Eagle Island has been closed to protect its birdlife including the crested tern. Photo: DETSI (Andrew McDougall, Heather Congram).
Eagle Island is closed to campers and day-trippers until 1 April 2026 as part of an annual push to ensure migratory birds can nest and raise their chicks without being disturbed.
Part of Lizard Island National Park, the island on Eyrie Reef is also used by resident and migratory shorebirds.
Three other islands in the northern Great Barrier Reef Coast Marine Park – Woody Island, Sisters Island and Taylor Cay – are closed until 1 March 2026.
The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) has asked boaties and campers to respect the annual breeding season closures.
It marks the first time Eagle Island has been closed to protect a variety of nesting seabirds including crested, lesser crested, bridled, roseate and black-naped terns.
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) conservation officer Julie Dutoit said the annual closures were part of the islands’ management plans.
“These birds can fly thousands of kilometres to nest on the reef islands, and we need to protect them at the most crucial breeding times,” Ms Dutoit said.
“The closures allow the birds to raise their chicks without human intervention, which provides a significant boost to nesting success rates.
“The islands are incredibly important for nature conservation, and the seasonal closures also help protect areas of the marine park.”
The islands will open in time for the Easter holidays in 2026. Fines can be issued to those who disregard the closures.
For more information, check the park alerts.
Lesser crested terns. Photo: DETSI (Andrew McDougall, Heather Congram).
