It may be time for the Summer Olympics, but beach-nesting birds are not meant to be a spectator sport. This photo is from one our staff, Sam, and shows how unfortunately some people cannot respect private property or basic conservation guidelines as they felt this was the perfect spot to set up for the day.
Our beaches are not free for alls or zoos. Those that are open to the public all have clearly defined rules and ordinances from the municipality and/or state. In this case, this was a private beach with trespassers disobeying posted guidelines. Shorebirds and terns need space and respect in order to be successful. Even as monitors we only move in and out of the area, and do not set up camp on top of them for hours on end. These wild animals are given a small amount of space as a bare minimum, and we have to remember that they move in and out of exclosures and string fencing, too. It does not take much kindness to share the shore and be respectful at all times.
Scott Kruitbosch
AAfCW Volunteer Coordinator
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