Message From Lori Oberhofer, Wildlife Biologist Everglades National Park

HOMESTEAD, Fla.: In a continuing effort to protect nesting Roseate Spoonbills, effective immediately the west side of Palm Key is closed to all access. In order to minimize disturbance and maximize nesting success for the Roseate Spoonbill and other nesting wading birds, a seasonal closure is needed.

Palm Key is located in Florida Bay approximately 2.5 nautical miles southwest of Flamingo. The area within 150 feet of the western edge of Palm Key as marked by buoys will be closed to all entry. Roseate Spoonbills are currently nesting in trees along the western edge of this island. Disturbance from boating activity can flush adult birds off nests leaving eggs and chicks exposed to extreme hot/cold temperatures and predators such as crows or vultures. A seasonal closure will protect birds and nests from disturbance.

The temporary closure will be removed once biologists determine that the nesting colony is no longer active.

For additional information, contact park information at 305-242-7700 (during regular business hours, Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.).

WHAT: Emergency closure of the west side of Palm Key, to protect nesting birds in this area from human disturbance.

WHEN: Immediately, until the end of nesting season and the announcement is made that the closure buoys are removed.

WHERE: Palm Key is located in Florida Bay approximately 2.5 nautical miles southwest of Flamingo.

Media Note - Photo Credit National Park Service, Rodney Camauf

This and other park releases are available at http://www.nps.gov/ever/parknews/newsreleases.htm

More information on Everglades National Park can be found on the park website at http://www.nps.gov/ever

Roseate Spoonbill Courtesy of Everglades National Park Service, Rodney Camauf

Palm Key Restricted Area Courtesy of Everglades National Park Service, Rodney Camauf