Volunteers from the Cape May Bird Observatory explain these critical ecological relationships to visitors. Some species, like this Piping Plover, are dependent on quiet beach habitats for breeding. Their preference for nesting on open beaches has brought them into conflict with man's summertime beach activities, and this species has been driven close to extinction. Another beach nester, now endangered in some areas, is the Black Skimmer. These birds prefer open beaches and sandbars, making them vulnerable to human disturbance.
Reproductive success is reduced by even slight human disturbance.
These magnificent birds, with their ability to flawlessly skim the surface even in high winds over rough seas, have written their own chapter into the annals of flight. There are only three species of skimmers in the world. It would be a tragedy indeed if future generations lost the opportunity to witness this unique spectacle. The lengthening days of spring, and the abundance of food, signals the time to renew life. These Laughing Gulls will soon be raising a brood.