Mud Islands have been recognised by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as a Ramsar “wetland of international importance” and have also been included on the Register of the National Estate.
The islands, lagoon and the 2500 metres squared surrounding the islands are protected as part of the new Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park managed by Parks Victoria.
They provide important habitat and feeding areas for migratory birds from as far away as Japan and Siberia, as well as local seashore and wader species.
The islands form an essential breeding area for colonies of Pelicans, Ibis, Terns, Cormorants, Royal Spoonbills, Storm-Petrels and Silver Gulls.
The seagrass meadows provide food, protection, breeding and nursery areas for a multitude of marine organisms and are extremely important to Port Phillip Bays’ ecological health.
The vegetation on the dunes, salt marshes, sandbanks and mud flats are similar to many other areas around the bay except for Australian Hollyhock, which is only found in a few small areas around Victoria.
Honestly guys, there are plenty of flat water spots to head to without jeopardising kiting by going to a place thats a known bird sanctuary. No good can come of this...
