Audubon Florida has acquired the last private inholding on Lanark Reef, one of Florida’s most significant sites for declining coastal birds in Florida and a designated Important Bird Area.
This narrow barrier island off the coast of the Panhandle’s Franklin County provides essential habitat to some of the Gulf of Mexico’s most imperiled species. In spring and summer, it hosts a large breeding colony of Brown Pelicans, as well as nesting American Oystercatchers, Black Skimmers, Willets and more. In fall and winter, migrant and wintering birds like Red Knots, Piping and Snowy plovers, and more flock to the islands to feed and rest. Many of these species are rare and declining, listed as endangered or threatened by state or federal agencies.
In recent years, permits for septic tanks were issued with plans to develop condominiums on the fragile site. Audubon’s acquisition secures the entirety of Lanark Reef as a wildlife sanctuary.
“Lanark Reef has long been important to Florida’s iconic coastal landscape,” said Eric Draper, Audubon Florida’s executive director, “Audubon is proud to protect this remarkable habitat while it still exists.”
Many of the species benefitting from this acquisition are the same most affected by the Deepwater Horizon Disaster. Fittingly, funding for the purchase was provided by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation with revenue generated by the sale of oil recovered from the spill. Additionally, individuals from across the country made contributions to ensure the acquisition and management of this special place.
Visitors are encouraged to view the Reef from the comfort of their boats only. Nesting and wintering birds are exceptionally prone to disturbance by pedestrians and are easily flushed from their nests, leaving chicks and eggs vulnerable to the elements, predators, and crushing. A single disturbance can cause the failure of an entire colony, and cumulative disturbance of wintering birds can reduce their ability to survive their incredible spring migration and reproduce successfully. Additionally, shallow draughts make close approach to the Reef challenging and potentially damaging to seagrass beds. During nesting season, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission posts the island to prevent fatal disturbance of chicks and eggs.
“This dynamic island, shaped by wind and waves, is a glimpse of what was once common along the Gulf Coast: shifting sands and swaying marsh grass supporting abundant wildlife,” said Julie Wraithmell, Audubon’s Director of Wildlife Conservation. “Audubon looks forward to working with the local community and our partners to support this special piece of Florida for future generations.”
The public can sign up for updates on the Reef, coastal birds, Florida conservation issues and volunteer opportunities at http://fl.audubonaction.org.