- April 25, 2024
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American oystercatcher adult with chick. Courtesy photo
Least tern chick. Courtesy photo
Wilson’s plover chick. Courtesy photo.
Dog harasses bird on Disappearing Island. Photo by Michael Brothers
By: Volusia County Community Information
Nearly a dozen threatened shorebirds hatched in southeast Volusia County over the past week. Their timing was unfortunate as the flightless chicks had to contend with increased human activity, loose dogs and even fireworks over the holiday weekend. This raised fears that the birds might abandon their nests or even worse – be killed by dogs.
Birdwatchers have spotted several least tern and Wilson’s plover chicks in Smyrna Dunes Park and Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park in New Smyrna Beach, as well as on Disappearing Island, a popular boaters’ destination near Ponce Inlet.
Another protected species, American oystercatchers, have hatched at least six chicks on the islands around the Dunlawton Bridge, including the critical wildlife area island across from the boat ramp under the bridge.
The chicks will remain flightless for about three weeks before they can fly on their own.
Because shorebirds are protected by state and federal laws, Volusia County’s Environmental Management Division has posted a barrier and Do Not Enter signs on Disappearing Island and in Smyrna Dunes Park advising people and pets to stay out of the posted areas. Additionally, signs have been posted at Bethune Beach, which does not allow dogs.
Since shorebirds lay their eggs directly on the sand and the flightless chicks will run only on the sand until they can fly, they’re no match for frolicking people and playful dogs that can destroy a nesting colony in moments. If the adult birds are frightened, they may fly off and leave the eggs exposed to predators and prolonged sun exposure.
“If you see people entering the posted area or letting dogs run off leash in the vicinity of the posted area, gently let them know their actions may harm the birds and that the eggs and small chicks are camouflaged and difficult to see,” said Jennifer Winters, Volusia County’s protected species manager. “With the holiday weekend, we expect that people will be using fireworks, which can cause the birds to abandon nests and leave eggs or chicks unprotected. Please leave fireworks at home and do not use them on the beaches or islands.”
Fireworks are prohibited on Volusia County beaches per Beach Code Ordinance 20-125.
If people disturb the birds, report their activities to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s wildlife alert hotline at 888-404-3922, #FWC or *FWC on a cellphone, or by texting [email protected]. Residents can also report unposted nests to the hotline.
