1 Threats to Snowy Plovers and how we can minimize impact Ryan Hawkins Alabama Connections English 12 B January 1, 2023 2 Abstract Snowy Plovers are a threatened species under the endangered species act. This is largely caused by habitat loss as well as disturbance of nests from human activities on coasts. Snowy Plovers may even abandon their eggs if they feel threatened enough. Snowy Plovers are also impacted heavily by loose domesticated animals, mainly dogs and cats. We can minimize our impact on them by giving them more shoreline to nest, restricting pet access to beaches as well as preventing further habitat destruction. Keywords: Snowy Plover, Habitat Loss, Threatened species, Endangered Species Act 3 The Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus) is a small, sparrow-sized shorebird that is found along the coasts and in the inland deserts of the western United States. It is classified as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act due to habitat loss, disturbance from human activities, and predation by domestic animals. In this essay, we will explore the ways in which humans have affected the Snowy Plover's threatened species status and what can be done to help conserve this species. (About the western snowy plover. Audubon California. (2019, June 20). Retrieved January 1, 2023) One of the main threats to the Snowy Plover is habitat loss. As development and urbanization have increased along the coasts and in the inland deserts of the western United States, Snowy Plovers have lost much of their natural habitat. Beaches, dunes, and dry lake beds are all important habitats for Snowy Plovers, and these areas are often developed for residential, commercial, or recreational purposes. As a result, Snowy Plovers have less space to breed and forage, which can lead to a decline in population. (U.S. Department of the Interior. (n.d.). Western snowy plovers could face multiple threats from climate change (U.S. National Park Service). National Parks Service. Retrieved January 1, 2023) Another threat to the Snowy Plover is disturbance from human activities. Snowy Plovers are sensitive to disturbance and can be easily frightened away from their nesting sites. Beachgoers, off-road vehicles, and other forms of recreation can all disturb Snowy Plovers and disrupt their breeding and feeding habits. In some cases, Snowy Plovers may abandon their nests or eggs if they feel threatened, leading 4 to a decrease in breeding success. (Simons, E. (2020, November 23). Snowy plovers reclaim suddenly quiet beaches. Bay Nature. Retrieved January 1, 2023) In addition to habitat loss and disturbance, Snowy Plovers are also threatened by predation from domestic animals. Dogs and cats that roam free can attack and kill Snowy Plovers, particularly when they are vulnerable, such as during nesting season. Snowy Plovers are also at risk from predators such as gulls and crows, which can steal eggs or prey on chicks. (Cats and dogs and birds at the beach: A deadly combination - fws.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved January 1, 2023) There are several ways that we can minimize our impact on Snowy Plovers and help conserve this threatened species. Respect for nesting areas is crucial, as Snowy Plovers can be easily frightened away from their nests. Keeping domestic animals under control, such as by using leashes or supervising pets, can also help reduce the threat of predation to Snowy Plovers. Habitat destruction is a major threat to these birds, so we can support conservation efforts that aim to protect and restore their natural habitats. (Give beach-nesting birds space: How and why. Give Beach-Nesting Birds Space: How and Why | Department Of Natural Resources Division. (n.d.). Retrieved January 1, 2023) In conclusion, the Snowy Plover is a small but important species that is facing a number of threats, including habitat loss, disturbance from human activities, and predation by domestic animals. By taking steps to minimize our impact on these 5 birds and supporting conservation efforts, we can help to protect and conserve the Snowy Plover for future generations. This includes respecting nesting areas, keeping domestic animals under control, reducing habitat destruction, and supporting conservation organizations. By working together, we can ensure that the Snowy Plover continues to thrive and be a valuable part of our natural world. 6 References About the western snowy plover. Audubon California. (2019, June 20). Retrieved January 1, 2023, from https://ca.audubon.org/birds-0/about-western-snowy-plover Cats and dogs and birds at the beach: A deadly combination - fws.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved January 1, 2023, from https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/508_catsanddogsatbeach_pipl_f wssheet_1.pdf Give beach-nesting birds space: How and why. Give Beach-Nesting Birds Space: How and Why | Department Of Natural Resources Division. (n.d.). Retrieved January 1, 2023, from https://gadnr.org/give-beach-nesting-birds-space-how-and-why Simons, E. (2020, November 23). Snowy plovers reclaim suddenly quiet beaches. Bay Nature. Retrieved January 1, 2023, from https://baynature.org/2020/11/23/on-quiet-beaches-snowy-plovers-reclaim-their-ter ritory/ U.S. Department of the Interior. (n.d.). Western snowy plovers could face multiple threats from climate change (U.S. National Park Service). National Parks Service. Retrieved January 1, 2023, from https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/western-snowy-plovers-could-face-multiple-threat s-from-climate-change.htm 7 Western snowy plover. (n.d.). Retrieved January 1, 2023, from https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/species/birds/western_snowy_plover/index.html
