When I was looking up information about how to identify a piping plover fledgling, I came across an interesting fact -- piping plover chicks are entirely responsible for feeding themselves! While watching the chicks on the beach at Sandy Point Reservation on multiple occasions this summer, I was interested to observe how much time they seemed to spend catching bugs. They appeared to be on a constant search for food, which now makes a lot of sense to me. It would also seem to explain why all of the chicks in the same clutch would often run in separate directions after warming up under their parent. Pretty incredible to think that a few hours after they hatch, these adorable tiny predators are already leaving the nest and looking for prey.
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They leave the nest early, those little guys! Really interesting information and observations. And an adorable picture as a bonus! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sallie! It's pretty incredible that they are out of the nest and running around just hours after hatching.
DeleteWonderful post and stunning capture! Thank you so much for sharing, you have made my day. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Linda -- having the chance to watch plover chicks on the beach definitely made my day too!
DeleteThat is a fabulous shot! He looks ready to conquer the world!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Betty! Definitely some real personality to this little chick!
DeleteI did not know this about these little fellows. To survive as they do is amazing, great shot! phyllis
ReplyDeleteThanks, Phyllis! I agree, it's quite remarkable
DeleteVery cute little bird.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Rajesh!
DeleteWhat an exciting encounter to photograph! I hadn't heard this about the plover chicks, such cute little guys. Seeing them would make the trip to the beach worthwhile. Last beach trip I went on had almost no shore birds present at all.
ReplyDeleteBummer about your last beach trip -- seeing shorebirds makes any outing better for sure!
DeleteA great picture Pat. Those guys are so innocent and vulnerable at that age and need to feed constantly so as to grow as fast as possible. I hope the chicks all manage to survive.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Phil! I was out there again yesterday and saw a handful of piping plover juveniles, so at least some of them made it this far. I hope they return again next summer.
Deletethis is a stunning image. I love it. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks very much!
DeleteSplendid shot!
ReplyDeleteThanks!
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