For 3 years I surveyed the largest salt barrens in the Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park for nesting Wilson’s Plovers. For park planning usage, I was concerned that the salt barrens must be protected from disturbances during the plover nesting season. I was able to document that we did have a healthy population of Wilsons’ Plovers who utilized the barrens each season. Although the number of pairs sighted each season was small, 6 to 12 pairs, nesting was confirmed when I found 4 nests with eggs and 6 juveniles in one season.
These salt barrens may be unique with their bare mud flats surrounded by short salt grass vegetation. In some areas the dead prone Buttonwood tree limbs and the limestone outcroppings add to the unique look of these barrens. The Wilson’s Plover readily utilize these features for lookout sites and areas to hide their nests. Additionally an abundant food source of Fiddler Crabs is easily available.
