SCCF: Successful start for snowy plover season
On May 16, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that the second snowy plover nest of the season had hatched on Sanibel, bringing the total to six hatchlings this year since April. Last year, five snowy plover chicks reached fledgling age on the island.
SCCF shorebird staff said the aftermath of Hurricane Ian may be working in the plovers’ favor.
“Since Hurricane Ian, there have been significantly less people, dogs and boats on the beach in comparison to previous years,” shorebird technician Aaron Whit said. “These birds have been almost entirely unbothered across their territories — including from other nesting plovers — which has allowed them to grow incredibly fast.”
In addition, the storm altered beach habitat by forming gullies, which accumulate water and attract insects for plovers to feed on.
“It’s a bit of a silver lining situation, as these gullies pose risks for humans and other wildlife,” he said.
OLDEST CHICKS FLEDGE
The SCCF reported that the first three chicks to hatch in April have already reached fledgling age. Their father, known by his band combination of “White/Blue,” has fledged at least one chick per year since he was banded on Sanibel in 2019.
“White/Blue is our resident super-dad — he’s taken terrific care of the three chicks,” White said. “Hopefully they will go on to be great parents just like him.”
The fledged chicks were recently banded with unique color combinations as part of a long-term research project tracking the birds’ survival and movements after they leave the islands.
“Band resights give the team info on where these birds winter and where they nest in upcoming breeding seasons,” he said. “Fledglings from Sanibel sometimes return to nest on the island, while others have been documented nesting at other beaches along the Gulf, including Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Caladesi Island, Bunche Beach and Fort Myers Beach.”
The SCCF has been monitoring nesting snowy plovers on Sanibel for over 20 years. All snowy plovers are captured and handled by trained biologists operating under state and federal research permits.
Help protect beach-nesting wildlife, including shorebirds and sea turtles, by being a conscious beach-goer. Respect posted areas, keep pets on leashes and pick up all trash, including food items. Discarded food can attract predators to nesting areas, putting eggs and chicks at risk.
For more tips on coexisting with shorebirds, visit https://sancaplifesavers.org/shorebirds/.