Friday, December 17, 2010

Dirt Bikes & Terns


This video perfectly illustrates the blatant disregard for park property and the fragile wetland habitat at the Marine Park Nature Preserve. During the bird breeding season motorcycle riders like these two guys can be found every weekend at low tide, chasing birds, such as the endangered Least Tern. This bird is listed as "Threatened" in New York State and Federally "Endangered". On the day this video was shot, two people called the city's 311 number and were transferred to the 911 operator as this activity is considered criminal. My friend and I remained in the area for at least 1 hour, but neither Parks Enforcement Patrol officers nor anyone from NYPD arrived to investigate. The two guys in the video brought their motorcycles to the marsh in the back of their pick-up trucks and parked at the end of Gerritsen Avenue to access the marsh. Note in the satellite image all the trails and damage to the habitat done by ATVs and motorcycles.
(Click image to enlarge)

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