Sanibel’s beaches are more than just beautiful—they’re also home to a variety of nesting shorebirds. From now through August, these delicate species use our shores to rest, feed, and raise their young. The City of Sanibel is asking everyone—residents and visitors alike—to “Share the Shore” by following a few simple, impactful guidelines.
Why It Matters
Nesting shorebirds are highly sensitive to disturbance. A moment too close, a sudden noise, or an off-leash dog can cause parents to flee the nest, putting eggs or chicks at risk of overheating, predation, or abandonment. Your small actions can make a big difference.
Shorebird-Friendly Beach Guidelines
Here’s how you can help keep Sanibel’s beaches safe and welcoming for our feathered neighbors:
1. Give Wildlife Space
Stay out of posted nesting zones and maintain a respectful distance from birds and their young. If a bird flies away, you’re too close.
2. Leash Your Dog
Sanibel’s leash law requires dogs to be leashed and attended at all times (max 8-foot leash). Unleashed pets can scare, chase, or accidentally harm shorebird chicks.
3. Never Chase Birds
Chasing or disturbing birds forces them to burn essential energy and may lead to nest abandonment or even death of chicks left behind.
4. Don’t Feed Wildlife
Feeding birds or leaving food scraps attracts predators like crows and gulls—major threats to eggs and hatchlings.
5. Mind Your Line & Trash
Discarded fishing lines and loose trash can entangle or injure wildlife. Learn how to properly handle tangled birds at MindYourLine.org.
6. Clear the Beach by 9 PM
All furniture, tents, and beach gear must be removed nightly to prevent hazards to nesting birds or sea turtles.
7. Fill Holes & Flatten Sandcastles
Before leaving, smooth out the sand. Deep holes can trap chicks, hatchlings, or other small wildlife.
8. Don’t Disturb the Wrack Line
The wrack line—where seaweed and debris wash ashore—is an important food source and habitat for birds. Leave it intact.
9. Limit Artificial Light
Avoid using flash photography, flashlights, or phone lights near nesting sites, especially at night.
10. Fly Kites & Drones Responsibly
Operate kites, drones, or other flying devices well away from marked nesting areas and wildlife preserves.
11. Stay Off Dune Vegetation
Beach plants protect both wildlife and our shoreline from erosion. Stick to designated paths.
12. Say No to Personal Fireworks
Fireworks disturb nesting birds. Attend official displays instead of setting off your own.
Spread the Word
One of the best ways to protect our shorebird population is through education. Share these tips with your family, friends, neighbors, and guests.
Learn more and get involved by visiting the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF).
Watch the “Our Shorebird Conservation” video here: YouTube Link
Report Concerns
Violations of wildlife protection rules can result in city, state, or federal penalties.
To report an incident, call the Sanibel Police Department at 239-472-3111
For emergencies, always dial 911
Have questions about nesting shorebirds or local environmental guidelines?
Email: sandnr@mysanibel.com
Phone: 239-472-3700
