Shorebird Season Reminders
Shorebird Season Reminders
Bald Head Island is a designated Global Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, and we are lucky to share the island with over 200 species of birds. Species of special concern including Wilson’s Plovers, Least Terns, and American Oystercatchers use the beaches of BHI as important mating and nesting habitat. These shorebirds nest directly on the sand or in shell rakes, and their eggs are camouflaged well in shallow scrapes. It is important to give these birds lots of space during this time to incubate their nests and raise their chicks.
Least Tern eggs camouflaged in a nest
Signage indicating shorebird nesting areas
Shorebird nesting season runs from March 1st to August 31st, and the nesting areas are actively managed during this time by signage and monitoring. The BHI Conservancy protects shorebird nesting sites by posting and roping off areas and contributing data about species presence, abundance and nesting to state and federal agencies. A popular nesting site is roped off between Access 9 and 11 in front of the dunes so please do not walk through this area or the dunes behind it to access the beach; instead use the designated beach accesses. Thank you for sharing the beach with nesting shorebirds!
What can you do to help nesting shorebirds?
- Stay out of the roped areas and give birds plenty of space to nest. If a bird is having a reaction to your presence (calling loudly, diving, running away), then you are too close.
- Keep dogs on leash and away from birds.
- Do not chase after birds or allow your dog to chase them. This causes birds unnecessary stress and takes away vital energy they need for protecting their nest.
- Watch your step – shorebirds nest directly on the sand and may nest outside of designated areas.
- Call our Wildlife Hotline (910)-269-3433 if you find a nest outside of the designated area. Do not pick up any eggs, chicks, or birds.
