ROCK PLATFORMS

Containing pools of water and loose rocks, provide habitat for many plants and animals.

Leave rockpool animals and plants in the water

Return and overturned rocks to their original position. Animals and plants will die if left exposed to the sun.

SEAGRASS BEDS

Are sub-tidal yet often exposed.

In appropriate boating practice can cause damage to seagrass beds. Anchors, propellers and swing mooring chains can damage seagrasses if dragged across seagrass beds. Digging for bait among beds can also cause damage.

COASTAL SALTMARSHES AND MANGROVES

These areas are important habitats for wading birds, and other animals. Mangroves are able to survive in thick airless mud using special breathing roots.

Appreciate saltmarshes and mangrove forests from a distance. They are sensitive to trampling and take a long time to recover.

SAND DUNES

Are held together by the plants that grow on them. They are extremely sensitive to foot and vehicle traffic. Once the vegetation is removed there is little to prevent the sand from blowing away.

Avoid damage to sand dune plants by walking on the tracks when going to or from the beach.

Make sure all vehicles are also driven and parked in designated areas.

Use the beach not the sand dunes when picnicking or playing.

SENSITIVE HABITATS