Snake Key -- The New Rookery

photo credit: Larry Woodward, Deputy Refuge Manager

The new wading bird rookery at Snake Key had a great year with approximately 3,000-4,000 successful nests of all the usual species. After the birds abandoned the long-time rookery at Seahorse Key last year, many of them went to Snake Key. Luckily, the Refuge has been able to maintain several islands that are attractive for nesting and provide alternative rookery areas when needed in such unusual and remarkable circumstances.

Of note on Snake Key this year was a high number of Roseate Spoonbills nesting - 20 - 30 nests!  Hard to believe as the Spoonbills were first recorded nesting in the area just 6 years ago at Seahorse Key with only 3 nests.  The Refuge believes that a seasonal closure at Snake Key during  next year's nesting season will be important to protect this growing rookery area.  The Cedar Key Audubon Society Chapter is working in partnership with the Refuge to "adopt" the rookery and assist with signage and surveys.

Many Friends members are also members of Cedar Key Audubon Chapter and we will be working together on several activities in coming months.