The initial dedication of the reserve in 1971 covered Muttonbird Island (approximately 8 hectares) and was for the conservation and study of seabirds. Little Muttonbird Island was added to the reserve in 2005.
Wedge-tailed shearwaters (Puffinus pacificus), or muttonbirds, breed annually on both islands in the reserve. These birds are listed under international agreements for the protection of migratory birds, as are a number of other birds which frequent the reserve. The reserve also provides habitat for threatened species including the black-winged petrel.
The reserve is within the area of the Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal People who named Muttonbird Island “Giidayn Miirral” meaning moon-sacred place. Muttonbird Island is of mythological and symbolic importance to local Aboriginal people.
The reserve provides a unique opportunity to observe a wedge-tailed shearwater rookery at close quarters. A walking track, lookouts and information signs have been constructed on Muttonbird Island.
Photo: Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve / Shane Ruming
