Have you ever counted cockles before they hatch ?
Really difficult because they are ‘spat’ before emerging as cockles.
Seriously though, COCKLE COUNTERS are wanted to count cockles in the estuary.
The Avon Heathcote Estuary Trust Board is conducting a cockle survey on the 27th/28th March 2021, (THIS weekend) from 9am to noon.
In order to carry out the survey the Board need volunteers and is hoping you may be able to assist.
It involves shallow digging out (10cm deep) of small square, counting and measuring cockles in that space.
This is repeated six times by each group. It should not take more than 1 – 2 hours.
All that is needed by volunteers is gumboots….everything else like gloves and safety gear is provided, and survey sites are between the jetty at South Brighton Park and the end of the Spit.
The importance of such counts is a reflection of the health of the estuary as well as the humble cockle.
Cockle counting will give you an opportunity to learn about the cockle and the estuary, meet other cockle counters, and you might see the odd mullet and flounder.
It is also about making a contribution to maintaining the ecology of the area you live in, and it is expected many South Brighton and Southshore residents will be keen to add to the cockle information within their estuary backyards.
All potential volunteers please email name and contact details to: newbrightonresidents@gmail.com