Piping Plover pair returns to Wasaga Beach

A pair of Piping Plovers. (Hester Riches/CTV News)

A pair of Piping Plovers has returned to its nesting area at Wasaga Beach, marking the start of nesting season.

The endangered birds have a spot along the shores at Beach Area 1 where they nest every spring.

The birds’ arrival at the beach comes shortly after the Town of Wasaga Beach’s introduction of a new bylaw that can fine people thousands of dollars for disrupting wildlife.

• New bylaw can now fine people up to $3,000 for disrupting Piping Plovers

The bylaw is part of a bigger project called Destination Wasaga, a plan to redevelop the beach town, putting community first.

Last month, the Town announced it’s collaborating with Birds Canada, where it’s making Piping Plover stewardship training mandatory for all staff.

• Wasaga Beach collaborating with Birds Canada to protect endangered Piping Plovers

For those heading to the beach this summer, the Town asks everyone to abide by the posted signage, stay out of the fenced and protected areas, keep pets away from the Plover habitat and avoid disturbing wildlife.