Stewardship Report: Black Oystercatchers are nesting!

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If you follow our newsletter, you know that the resident black oystercatcher pair at Haystack Rock is nesting! The nest is located in the loose rocky area just below the large "Do Not Enter" sign (see picture). This is the earliest they've nested in about a decade, and they currently have three eggs in their nest. The chicks are expected to hatch around June 4.

A black oystercatcher sits on its nest at Haystack Rock. Photo by Margaret Minnick


These birds are a U.S. Fish & Wildlife "Species of Concern," and have an average hatching rate of 29%. The chicks have only a 13% survival rate to fledging. So, every year the Haystack Rock Awareness Program works very hard to protect our black oystercatcher nest, so that they have the best chance of successfully hatching and fledging their offspring. To avoid any disturbance that might disrupt the nesting, HRAP staff are roping off the area in front of the nest during each low tide. When visiting the rock, be sure to respect the signs and ropes so that you don't mistakenly scare the birds into leaving their nest. Thanks so much for your help!

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