We are so excited to have the Piping Plovers back on local beaches! Endangered in the state of Maine, these birds require plenty of space in order to build their nests and raise their families. Human disturbance, roaming dogs, and wandering cats are among the top threats to their survival. Fortunately, there are many ways for people to contribute to conservation efforts to help these birds.
This year, local pet owners will have the opportunity to take our Pets for Plovers pledge, and show their love of Maine’s wildlife with complementary dog bandanas and other gear. Members of the Pets for Plovers team pledge to spend quality time with pets away from beaches when possible, leash dogs on beaches where they are allowed, and provide an indoor-only lifestyle for cats—this keeps our pets and the plovers safe!
Cats are exposed to a number of deadly threats in the outdoors, including other cats, foxes and other predators, vehicles, harsh weather, and disease, just to name a few! Luckily, there are many wonderful strategies cat-owners can use to give their feline family members an adventurous, enriching, and safe life, all within the walls of their home.
Piping Plovers can only nest on broad, sandy beaches. While spotting one on the beach can be a special and exciting experience, plovers are best viewed from a distance of at least 100 feet due to their sensitive nature. Even dogs who do not attack wildlife can split up plover families. While many beach-goers can identify a dog who is friendly and gentle, plovers cannot! To a Piping Plover, any dog, cat, or human who comes too close is seen as a deadly threat to themselves and their babies. Parent plovers are frightened into leaving their eggs or their chicks, or waste precious energy reserves trying to flee from the threat.
Pet owners are an integral part of our conservation efforts. For more information on how you can simultaneously care for your pet and help endangered species, visit petsforplovers.org. Follow us on Instagram @ MaineCoastalBirdsProject for updates on our local Piping Plover population and Pets for Plovers resources.
