The Bay has provided a secure habitat for feeding and roosting. A number of factors both in Australia and overseas may affect migratory bird numbers. Australia is signatory to several international treaties to protect these species and habitat.
Some species living in or visiting Botany Bay can reach low numbers but subsequently recover.
However a notable and consistent decline has occurred in populations of small waders including the Double Banded Plover , the Red-necked Stint and the Curlew Sandpiper over the last 10 years. Double Banded Plovers are now in very low numbers and just above the 'vagrant' status in Botany Bay. The Curlew Sandpiper may also soon disappear in significant numbers in Botany Bay.