WEST PALM BEACH — From snail kites and bald eagles to burrowing owls and scrub-jays, birds serve an important role in the comprehensive effort to protect and restore America’s Everglades.

Did you know the South Florida Water Management District monitors and tracks birds to better understand our unique ecosystems?

Wading birds, in particular, are a key indicator for restoration success. When water is in the right places, wading birds are having banner nesting seasons – an important sign that our ecosystems are responding positively to the right water levels.

SFWMD ecologists regularly monitor several wading bird species, including ibises, wood storks, herons, roseate spoonbills and egrets. The team tracks the timing, location and distribution of wading bird nesting, as well as foraging patterns, in addition many other activities.

Ensuring the protection of birds on our project sites is very important, including when these projects are being constructed. The SFWMD’s wildlife management staff conduct comprehensive trainings for staff and contractors that cover:

• The importance of the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act,
• A walkthrough of state and federally-listed species that they might encounter on a project site,
• What to do if/when you see a protected bird species,

• How to avoid disturbing or otherwise negatively impacting these species and nesting activities.

In addition to trainings, SFWMD staff also monitor project sites for birds and other wildlife while instituting safety protections such as reduced speed limits on project sites. You may even notice barriers, instructions and signage to alert site visitors of nearby protected species.

It’s important to note that all studies of birds and all construction activities are completed under appropriate state and federal permits to ensure the protection of our natural resources and wildlife.