In order to preserve the population of the Snowy Plover (Anarchynchus nivosus), we have joined forces with various environmental organizations to carry out actions aimed at the conservation of this priority species, which in a short time has become an important part of Ensenada’s identity.
On April 12th, a fence was installed in the main nesting areas of the Snowy Plover, specifically in Playa Pacifica in Ensenada, Baja California. This fence will protect the sites from April until the last week of August, providing a safe refuge for the species and increasing the probability of survival during the most vulnerable stage.
Listed as an endangered species, this charismatic shorebird is notable for its small size and nesting habits, building its nests directly in the sand. Thanks to their ability to camouflage themselves and blend in with their surroundings, they often go unnoticed. However, they are threatened by vehicle traffic, recreational activities, and off-leash pet walking.
The temporary fence at Pacifica Beach will be complemented by an educational module that will be displayed at the city’s main events, according to Lizz Gonzalez, coordinator of education for the conservation of Pronatura Noroeste. “Although we face several environmental challenges, improving public awareness is a key tool in the effort to protect the snowy plover,” explains the expert from the beach of Baja California.
As a species that moves seasonally, their conservation is a challenge. Pronatura Noroeste is actively involved in migratory bird conservation through the Motus Network, a collaborative effort to track the movements of migratory birds. Julian García Walter, coordinator of the Motus network in northwestern Mexico, recognizes the importance of Snowy Plover tracking as an opportunity to monitor, study and understand this species and its dynamics in ecosystems, which is another important conservation goal for the organization.
This action is the result of a collaborative effort with the organizations Pajareando y Conservando, Pro Estereos, Pacifica, Ensenada’s Directorate of Municipal Administration, Ecology and Environment, ZOFEMAT, Manomet and Pronatura Noroeste. Every small action counts for the conservation of the Snowy Plover.
Together we can support the conservation of this and other threatened species in northwestern Mexico.
