--- GOLDENROD FOUNDATION ---

Sandy beaches are dynamic systems, constantly reshaped by shifting sands from wind, ocean waves and currents. Shorebirds that breed in this habitat lay their eggs in shallow scrapes in the sand, and forage for food in beach wrack. During winter months, sandy beaches frequently become cobble shores.


		CLICK HERE TO SEE SHOREBIRD MIGRATION ROUTES				CLICK HERE TO SEE HABITAT MAP OF PLYMOUTH BEACH


	American Oystercatcher

	Bank Swallow

	Black Skimmer

	Black Tern

	Great Black-backed Gull

	Herring Gull

	Horned Lark

	Least Tern

	Piping Plover

	Ring-billed Gull

	Snow Bunting

American Oystercatcher	PHOTO: 1 2

photo: Shawn P. Carey (Migration Productions)

The American Oystercatcher is one of two oystercatcher species that occur in the Western Hemisphere. Oystercatchers have a specialized bill that can open mussels and oysters in seconds. Approximately 200 pairs breed in Massachusetts. The first recorded pair of American Oystercatchers to nest on the South Shore was found on Duxbury Beach in 2009. This showy and vocal bird may be seen roosting on the beach or foraging on the harbor’s tidal flats. The US Fish & Wildlife Service includes the American Oystercatcher on its list of Birds of Conservation Concern.