LE GRAVELOT À COLLIER INTERROMPU

This migratory species arrives in Saint-Brevin-les-Pins around 1st April to breed. A very discreet species, it is regularly seen at the edge between the low water mark and the top of the beach. The females lay between 2 and 3 eggs (the same colour as the sand or pebbles) on the ground (nests can be found on the sand). Once the eggs have been laid, the adults take turns incubating and protecting the nest for 1 month. During this month, the parents will have to redouble their efforts to protect their eggs. The list of disturbances can be long: walkers, dogs running at large, high tides, predation, etc. During the brooding period and after the chicks have hatched, if they sense any danger, the parents will try to ward off intruders by drawing their attention to themselves, emitting a characteristic “Tuit… Tuit” and moving around nervously. Some will even go so far as to mimic an injured wing in order to appear more vulnerable. If you observe this behaviour, move away quickly, being careful where you step: a nest or chicks are probably not far away and are very well camouflaged in the sea. Once the danger has passed, the parents will quickly return to their young. To keep disturbance and the risk of trampling to a minimum, it’s best to walk along the lower part of the beach and keep your dog away from possible nesting areas. “>http://