Waukegan Welcomes New Piping Plover Chicks

The shores of Waukegan saw an increase in its piping plover population this week, as three new chicks were released on Tuesday. On the same day, three resident plovers received identification bands and names, a move facilitated by the Lake County Audubon Society.

Carolyn Lueck, president of the Lake County Audubon Society, shared her excitement about this development: “Receiving three siblings — two females and a male — was thrilling news. Plus, they arrived the same day our wild-fledged birds were banded.”

The resident piping plovers now bearing names are Dune, Pebbles, and Drifter, inspired by the Great Lakes. Drifter, originally intended to be named “Drift,” earned the name due to its adventurous nature, Lueck explained. “Since hatching, this plover displayed a keenness to explore independently,” she stated.

These chicks hail from Pepper and Blaze, long-time visitors to the Lake County beach. The trio released comprises two females, Amaura and Anorith, alongside a male named Archen, inspired by Pokémon characters. Lueck mentioned the names might attract individuals unfamiliar with piping plovers, suggesting, “There may be piping plover trading cards in the future.”

A newly hatched chick was seen seeking shelter under Pepper in July 2026 at Waukegan. The genders of the three chicks hatched locally will be identifiable next year, once their distinctive features develop, Lueck clarified.

The plovers in Waukegan also include Frankie and Buddy, this year’s newcomers from Montrose Beach, grandchildren of Monty and Rose. These pioneering pair were celebrated for launching a successful breeding effort in Chicago, unseen for over seven decades.

Lueck emphasized the importance of raising awareness about piping plovers, noting, “Highlighting these delicate birds aids numerous other plants and animals. Boosting recognition benefits various ecological aspects.”