“Share the Shore” may sound simple, but for nesting shorebirds, it can be lifesaving. Every summer, species like Wilson’s Plover, Snowy Plover, Least Tern and Black Skimmer raise their chicks on Texas beaches and coastal islands. These species lay their eggs directly on sand or shell beaches. Their nests are tiny, camouflaged, and incredibly vulnerable when near busy recreation areas where people, pets, vehicles, and noise can easily disturb them.
Audubon’s beach-nesting bird project brings together scientists, beach-lovers, and communities to help protect these birds during their most sensitive season. Our goal is straightforward: reduce human-caused disturbance so more chicks survive to fledge.
Throughout breeding season we find and monitor nests. We put up temporary signs and mark colonies for protection. Our team also shares information about how to enjoy the beach while helping birds thrive. That includes giving nesting birds at least 50 yards of space, respecting signs and fencing, keeping pets leashed and far from colonies, packing out trash to prevent predators, and avoiding driving on the beach near nests. These simple actions dramatically improve chick survival.
This project is part of a larger effort to protect beach-nesting birds across the Texas coast While our partners at American Bird Conservancy, Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program, Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, and Houston Audubon cover sites near Galveston and Corpus Christi, our team monitors and protect areas in and around Matagorda Bay.
By Alexis Baldera, Senior Manager, Coastal ProgramEach spring and summer, the Texas coast becomes a bustling nursery for some of our most iconic...
Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming, fishing, walking your dog, or boating, follow these tips to help protect birds and their babies on the beach.
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