As Sarasota prepares for the annual powerboat races off Lido Beach this weekend, environmental groups say it s important to remember that the sand and surf are shared with some pretty important neighbors shorebirds.
Many of these birds are facing dire losses of nesting habitat due to increased development and human activity on beaches.
“Small actions can make a big difference for wildlife,” said Shea Armstrong, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission s Florida shorebird alliance coordinator. “By taking a few steps to limit disturbance to nesting waterbirds, we can help ensure they have a successful nesting season and that they will be around for our children and grandchildren to enjoy.”
You can help Florida’s nesting waterbirds
As nesting season begins for waterbird species across the state, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is sharing five easy ways that members of the public can help conserve these vulnerable bird species.
Many shorebird and seabird species, such as the least tern, nest directly on beaches across the state where their eggs and chicks are well camouflaged in the sand. Colonies of wading birds, such as herons, will typically nest on mangrove islands off the coast. Biologists stress that the most important thing for waterbirds during nesting season is space. When these birds are disturbed and forced to leave their nests, their eggs and chicks are left vulnerable to heat and predators.
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