Perth’s iconic black swans are taking to seven new nesting sites on the South Perth foreshore like ducks to water.
The Djirda Miya, a black swan habitat, is vital for a colony of swans and their cygnets.
The City of South Perth’s natural areas team has been closely monitoring the new arrivals and their progress.
“It is immensely satisfying to see Djirda Miya providing improved habitat for native waterbirds while providing a retreat for birdwatching, breeding, ecology, and learning,” Mayor Greg Milner said.
“More than 20 years on from the State Government’s Bringing Back the Swans report, it’s amazing that after all of the hard work, lobbying and collaboration, the swans are actually coming back.”
Djirda Miya is a joint $1.9 million project between the City and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
It includes two vegetated headlands, a beach and a planted rock revetment east of Coode Street on the foreshore.
A 5m exclusion zone surrounds the habitat’s island to prevent fishing, swimmers and watercraft from landing on the island, and visitors have been asked to keep their distance.
Path markings and signage are in place to encourage cyclists and scooter riders to reduce their speed and be more aware of wildlife crossing. Dog owners must always keep their dogs on leads and maintain effective control to prevent conflict with other dogs, wildlife and people.
Photographers are also advised to follow DBCA’s wildlife photography guidelines to avoid disturbing the habitat.