PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • May 24, 2020
Maine Audubon has spotted 100 pairs and 61 active nests so far this year, a positive sign for the spring nesting season. Last year, the group reported 89 nesting pairs and 175 fledged chicks, which was a record for Maine. The tiny beachcombers have been rebounding for years but remain endangered in Maine. The pandemic has changed beach traffic in southern Maine during a critical time for the plovers, but the effect has been different based on beach and town. Some beaches have been open and experiencing more visitors than usual. Other beaches have been closed for weeks, so the birds have been able to nest with little interference.