This Memorial Day, be beach aware! Please consider the well-being of our amazing coastal birds when you're out on the beaches or in the bays. We are still in the middle of the breeding season for most of our bird species, many of whom nest on beaches and small islands that are easily accessible by people. If you see a bird running or flying off a suspected nest, or doing a broken wing display, you are too close! Plus, chicks for many of these species have feathers that allow them to blend in to their environment, meaning you may not see them and could easily run them over. Watching birds flying around may seem amusing, but it's important to understand that disturbances leading to these behaviors can have negative consequences, and can affect the birds' nesting and feeding activities. Keep in mind, birds like terns might also release some well-aimed feces on your head if you do walk into their nesting colony! To enjoy the weekend and keep the birds safe, please follow these guidelines: 1 - pay attention to signs and stay away from posted or fenced off areas. Keep in mind, many areas, like dunes and nesting islands, are protected and environmentally sensitive. 2 - keep your distance from birds on the water feeding and those nesting singly or in colonies, to limit stress to the birds. 3 - please keep your pets on leash! In most areas, it is required that pets be on leash and under control at all times. Please remember to pick up your pets' waste as well. 4 - leave no trace by removing your trash, including plastics and food scraps. 5 - spread the word! Help us in our mission to protect these vulnerable species by educating others. Photos by GCBO and Alan W. (fb)

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