Share Our Shores

How to have a bird-friendly visit to the beach

All along the Atlantic Coast, people love going to the beach. The sun, the surf, and the memories we create with our friends and families make the beach a special place. We fish, play, build sandcastles, walk our dogs, and relax while some of our most imperiled wildlife attempt to feed, rest, and raise their young nearby. For shorebirds, the beach is ‘home sweet home.’ 

Every year, as we flock to our favorite beach destinations for sun and fun, shorebirds and seabirds return to these same areas from their wintering locations as far away as the Caribbean and South America.

When we unintentionally disturb them with our activities on the beach, we keep them from being able to eat, nest, and rest.

Family walking their dog at the beach

Be a leader: walk your dog away from shorebird flocks. 

While your dog may enjoy getting  exercise and socialization on the beach, it is important to give birds space and keep them safe. Remember, we all share the shore!

While walking the beach, walk around shorebird flocks.

When we unintentionally disturb shorebirds with our activities on the beach, we keep them from being able to eat, nest, and rest.