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Rynchops niger
Black skimmer nesting ground. Note the rope and pinkish tie (was probably red originally) in the foreground. This denotes the no trespassing zone. Since black skimmers normally breed on sandbanks and sandy beaches, they are nesting on a beach that was unaffected by the oil spill. It is unknown if this is there normal nesting site.
Tropical to subtropical, breeding on sandbanks and sandy beaches of the Americas.
The Black Skimmer is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Black Skimmer nesting grounds are protected.
Spotted on Jun 24, 2011
Submitted on Jun 26, 2011
5 Comments
These are called scrape nests I think. Since the skimmer makes the depression, I think it fits in this mission perfectly.
Done! I wasn't sure if it applied as the nest is a depression.
Please consider putting this wonderful spotting into the Animal Architecture mission at http://www.projectnoah.org/missions/8082...
This nesting site was a surprise as I came upon it. It was clearly roped off and signage posted. Strangely enough, there were fake (wooden) skimmers in the area as well. I suppose they were placed there to help attract the real skimmers to this location. The pictures don't do it justice, but there are some nice dunes and hammock in that area.
Great spotting! Go back next year and see if they are there as well. You also have sea turtle nesting grounds nearby as well.