribution and habitat of Pied Oystercatchers (Haematopus longirostris) inhabiting ocean beaches in northern New South Wales

Abstract

An assessment of the distribution and habitat requirements of Pied Oystercatchers (Haematopus longirostris) was conducted along a 137-km stretch of coastline between Cudgen Creek and the Clarence River in northern New South Wales. The study area was divided into 11 sites. The number of oystercatchers present at each site was sampled on a regular basis between July 1996 and August 1997. The physical and biological characteristics of survey sites were also assessed.

Oystercatchers were patchily distributed within the study area, with most birds showing a preference for beaches with a south-easterly aspect situated to the south of the Richmond River. Individuals inhabiting beaches north of the Richmond River appeared to be associated with estuaries. The distribution and abundance of oystercatchers was correlated with several variables including the density and length of Pipis (Donax deltoides), the density of raptors and Torresian Crows (Corvus orru), and beach length. The density of humans and 4WD vehicles appeared to have no significant influence on the distribution of oystercatchers during this survey.