AWE Biology Blog

Brown pelican chicks are growing fast while other species are just starting to build nests. Please give space to the Clam Factory Rookery on the south end of Marco Island. Tour boats parked too close can lead to chicks jumping out of nests and disturbance to birds foraging. Boats have been frequently spotted going full speed through no wake zones where dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles are feeding. Please follow the local signage!

Photos: Brittany Piersma

Have you seen some different colored birds on the beach? We are entering shorebird nesting season. Breeding plumage is starting to pop on different species including those that still need to migrate north! Check out the beautiful black-bellied plovers, dunlin, and short-billed dowitchers. As always, sharing the beach with birds and giving them space can help for both nesting and migration. Interested in helping us with shorebird outreach this summer? Email us at [email protected]!

Photos by Brittany Piersma