Connecticut Audbon Society

Share the beach…

As the weather heats up in June many of Connecticut’s birds quiet down. You may hear less singing in your yard and see fewer species at some of our sanctuaries. However, this does not mean they are gone. Breeding season is in full swing and maintaining a low profile helps to ensure the protection of the nest. Tending to eggs and then young birds is the priority. This is exactly the case on Connecticut’s beaches as the state threatened Piping Plovers fight to safeguard eggs and nestlings from high tides, predators, and thousands of beachgoers. The small shorebird’s global population is only just over 6,000 birds.

Piping Plovers

Piping Plovers enjoy the same beaches as us. Be mindful of their presence and please obey the posted guidelines if you are visiting a nesting beach.

Connecticut Audubon Society works with Audubon Connecticut, the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection and the United States Fish & Wildlife Service as part of the Audubon Alliance to monitor Piping Plovers and other vulnerable beach-nesting birds. We help by educating the public on the species, assisting in the training of volunteer monitors, and working with towns and municipalities on their protection when the need arises. Our own Coastal Center at Milford Point is used as a training site as the species breeds there. When you head to the shore this season please keep in mind the struggle Piping Plovers face in raising their families. Be mindful of the birds as well as the string fencing and cages placed around nest sites. We thank you for your consideration and if you are interested we welcome you to join in Piping Plover monitoring activities.

Piping Plover nest and eggs

Piping Plover nests are well camouflaged and easily disturbed by recreational activities or off-leash dogs.

Text and bottom photo by Scott Kruitbosch, top photo by Twan Leenders.

 

 

 

 

 

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