In Delaware, the Atlantic Coast population of piping plovers is federally threatened and state endangered — a status shared by the state-endangered least tern and American oystercatcher. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working to recover and protect these iconic coastal species. Piping plovers are a management‑dependent species, meaning that without active conservation efforts they would struggle to survive and fledge young in the face of intense predation, habitat degradation and loss, and increasing disturbance from our changing world.

Each year, Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge hires seasonal biologists to protect and monitor piping plovers, least terns, and American oystercatchers. This critical work that directly contributes to the survival of these vulnerable birds is chronically underfunded. Biologists are paid modestly, and with coastal Delaware’s high housing costs and no onsite accommodations at the refuge, many would not be able to serve without additional support. That’s where the Friends of Prime Hook play a vital role by funding temporary housing for seasonal staff. For the 2026 season’s beach‑nesting bird program, we anticipate housing costs will exceed $10,000. This investment directly supports the dedicated field staff who ensure these species have a fighting chance. 

(All media captured by trained personnel during routine threatened and endangered species monitoring activities or during state and federally sanctioned research activities under permits from the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and USGS Bird Banding Laboratory.)