Sunrise at Plymouth Beach.

Sun rises over tire tracks from the previous evening.

The beach is heavily regulated as to where automobiles can and cannot be.

People wait in line well before the beach opens.

Residents lounge not knowing if they will be able to drive onto the beach.

The second check-in point.

The beach is closed to vehicles until the piping plover chicks move farther north.

Not being able to drive onto the beach, people lug their gear from the road.

The sand is not as compact down towards the shore line.

Rocks are moved aside to allow an easy run to the ocean.

Not everybody is able to drive on the beach so they enter by foot.

Dogs are allowed on the beach but must be leashed at all times.

This dog is on a leash....

A couple arrives at Plymouth Beach via boat.

An egg shell is dropped away from the nest so it will not attract predators.

A morning dove (Zenaida mocroura) also uses the protected area.

Multiple user groups are interested in the wildlife at Plymouth Beach.

Private property owners mandated management of people and wildlife.

Another way people arrive at Plymouth Beach.

Property owners must follow regulations but are allowed access to the beach.

A common tern (Sterna hirundo) stands on a barrier post used to mark its nesting area.

A least tern (Sterna antillarum) and a common tern (Sterna hirundo) need to use the beach even though there are people at the shoreline.

A least tern (Sterna antillarum) keeping water between it and the people.

This educational program by Audubon was given to biologists from Central and South America.

Bird checks are done daily to monitor endangered species.

A staff member clearly marks the point where cars are not allowed.

View of fishermen returning to Plymouth Harbor at sunset.