Notes on a new breeding site for the endangered Kentish Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus) in a touristic beach of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy

Abstract

We describe a new breeding site for the endangered Kentish Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus), the first recorded in recent years along the coastline of Friuli-Venezia Giulia (NE Italy), and report the impact of the first protective measures implemented at this site. Throughout the breeding season, we recorded a total of 8 nests, 10 eggs, and 6 fledglings. These results show that simple measures have a highly positive effect on nesting attempts and on the overall reproductive success, and they highlight the possible coexistence of conservation measures and tourism.