Saints Rest Beach Report for Saturday, September 6, 2025 (View eBird Report)
Today’s volunteer team consisted of Nancy Hamiliton, Jenna Cowie, John Pickle, and Debra Wilson, with Hank Scarth acting as lead volunteer.
Due to brisk winds, fog, and intermittent drizzle, only a few people ventured out to enjoy the beach. Out of the 29 individuals observed, volunteers interacted with 26. Two dog walkers chose the road instead, and one decided against walking acknowledging the presence of the birds. Of the six dogs noted, four were on a leash.
Significant numbers of shorebirds were recorded: approximately 2050 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 38 Least Sandpipers, 10 Semipalmated Plovers and four Sanderlings. Given the weather conditions and the flightiness of the birds, these numbers are a little less accurate than normal and there may have been greater numbers present. Nancy Hamilton was confident in identifying a Buff-breasted Sandpiper on the western sandy stretch of the beach. This species has been observed in past years in the same area on September 5 and 6, reinforcing her identification.
The birds were frequently flushed by a pair of Peregrine Falcons and at one point, possibly a Merlin. They consistently returned to settle near three anglers present. An INP employee spoke with the anglers about their impact on the birds and suggested there were other fishing areas they could use. However, the anglers were unwilling to leave their chosen spot. On a positive note, following ongoing discussions with INP staff, SCEP Counter/Educator, and volunteers, the anglers have adopted the practice of not discarding bait on the beach or in the water. Additionally, one volunteer noted that anglers were lowering their lines when birds flew past, but disturbance and line collisions could be significantly reduced if they moved 150 metres eastward and away from the cobble. Ongoing consultations with INP management will explore further options.
Shift details: 10:15 AM to 12:45 PM. The temperature was 18°C with SSW winds at 25 kph. The weather was overcast with fog and occasional drizzle, though visibility improved throughout the shift.
Hank Scarth, Lead Volunteer