The piping plover (Charadrius melodus) is a carnivorous bird that lives and feeds on the shores of the East Coast. These small birds, which only weigh up to 2.3 ounces, have a lifespan of around eleven years (U.S Fish and Wildlife Service). According to the American Bird Conservancy, an adult piping plover, “can be identified by its black-tipped orange bill, yellow-orange legs, black brow band, and incomplete black neck ring”. Even though the piping plover’s population has increased in recent years, this species remains threatened on the east coast. On Long Island, these birds breed “on dry sandy beaches or in areas that have been filled with dredged sand, often near dunes in areas with little or no beach grass,” according to theNew York Department of Environmental Conservation. They can be found on the North shore of Long Island, all the way from Queens to the Hamptons. The Piping Plover is an essential part of the ecosystem, but unfortunately they continue to be threatened due to habitat loss.
Habitat loss, according to the American Bird Conservancy, is the primary reason for the Piping Plover’s endangerment. Shoreline developments, like hotels and beachside homes, encroach on the birds’ habitat. Additionally, plastic and other waste accumulation on shorelines has made the birds’ homes unlivable. Furthermore, off-road vehicles commonly destroy habitats, crush eggs, and kill birds. The Piping Plovers are also more threatened because of rising human activity near their habitats, according to the Endangered Species Coalition. Human activity including littering attracts the birds’ predators and unmonitored pets also contribute to the increased predation on the birds. It is undeniable that these birds are threatened by humans’ harmful impact on the environment.
Piping Plovers are an integral part of the ecosystem in which they live. If they continue to remain threatened, serious consequences will occur. According to the American Bird Conservancy, Piping Plovers play an important role in controlling the insect and crustacean populations on beaches. If they were to go extinct, their prey populations would increase drastically, causing an imbalance within the ecosystem.
All hope is not lost for these birds. If we as a society make conscious efforts to change our ways we can reverse the damage we have done, and protect the Piping Plovers from further endangerment. When visiting the home of this species, simply being mindful of your surroundings can prevent habitat damage and loss. Other ways to help this effort include keeping Long Island beaches clean and litter-free. Keeping pets on leashes can further stop unintentional harm to the Piping Plovers. Overall, these seemingly small acts will not only benefit this one species of bird, but will also help the greater community.
