Fri, 22 Sep 2023 07:23:18 GMT (1695367398246)

bd141c89efbf673a1d26a42918f665d3766776aa

dbfecc9f0097303f9b240d0b637e7425f34552ad

News
Weather
Veterans
Game Center
Chime In
Watch

Now

56

Fri

78

Sat

68

Snowy plovers begin nesting season in March, beachgoers urged to help protect them

by KATU Staff

Tue, March 14th 2023, 5:49 PM UTC

Snowy plover chicks via the OPRD

According to to Oregon State Parks: "The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed western snowy plovers as a threatened species in 1993, when officials counted only 55 breeding adults. The numbers of breeding adults have steadily increased since then, from 107 in 2003 to 604 in 2021. The increase in plover numbers in recent years has resulted in nesting occurring in new or historical nesting sites, including at Sand Lake Recreation Area. Like last year, visitors to Sand Lake may see roped off areas near the lake’s inlet to protect active nests, and may encounter plovers on the beach. Beachgoers are encouraged to protect these birds by limiting recreation activities to wet sand areas near the water's edge, staying out of roped off nesting areas, packing all trash out, and keeping dogs on leash." (OPRD)

“We appreciate everyone's help, it's making a difference,” said Cindy Burns, Siuslaw National Forest wildlife biologist. “Research shows us that humans play an important role in the long-term success of the western snowy plover; if we can minimize our impact, this species has a greater chance of thriving.” (USDA Forest Service)

VIEW ALL PHOTOS

View All Photos

Snowy plover chicks via the OPRD

Loading ...