As the sandbars shifted out near Kice Shoals off of Marco Island, the area became a very popular spot for both recreation and wildlife. Audubon Western Everglades’ (AWE) biologist Brittany Piersma recognized the need for more outreach to help protect both nesting and migratory bird species.
For the last three years, Brittany Piersma of AWE was able to increase her own surveys and education as well as hire a seasonal steward in both the summer and winter stewardship programs. This summer, Matt Minio is the shorebird steward for AWE and has been kayaking out with incredible volunteers to educate the public on Kice Shoals.
They have been documenting the number of visitors, tour companies, disturbances, predators, and bird species. The three species with the potential to nest in the area are Black Skimmers, Least Terns, and Wilson's Plovers. With habitat loss and erosion, giving these birds space is key in ensuring they have a successful summer. Other birds are still migrating north or remaining year-round in our area. American Oystercatchers, Royal Terns, Laughing Gulls, Black-bellied Plovers, Willets, and Ruddy Turnstones are just some of those that we see.
According to Minio, “Our team works together to rescue any injured or sick birds and get them to the von Arx Hospital as soon as possible. We've been seeing lots of skimmers, playful least and royal terns, and even quite a few oyster catchers hanging around! The help of volunteers is invaluable to the conservation of these amazing birds! Any and all help is very much appreciated.
To support the continuation of this research and public education, feel free to check out AWE’s website at https://www.audubonwe.org/difference.
Keywords
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