Egmont Key Bird Stewards
Volunteers Needed!
Black Skimmers, Least Terns, American Oystercatchers, White Ibis, Brown Pelicans, Wilson’s Plovers, Sandwich Terns, Royal Terns, Pelicans, Laughing Gulls and many more have nested on the Refuge islands and beaches. Beautiful wading birds grace the shoreline including the seldom seen white morph Reddish Egret.
Most people don’t know that our birds nest on the beaches. They are familiar that sea turtles nest, but not the birds. Interested beach visitors ask why we are sitting under an umbrella with beach chairs and binoculars. Then they discover the roped off bird areas. As stewards, we help educate beach visitors about the beach nesting birds. We keep our eyes open for dogs on the beaches. Dogs can decimate a nesting colony in just a few minutes. We also keep alert for beach visitors who unknowingly wander into closed areas. Stewards do make a difference for a nesting colony.
Interested in volunteering as a bird steward? We’d love to have you! Please complete the form below and we'll reach out to you with details and next steps. Thank you!
Hurricane Recovery Update - Reopening Notice
Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge is now open, though all structures in or near the lighthouse area and within the private property of the Pilots Compound remain off limits. Significant damage remains from recent hurricanes, please exercise caution while visiting the refuge and obey all posted warnings and direction by Service staff and Law Enforcement Officers.