To help protect state-threatened least tern chicks from the South Florida heat, SCCF shorebird biologists are deploying “chick shelters” within the nesting least tern colony along the Sanibel Causeway.

Least tern parents also provide shade to their eggs and chicks by shielding them from direct sunlight, and the new shade structures will help chicks stay cool even when mom and dad are away to forage or deter predators. 

“Typically, least terns also use natural vegetation and debris such as driftwood for shade, but there is not as much available on the newly reconstructed causeway,” said SCCF Shorebird Biologist Audrey Albrecht.

As of May 29, we have documented 91 actively incubating nests and 15 least tern chicks on the Sanibel Causeway. We are recruiting more shorebird steward volunteers to help us monitor the colony during peak weekend beach times. Sign up here.

Another strategy used by least terns to deal with the heat is called “gular fluttering,” during which the bird open its mouth to dissipate body heat by increasing the surface area of exposure.

As least tern chicks get older, they will increasingly venture outside of their nest area, making it important for beachgoers to be mindful when near a nesting colony. 

Learn how to share the shore.