In the Spring and Summer our beaches in North West Norfolk, are home to birds that nest on the ground. Ringed plovers are one of these species and are sadly suffering from significant population declines. The Norfolk ringed plover breeding population has declined by more than 70% in just 30 years with only 123 pairs recorded in 2018.
Ringed Plover - RSPB Images
They are declining as they struggle to find safe beaches to nest and feed their young, free from predators and human disturbance.
As our beaches become busier, ringed plovers are going to rely on our help to ensure chicks thrive and can continue to call Norfolk their home. We’re looking for volunteers to help protect, monitor and spread the word about these charming birds. There are opportunities at RSPB Snettisham, Snettisham – Heacham and at RSPB Titchwell.
You will become our eyes and ears, providing a friendly presence to help visitors understand how to help reduce the likelihood of disturbance to ringed plovers.
We also need you to help us gather data on who visits the beach and what measures they would support to help protect these special little birds.
If you have an enthusiasm for nature and able to communicate with visitors from all walks of life with differing knowledge and interest without hostility, even if people are not behaving as desired, we would love to hear from you.
Some walking will be involved as ringed plovers spread along the beaches, as is working outdoors in all weather conditions.
If you can spare a few hours a week from 1st April – 31st August then drop us an email: titchwell@rspb.org.uk for more information.