Piping plovers, one of the most endangered bird species in North America, have an unusual approach to nest-building: the male will dig a shallow bowl in the sand and if a female finds it acceptable, she’ll move in and camouflage it with shells and other beach debris. Great Lakes Untamed premieres October 12th at 8 PM. | Smithsonian Channel

While many shorebirds have wide distributions, the piping plover is a North American specialty, barely extending into Mexico in winter. Since many of these birds' nesting areas are subject to human disturbance or other threats, they are now considered endangered or threatened species in all parts of their range, which is why it’s vital for people to share the shore. | National Audubon Society