Vulnerable beach-nesting birds don’t just need our help, they need an award-worthy commitment.

Every May–August, vulnerable species like the Piping Plover, American Oystercatcher, and Least Tern nest and hatch chicks on the shorelines of the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Coast. Chicks that weigh less than a single scoop of ice cream! 

These small birds face big obstacles, from noisy fireworks to unleashed pets, and litter that attracts predators. These birds don’t just need our help, they need an award-worthy commitment.

Audubon is thrilled to announce that Long Island's Town of Hempstead is the recipient of our first-ever Share the Shore Award.

“Share the Shore” is Audubon’s way of ensuring these birds can always call our coastline home. The program unites scientists with local community members to ensure our birds can nest, rest, forage, and migrate safely.

For over four decades, the Town of Hempstead has exemplified "Share the Shore" practices by managing critical beach habitat, launching exciting programs for volunteers and paid positions for local youth, and sharing educational messages with the public.

Congratulations to this winning, bird-friendly community, and many thanks from Audubon!

Want to see your community's beaches become places where birds thrive? Add your name here.