I received a text this afternoon, there was a Black-bellied Plover at LSSP. I didn’t go at first, but then realized I did not have one for the year. I got down there just before 5pm. I walked out to the beach area and couldn’t find it. I thought I missed out. Then I saw movement right by the two signs in the middle of the beach, close to the water. It was using them as cover. I guess I had never seen that before down there, so I wasn’t expecting it. I walked close to the water and sat on the ground. It was casually walking around and feeding, moving slowly. This was a hatch year bird and for probably never seeing people before, was really tame. It walked right up to me, as close as six feet! At the same time a young Great Blue Heron landed fairly close and walked right past me in the water. It’s crazy how close those two birds were from me! I just sat there, didn’t move and watched them, as they were too close for photos. I watched the plover for about 30 minutes. It didn’t do much or move too far, but would occasionally pick in the pebbles for food. Summerfest was going on and there was a lot of loud music coming from all around. Surprisingly, it didn’t seem too bothered by any of it. Another cool bird for the day. Enjoy!
Providing a realistic experience to wildlife
