On the Beach—Plovers, Terns, & Other Shorebirds: All Ages
Program Leader: Rachel Speckenbach, South Fork Natural History Museum (SOFO) Environmental Educator
Piping plovers, a New York State endangered species, come to breed and nest on our shores in late April. Least terns, commonly mistaken for the endangered plover, are a threatened species in the State and arrive mid-May to nest in large colonies among the plovers. Both species make a “scrape” in the sand to lay their eggs and raise their young. This method leaves chicks incredibly vulnerable to off-road vehicles and beach activity. While these birds have a bad reputation due to beach closures and fenced-off areas, they are important members of our coastal ecosystems. Join Rachel to learn more about these beautiful animals and why it’s important to protect them. We are likely to spot other shorebirds as well. Please bring a pair of binoculars if you have them, as SOFO has a limited amount to lend. Participants MUST have their own Southampton beach permit to attend.
Please note that, as mandated by the latest State Executive Order regarding COVID-19 safety precautions, our outdoor nature walks are limited to a maximum of 25 people which includes our staff. SOFO will at all times follow stringent six-feet distancing separation protocols required by the Department of Health for the safety of our participants and environmental educators. We will provide masks and gloves for all attendees.
Advanced reservations are required for all events. To register for this walk, which is limited to 10 people please contact us at [email protected]. Spots will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis, and we will confirm your reservation by email.