A record summer for the Kentish Plover!

In July, the peak period for hatching and chick-rearing, numerous Kentish Plover families were observed on the Côte Sauvage, Île d'Oléron, Saint-Froult, and Île de Ré. A historic record for the region was even reached in mid-July, with 172 chicks counted simultaneously. This figure, reported by the LPO, shows a significant increase compared to previous years: 78 in July 2021, 118 in July 2023, and 123 in July 2024. This success is no accident, but rather the result of the effectiveness of the protective measures implemented thanks to the support of the protection program's partners, including Palmyre Conservation.

The breeding season is now coming to an end in our department: there are no more nests incubating, but the LPO continues its weekly surveys to monitor the last chicks and raise awareness among beach users, especially dog owners: if you plan to go to the beach with your four-legged friend, remember to check that it is allowed on the beach! Leash walks are also recommended to ensure the tranquility of the chicks.

The protective enclosures will be removed shortly, when the chicks are old enough to fly. For the past few days, the first post-nuptial gatherings have been visible. These gatherings allow the birds, including those born in 2025, to feed and rest before their departure on migration.

An awareness-raising stand run by the LPO and dedicated to the conservation of the species will close the season on August 26th in Les Boucholeurs. Finally, an exceptional sighting marked the year: for the first time, a family of ringed plovers with four chicks was observed on Galon d'Or beach, a rare occurrence since most pairs lay only two or three eggs!