SCCF shorebird team monitoring plover nests
As of May 5, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation staff and volunteers were monitoring three snowy plover nests on the east end of Sanibel. After losing nests to wash-over and depredation, two of the pairs recently re-nested.
Staff also assist Florida Shorebird Alliance partners by surveying nesting sites off Sanibel, including North Captiva, Bunche Beach and Fort Myers Beach. Late last month, a snowy plover nest hatched on Bunche Beach. Snowy plovers tend to move around, and birds that were banded on the islands often nest at nearby sites.
In addition, a banded snowy plover — which the SCCF calls “White/Black” — returned to Sanibel after spending the winter north of Lee County. Until three weeks ago, it appeared that he had found a mate and was prepared to nest on Outback Key near Fort Desoto in Pinellas County. Surprisingly, he returned to Sanibel on April 30.
The SCCF reported that White/Black was a 2020 fledgling from the east end of Sanibel, and its shorebird monitors are anxious to see where he decides to nest.
The SCCF will continue to work with partners, including the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Lee County Parks and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, to ensure the nests and broods are protected.