Seashore establishes pre-nesting areas for shorebird breeding season

Pedestrians and vehicles cannot enter pre-nesting areas, but they do not impede access since they are high on the beach — toward the dunes..

The pre-nesting areas are established based on the recent breeding history at the seashore and the actual habitat conditions observed during the annual assessment. As the birds arrive and begin to establish territories, park staff may be required to modify these delineations, depending on where the breeding territories are established.

The site-specific restrictions are posted at each location to provide the most accurate and up-to-date indication of access status. The park encourages visitors to observe these unique breeding activities from a safe distance.

ORV permits are required for driving on seashore beaches.

They are available online by visiting www.recreation.gov or at the following park locations–  Bodie Island Lighthouse Visitor Center, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Visitor Center, and the Ocracoke Visitor Center. The permit offices are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., year-round, seven days a week, except Christmas Day, with expanded hours on weekends and holidays during the summer season.

The cost of an annual permit, which is valid for the calendar year, costs $120.  A seven-day ORV permit, valid from the date issued, costs $50.

For more general information, call 252-473-2111 or visit the park webpage at at: http://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/off-road-vehicle-use.htm..