While attending a photo workshop at Nickerson Beach on Long Island, most of the breeding areas were carefully roped off—except for one American Oystercatcher nest sitting out in the open sand. That nest, constantly patrolled by vigilant adults, held three speckled eggs. When we returned later in the day, two had hatched. Lying flat on the sand at eye level, we watched as the tiny chicks found their sea legs for the very first time. Before long, their tentative movements turned into animated interactions that felt a lot like sibling rivalry—awkward, clumsy, and absolutely hilarious. Being able to witness and photograph those unscripted moments was pure joy. Capturing that burst of life and personality, just hours after hatching, made this one of the most memorable and rewarding birding experiences I have ever had.
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