Birds that Nest on the Alafia Bank

SWFWMD Photo

The Alafia Bank Bird Sanctuary is composed of two spoil (manmade) islands south of the mouth of the Alafia River.

Each spring, between 6,000 and 16,000 pairs of waterbirds nest in clusters or “colonies” on the islands.

Birds that Nest on the Alafia Bank

Sixteen species nest on the islands, making this bird colony one of the most diverse colonies in the United States.

Birds that Nest on the Alafia Bank

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission lists the Alafia Bank Bird Sanctuary as the most important nesting colony in the state.

Birds that Nest on the Alafia Bank

This is because of its population size, its species diversity, and the longevity of the colony’s use by nesting birds.

Birds that Nest on the Alafia Bank

Species include brown pelicans, snowy egrets, little blue herons, tricolored herons, reddish egrets, white ibis, roseate spoonbills, and American oystercatchers.

Birds that Nest on the Alafia Bank

Brown Pelican

Snowy Egret

Little Blue Heron

Immature LittleBlue Heron

Tricolored Heron

Reddish Egret

White Ibis

Roseate Spoonbill

American Oystercatcher

FWC Photo