09/05/2026
Congratulations to Asilomar’s Black Oystercatcher breeding pair, MP1! 🥳
Although this pair nests one or two times per year, there are many challenges that threaten chicks’ survival. Predators such as Turkey Vultures or Brown Pelicans can eat chicks or eggs. In addition, Black Oystercatchers are very sensitive to human disturbance. If people walk too close to nests or fly drones, or their pets are off leash, adults may leave their young unattended.
After spending 40 days with their parents, the Black Oystercatcher chicks have now fledged and are on their way to being fully independent! 😍🙌 The chicks will go on to be tidepool predators and balance this ecosystem by eating animals like snails, mussels, and limpets. 🐌🐚
Thank you to the Monterey Audobon Society for their dedicated research and efforts to protect Black Oystercatchers! A special shout out to monitor Stephanie Turcotte for documenting MP1 since 2015, and sharing these beautiful photos with us! 💙
