Background
Seashores are habitats for numerous species of plants and animals, and are a haven for migratory birds as well. It is important to treat these areas with respect.
Procedure
• If you turn a rock over, do so gently, then put it back as it was. Bear in mind that you've just lifted the roof off somebody’s home.
• Don't leave piles of sand or mud on the beach. Animals may burrow into these places and die when the tide comes in. As well, the piles may block the burrows of small clams or other wildlife, causing them to die.
• If you investigate a creature living under seaweed, cover it up again with the wet vegetation, so the sun won't dry it out.
• On rocky shores, try to walk on bare rocks or patches of sand and mud to avoid crushing barnacles or other species that live on the surface.
• Do not move animals from one shore, beach, or tidal zone to another, and never take sea creatures home with you.
• Leave sea shells exactly where you find them. An empty one could be a hermit crab's future residence! If sea shells are occupied, don't disturb them. Never try to force them open.
• Clean up your trash and pick up any extras you find. Garbage attracts predators that eat eggs and nestlings.