Open fields, sparse plant life, sandy dunes… what better place for birds? Two species in particular reside in this habitat on Jones Beach. The piping plover and the least tern. They make sand-colored eggs right on the beach, so it is incredibly important for visitors to be aware of the locations and regard fences and signs. These patches of habitat are vital to the ecosystem. On Saturday, May 25, the Great Neck Branch visited Jones Beach to protect these birds. Becauseit is Memorial Day weekend, Jones Beach will get about a half million visitors in 2 days, who are coming to watch an airshow, which could threaten the bird populations. So, as volunteers, we put up what is called a “mental fence” to help protect these areas. We wore bright yellow shirts and sat by the fence to prevent visitors from disrupting the birds.
Volunteers are essential to giving these eggs a chance. 140 People showed up today to help, 30 of which were from the Great Neck Branch. This event was coordinated by George, who is the Environmental Steward Assistant for the Long Island region of New York State Parks and he coordinates these efforts. Between all the work that needed to get done, we did get to also observe the air show of military planes flying overhead, which was a treat for all of the volunteers, who diligently protected the birds from 9:00 am to 3:00 am.
