Protecting Our Feathered Friends: A Collaborative Effort for Shorebird Conservation

This month, we had the privilege of welcoming Wildlife Biologist Casey Pendergast from the New York Department of Environmental Conservation. Casey, a dedicated expert in her field, collaborated with us to contribute to the crucial statewide census: Long Island Colonial Waterbird surveys. This initiative aims to evaluate and monitor the breeding populations of state- and federally-listed species, including American Oystercatchers, Piping Plovers, Terns & Skimmers, in New York every three years.

The work we are engaged in with NY DEC is of utmost importance for the conservation of our shorebird populations. These surveys provide essential data that aids in understanding the trends and dynamics of these species’ populations, playing a critical role in informing conservation strategies and management decisions aimed at safeguarding these birds and their habitats.

Waterbird species, such as the American Oystercatcher, Terns & Skimmers, and Piping Plovers, face numerous threats to their survival. Habitat loss due to coastal development, disturbance from human activities, pollution, and climate change-induced impacts are among the significant challenges confronting these birds. The decline in their populations not only disrupts the balance of our ecosystems but also reflects broader environmental degradation that affects us all.

As stewards of conservation, we are committed to making a difference in protecting these vulnerable species and their habitats. We are very excited to collaborate with Casey and participate in the Long Island Colonial Waterbird surveys. By actively engaging in data collection and monitoring, we contribute to the broader scientific understanding of waterbird populations and support informed conservation actions.

Field Observations:

Our recent surveys have yielded exciting results, including the observation of several nests, chicks, and eggs. Notably, we observed 8 adult Piping Plovers and 3 chicks at Airfield Beach, as well as multiple Least Tern nests with active eggs near Isabella. These findings highlight the importance of our conservation efforts and provide valuable data for ongoing and future initiatives.

Through our collective efforts, we aspire to enact positive change for the benefit of our waterbird populations and the ecosystems they inhabit. By raising awareness, advocating for protective measures, and implementing conservation initiatives, we strive to mitigate the threats facing these species. Our work not only impacts the present but also lays the foundation for a sustainable future where these magnificent birds can thrive.