Broken bottles, discarded cans and plastic left on Nahoon beach by partying young people during the summer season are a threat to wildlife in the area, including the white-fronted plover.
The coastal white-fronted plover is found mostly at sandy beaches and is an integral part of the ecosystem.
They are one of only two resident shorebird species found regularly on sandy beaches.
Ward 18 councillor, Jason MacDowell, said litter resulting from under-age drinking at the beach had affected the birds’ nesting areas.
In a Facebook post, he said: “Nahoon river and beaches were invaded by ill-behaved youngsters drinking massive amounts of alcohol and just dumping their mess all over the beach.
“Sadly, most of the waste seems to have already washed out into the river and beautiful oceans.
“The wildlife don’t stand a chance with parties taking place in the dunes right on top of where the plovers nest.
“This should not have happened. It could have been prevented.
“BCM, you have failed your residents once again.”
East London Museum ornithologist, Dr Philip Whittington, said beachgoers should not compromise the safety and habitat of wildlife.
He said: “Firstly, discarded cans and bottles present a potential danger to wildlife and to other people.
“Secondly, anyone under the influence of alcohol is likely to be less careful of avoiding nesting birds or other organisms on the beach, which can result in nest failure or injury and even death of chicks and other small organisms.
“It may also to lead to increased trampling of coastal vegetation.
“Thirdly, rowdy behaviour associated with drinking may cause disturbance to nesting birds and is offensive to other members of the public.
“Keep a close eye on the ground to avoid treading on eggs or small chicks: both rely on their excellent camouflage to avoid detection.
“Keep to demarcated areas, if there are any, for recreation.
“Dogs should be kept on a lead as they may be a threat to plover chicks.
“Please recycle as much plastic as possible or if it cannot be recycled dispose of it in waste bins rather than just throwing it on the ground, where it may get washed into rivers, drains and end up in the sea.
“Birds and other animals can become entangled in waste material, especially plastic.”
