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Contact: Outer Banks Group, 252-473-2111
While in the process of reopening South Point on Ocracoke Island today, an unfledged least tern chick with adults was discovered approximately 1.5 miles south of Ramp 72, which forced the re-closure of a portion of the area. As a result, 1.1 miles of ocean shoreline access, in addition to the 0.4 of a mile which was previously open, has re-opened south of Ramp 72 for ORV and pedestrian access. The closure is described as being “almost to the curve” at the southern end of South Point where a resource protection area was established to protect the least tern chick.
The nesting season for beach nesting bird species is winding down on the national seashore beaches but some chick/nesting activity remains. Staff will continue to monitor these areas closely until all species of nesting birds fledge their young.
In addition, Ramp 45 near Buxton reopened today with a total of 1 mile of ocean shoreline reopened for ORV and pedestrian access. Approximately 0.8 of a mile west of Ramp 45 and 0.2 of a mile east of Ramp 45 is open with no through access beyond these points in either direction.
Temporary resource protection areas are established to protect threatened and endangered species, including piping plovers and sea turtles, and for species of concern, including American oystercatchers and colonial waterbirds (terns and black skimmers). For more information, call 252-473-2111 ext. 148.
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Last updated: April 14, 2015