The second of two oystercatcher eggs hatched on Mount Main Beach last night, despite all the odds against them.

The nest has survived hundreds of summer holiday makers, beach volleyball games, dogs who are not allowed on this beach, the nightly beach groomer and New Year's Eve.

Now comes the tough part.

The parents can protect their eggs easier than protecting their chicks, which will start exploring their beachscape.

It's about six weeks before they're ready to fly.

There are many risks ahead for this young family.

Read here about the first chick's hatching.