Piping Plovers, Least Terns, and American Oystercatchers return to the shores of Connecticut in early to mid-March, where they rest, breed, and raise their young during the summer months. The same beaches that we look to for fun and recreation serve as a nursery for tiny, threatened shorebird chicks.

You can help protect birds by limiting human disturbance to crucial nesting areas!

One way we're able to do this is by installing string fencing and signage around the areas on beaches where birds typically nest. They build their nests directly in the sand in small "scrapes," barely noticeable to the human eye. If people or dogs get too close, the parent may abandon the nest out of fear. Our birds depend on these safe spaces to raise a family!

String Fencing Volunteer Dates *Cancelled* - But You Can Still Help Protect Birds!

*As of March 18, staff with be installing string fencing without the help of volunteers. We are taking this precaution to keep our volunteers safe, and suggest practicing "social distancing" even in the outdoors.*

Once it is safe to visit beaches, it is still important to respect the string fencing and give nesting birds and their young plenty of space. Athought our world may be standing still right now, the birds' breeding and nesting patterns will not delay. Click here for details on how you can #ShareTheShore, and encourage others to do the same!

Please email us at ctwaterbirds@gmail.com if you have questions. Thank you!