Be mindful: Shorebird chicks are on the move
In recent weeks, three snowy plover nests and one Wilson’s plover nest have hatched on Sanibel, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported. Staff and volunteers are busy monitoring brood locations and educating beach-goers about the birds and how to safely and respectfully observe them.
Photographers looking to get photos of snowy plover chicks should always keep a good distance from the birds, remove litter that attracts predators such as crows, and wrap up the photo session in 10 minutes. For more guidance, visit http://www.sccf.org/our-work/shorebirds/photographing-shorebirds.
Snowy plover chicks are precocial, meaning they are feathered and up and running within hours of hatching. They do not stay inside the posted areas around the nests. When visiting Sanibel’s east end, remember that we are guests in the home of snowy plovers and sea turtles and always be respectful.
Keep pets leashed at all times, pick up any trash and never feed wildlife. Feeding gulls and crows attracts these predators to sensitive nesting areas. Watch your step, as snowy plover chicks are very tiny and tend to crouch down and hide in the wrack when they feel threatened, SCCF officials reported.
If you see a shorebird nest that has not yet been roped off, contact shorebirds@sccf.org.