Snowy plover chicks are hatching again at Coal Oil Point Reserve!

Our last count on Friday, May 2nd, revealed 10 plover nests and 3 chicks
(hatched Monday, April 28th.

The snowy plover is a threatened species. Nesting on the open sand makes them
very vulnerable. Often their eggs and chicks are at risk of being stepped on or
destroyed by unknowing beach users or off leash dogs.

The Snowy Plover Docent Program (SPDP) was started in 2001 to assist
with the protection of the Snowy Plovers at Coal Oil Point Reserve, and to raise
awareness in the community of the importance of the preservation of this
species and its habitat.

The commitment of each Plover Docent volunteer has contributed toward the
success of recovering the nesting population at Coal Oil Point. Each docent
plays a crucial role in the protection of the plovers by educating beach users
about this threatened species and what they can do to improve the chances for
the plovers' survival. Docents provide a personal and friendly contact for
beach users. They promote public interest and understanding, and in turn,
dramatically increase the effectiveness of other plover/tern management
efforts at the Reserve.

Can you spare 2 hours per week? If so, you could make a significant contribution
as a Volunteer Docent or an Intern for the Snowy Plover Docent Program.

JOIN US!
The next training is

*Saturday, May 10th, 9AM-1:30PM*

To register, please contact the Program Coordinator, Jennifer Stroh:
office: 805-893-3703
vcml: 805-880-1195
stroh@lifesci.ucsb.edu

http://coaloilpoint.ucnrs.org