Marine and Coastal Discovery : Rakali by Night 24 Jan 2020 – Brighton

Description:

Event Description:

Marine and Coastal Discovery : Rakali by Night 24 Jan 2020 - BrightonBayside’s coastal reserves contain various communities of native vegetation and amazing wildlife along the foreshore and in the water.

Join the Friends of Native Wildlife Inc. to search for Rakali, Hydromys chrysogaster at Middle Brighton Pier, native rodents that feed often underwater to catch their prey. The Rakali are highly specialized amphibious mammals, especially adapted for aquatic life. Their broad, partially webbed feet help to propel them through the water while dense waterproof fur keeps them warm and dry. Their tail, which acts as a rudder, is long and thick and well covered by dark hair usually with a prominent white tip. 

After a 20 minute talk at our meeting place, we shall stroll along the pier towards the breakwater and be spread out into groups with a member of FoNW Inc. to watch for rakali and ask further questions.  Remember, wildlife choose when they wish to get up and have their meals, just like us.

We cannot guarantee their appearance and windy rough weather makes it difficult to see them. We hope for a warm balmy Melbourne evening.Age range 8 years to any age where you feel fit enough to walk on uneven surfaces at dusk and night time.  Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by an accompanying adult.

What to Bring ...

• Suitable clothing for weather conditions on the day BUT bring a jacket too as it can become quite cool and breezy once the sun goes down
• Torch to see the ground when walking back in the dark (with red cellophane or red bulb if wanting to use on the water as this colour is not seen by most mammals)
• Bottle of water
• Fly repellent
• Hat
• Sturdy Shoes - no thongs
• completed medical and indemnity forms - on the day
• an inquisitive nature and a happy disposition – you may even leave with a smile and fond memories !
• Binoculars
• Bayside residents to display their beach parking permit
• Non-Bayside residents to purchase a car park ticket 

Where to Meet ...

Middle Brighton Pier or 251 Esplanade, Brighton