Town Of Westport: Use Of Drones Around Bird Nesting Sites At Compo Beach

Press release from the Town of Westport:

06/17/2021 1:00 PM

The Conservation and Parks and Recreation Departments are reminding people to not fly drones over the nesting bird sites at Compo Beach.

An area of Compo Beach has been cordoned off as two types of rare birds, American Oyster Catcher and Piping Plover, have established nests in this area. Drones flown over the nesting site have disturbed the birds and caused them to become aggressive, resulting in injuries to the birds.  Beachgoers and others are reminded that both the American Oyster Catcher and the Piping Plover are listed on the Connecticut and Federal Threatened Species List and are protected by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Disturbing nests is punishable by law including up to a $20,000 fine.

Conservation Director, Alicia Mozian stated, “It is important for us to be careful not to disrupt the birds while they are in this vulnerable state.  For the safety of the birds, please admire them from a distance and do not hover drones near them.”

Anyone witnessing a drone over one of the nest sites is encouraged to call the Westport Police Department and/or report it to a Compo Beach staff member.

This press release was produced by the Town of Westport. The views expressed here are the author’s own.