WESTERN SNOWY PLOVER RESTRICTIONS TAKE EFFECT AT VANDENBERG AFB

摘要

Annual restrictions to protect western snowy plover nests went into effect March 1 on three beaches at Vandenberg Air Force Base on California's central coast. The restrictions will be in effect at Surf, Wall and Minuteman beaches through Sept. 30, the base said in a statement. The tiny shorebird is listed as a threatened species. The western snowy plover's diminutive size and the colors of its feathers camouflage its presence, and eggs laid in shallow depressions in the sand can easily go unnoticed and be trampled. "We protect the snowy plover by restricting specific areas of the beaches, managing predators and restoring plover habitat to compensate for the effects of recreational beach use during the breeding season," said Samantha Kaisersatt, 30th Civil Engineer Squadron biological scientist. "Beach restrictions also include the prohibition of dogs, horses and kites."