In 2021, least terns (Sternula antillarum) were observed foraging along Sanibel’s shoreline, but ultimately did not nest on the island. A single pair of Wilson’s plovers (Charadrius wilsonia) successfully fledged three chicks and four pairs of snowy plovers (Charadrius nivosus) fledged three chicks. Snowy plover chicks were banded to allow researchers to track their movements. One banded fledgling was recently sighted at Bunche Beach before it traveled to Carlos Pointe on Fort Myers Beach. Another fledgling was spotted at Bowman’s Beach.

“It’s always exciting to see where fully-fledged shorebirds will show up,” said Shorebird Biologist/Coastal Wildlife Manager Audrey Albrecht. 

Sanibel Nesting Stats

Snowy plovers (Charadrius nivosus)

• 4 nesting pairs

• 9 nest attempts

• 4 nests hatched 12 chicks

• 3 chicks fledged

• 5 nests failed

Wilson’s plovers (Charadrius wilsonia)

• 1 nesting pair

• 1 nest attempt

• 3 chicks fledged

(Totals don’t include North Captiva or Bunche Beach)