Piping Plover Showdown

During a survey for the ‪NY DEC Long Island Colonial Waterbird surveys, 23-24 summer intern Anna W. spotted an intense plover brawl on South Beach. It looks like two distinct plover groups are in a serious territorial debate. Based on the fierce fighting, we believe these birds are either prospecting for a nesting location or have recently started a new nest, moving in on a pair that is already established with a nest.

From the Field, Video Snippet, Anna White, June 18, 2024