In order to restore the former Sternula albiforns population in Kurzeme, the Nature Conservation Agency (NCA) will close the estuary of the Ķikans and Irbe rivers from April 1 to August 1. During this period, people are encouraged to choose areas and routes for rest and walks on the beach that do not cross these areas, taking special care to ensure that the dogs they take do not cross fenced areas.
The approximately 1.4 kilometres (km) stretch of beach and dune between the left bank of the Irbe and the sea in Ventspils region is completely closed. At the estuary of the Kikans, on the other hand, there is a stretch of about 600 meters long beach and dunes, which people can cross along the seashore without delay and keeping the dog on a short leash.
Currently, only 70-100 pairs of Sternula albifrons nest in Latvia, and their number continues to decline. Therefore, the species of birds nesting in the most endangered beach is the Sternula albifrons. However, in the same places, rivers and sand dunes, Chaadrius dubius and Charadrius hiticula, as well as Sterna paradisaea nest in the same places.
Dace Sāmīte, the director of the NCA Kurzeme regional administration, explains that in April, migratory birds return from the warm lands and nesters – Sterninae and Charadriiformes and other species that use the coast as a dining room and nursery - arrive. Back in 2014, the Irbe estuary was an important nesting site for the Sternula albiforns in Latvia and throughout Europe, but now it no longer exists. However, in nature, every plant or animal, including a bird, has a specific function. Preserving them, especially during reproduction, allows a complete food chain to be maintained, ensuring a balance between species, non-living nature and humans. The conservation of nature also requires the systematic and conscious participation of man. In this case - refraining from visiting two beach areas.
These birds nest in the sand of the beach. Often the nests and the nest in them blend in completely with the environment, so the human eye slips unnoticed. Juveniles of birds nesting on the beach are nest refugees. Namely, soon after hatching, they leave the nest and follow their parents, who feed and look after them. The chicks do not fly during this time, they move quickly on the ground, says Sāmīte.
Research shows that birds perceive humans in their vicinity as a threat. Adult birds leave their nests, while chicks run away from their parents. Over time, the birds leave the previously selected areas, no longer lay eggs and do not rear their young, resulting in a shrinking population of the species.
Even more critical than the person's own presence is the presence of his pet on the beach. Dogs smell and notice both nests and birds. When a dog is seen on a beach, adult birds leave their nests, putting eggs or chicks at risk of death. Non-flying chicks become easy prey.
Sintija Martinsone, the leading expert of the Monitoring and Planning Division of the NCA Nature Protection Department, explains that birds need peace during the nesting period. Analysing the situation, the DPO has realized that this can only be achieved by demarcating the area. The NCA urges people to be understanding and responsible about these time-limited restrictions, because unfortunately these species cannot choose to nest elsewhere, as long as people have a very wide range of walking routes, Martinsone says.
The delimitation of the beach is carried out with the co-financing of the LIFE REEF project.