Audubon Delta

Each spring, least terns return to the Gulf Coast—traveling thousands of miles from Central and South America to nest right here on our beaches.

Along the Mississippi coast, these federally protected birds depend on safe, undisturbed nesting areas to raise their chicks. That’s why Audubon Delta teams are out on the sand placing signage and working with communities to protect these vulnerable colonies through the busy summer months.

“They come spend the summer with us just like your average tourists, but they’re not just here to enjoy the beach, they are here to raise their families,” said Jessica Martin, Audubon stewardship manager.

These beaches support over 20% of the Gulf’s breeding population, according to stewardship coordinator Amanda Douglas—making protection efforts more important than ever.

🐦 Please respect posted nesting areas and give birds space.

Least terns return to South Mississippi beaches for nesting season Least terns return to South Mississippi beaches for nesting season

Spring migration is underway, and World Migratory Bird Day on May 9 is a chance to celebrate the incredible journeys of birds across the Delta.

Earlier this month at the Little Rock Audubon Center, a single morning bird walk recorded 53 species, with banding efforts highlighting how vital this region is for migratory birds.

When we care for the Delta, we support birds across the hemisphere.

Share the shore with coastal birds like least terns while they nest and rest on our beaches.

These birds can be easily scared off when beachgoers are too close. We can help keep birds safe by respecting posted areas and giving them space.

Here are some simple ways to help nesting birds this season:
🐣Stay away from areas that have been roped off for nesting birds, and avoid walking through flocks of birds. Birds need space to thrive! If a parent is scared off a nest, they can expose their eggs or chicks to potentially fatal heat or predators. Getting too close also causes stress to the birds, wasting their precious energy. If space allows, give birds at least 100 feet of distance, and make sure to follow any more specific local guidelines.

🐩Only take your pup to beaches where dogs are allowed, and remember to always use a leash. We love dogs, but unfortunately our furry friends look like predators to coastal birds.

🗑️Take your trash with you when you leave. Garbage can attract predators, and some trash such as fishing line can entangle birds.