Piping plovers are back nesting at the beaches at Presqu’ile Provincial Park in Brighton for the summer.
Park staff have confirmed the return of the rare and endangered birds and are asking for the public’s help to give the species the best chance for success this season.
Plovers have made their way to Brighton the last three years and on and off the last decade or so – but prior to 2016, the small migratory shorebirds hadn’t returned to nest along Presqu’ile’s beaches since the early 1900s.
With the arrival of the birds, park staff are asking residents and visitors to stay out of fenced-off areas – and when walking along the shoreline, people are asked to pass the fencing area without stopping.
The birds also need space to forage for food along the shoreline.
What’s more, officials are asking residents not to feed the gulls or other wildlife, ensure trash goes into garbage receptacles in the parking lot area, and keep dogs off the sandy beaches at all times.
Park wardens said they continue to monitor the area closely and are asking all to be respectful and follow park rules and regulations.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
