Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere ReserveVictoria |
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 Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve
Location in Victoria
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| Established | November 2002 |
| Area | 2,142.00 km2 (827.0 sq mi) |
| Visitation | 400,000 (annual estimate) (in 2016) |
| Managing authorities | Western Port Biosphere Reserve |
| Website | Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve |
| Footnotes | Coordinates |
The Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve is a very special natural area in Victoria, Australia. It's like a huge outdoor classroom where people learn about nature and help protect it. This reserve includes land and water around the Mornington Peninsula and a big bay called Western Port.
Contents
What is a Biosphere Reserve?
A biosphere reserve is a unique place recognized by UNESCO. UNESCO is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. These reserves are chosen because they have important natural areas. They also show how people can live and work while protecting nature. It's all about finding a balance between people and the environment.
Where is This Special Place?
The Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve covers a large area. It includes all of the Mornington Peninsula Shire. It also covers parts of the City of Frankston. Plus, it includes coastal areas of Casey, Cardinia, and Bass Coast. This means it stretches across several local government areas.
Important Islands
Two important islands are part of this reserve. These are Phillip Island and French Island. Both islands are home to amazing wildlife.
Western Port Bay
A big part of the reserve is Western Port. This bay has huge, undisturbed mudflats. These mudflats are covered with special salt marsh plants. Western Port is considered very important around the world.
Why is Western Port So Important?
Western Port is a vital feeding and resting place for many birds. These birds are called waders. They visit during the summer months. Many of them fly all the way from other countries.
Migratory Birds
Some of these birds are protected by special agreements. These agreements are between Australia and countries like China and Japan. This shows how important Western Port is for birds that travel long distances.
Amazing Wildlife
Sometimes, more than 10,000 waders can be found here. You can also see over 10,000 ducks and swans. The bay is also home to many tiny creatures. There are about 1,380 different kinds of invertebrates living here. These small animals are a key food source for the birds.
When Was it Established?
The Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve was officially created in November 2002. Since then, efforts have been made to protect its unique environment.
Who Manages the Reserve?
The reserve is managed by a group called the Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation Ltd. This group is also known as the Western Port Biosphere Reserve. They work hard to protect the area and educate people about its importance.
