The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is reminding the public, particularly ATV users, to be vigilant when in the vicinity of beaches along the west coast and southwest coast in order to protect known nesting sites for the endangered Piping Plover. The nests and chicks of these small, camouflaged birds are destroyed each year as a result of damage caused by ATVs and this activity threatens the recovery of these birds in our province.
In 2020, there were only 12 breeding pairs of Piping Plover in Newfoundland and Labrador, and fewer than 160 pairs in Eastern Canada.
The department has received a number of recent reports of increased ATV traffic along several beaches where it is currently illegal to ride motorized vehicles due to the presence of Piping Plover nests and eggs.
The general public is reminded to obey posted warning signage and to keep dogs on leashes when visiting beaches in these areas.
The following locations are known nesting sites for Piping Plover and have signage posted advising ATV usage is not permitted.
- Grand Bay West:
- Big Barachois Beach
- Bottles Barachois Beach
- Second Beach
- Short Sand Beach
- Osmond’s Beach
- Stephenville Crossing:
- Black Bank Beach
- Stephenville Crossing Beach
ATV use is also prohibited in the following provincial parks and reserves where nesting Piping Plover are located:
- T. Cheesman Provincial Park
- Codroy Valley Provincial Park
- Sandbanks Provincial Park
- Big Barasway Wildlife Reserve
Individuals can report suspected illegal ATV activity by contacting the department toll free at 1-877-820-0999 or by visiting www.stoppoaching.ca. A conviction under the Endangered Species Act for harming, harassing or causing death of these birds can result in fines ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, and jail time of up to three months for a first offense.
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Media contact
Craig Renouf
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2923, 640-6922
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca