Treasure Island, Florida is a great place to see some of the most amazing wildlife in the country. Bird or bird watching is a popular attraction for many people due to the diversity of species that call these beaches home. In fact, the area can be a good place to watch birds that may not be native to the area. Several migratory patterns of birds pass through this region. There are some beautiful shorebirds to be seen along this stretch of coast and it is recommended that each birder take some time to enjoy these species.
There is also a collective effort in the community to make sure these birds last for generations to come, so always make sure to be careful and not disturb the natural habitat of these creatures. Many of Florida’s species are on the brink of danger and people should always make sure to enjoy the wildlife, while making sure that the natural system is preserved.
Gull laughs – During a trip to Treasure Island, you will undoubtedly see a lot of seagulls. These birds are everywhere and will do everything they can to get some of the lunch you brought ashore, so be careful. If you plan to feed the gulls, make sure you do so away from other beachgoers as these birds will flock around you and may disturb other beach guests.
Willet / Sandpiper Willet is another common species that can be found along the beaches of Treasure Island. This bird is part of the Sandpiper family and can easily be seen combing the beach in search of food. Willett’s population declined in the early 20th century due to hunting but has increased since that time. While the population is steadily increasing, Willet considers that it is still somewhat endangered.
black skimmer – These birds are a beautiful sight and can be seen flying low over the water and flinging the bottom of their bill into the water in order to catch food, and that’s what they got. The Black Skimmer has a black back with a white underside and is very distinctive with its bright orange bill that has a black leading edge.
terns – There are 3 different types of tern that can be found around Treasure Island. the Royal Turn It is a type of orange bills and can only be found near salt water. The Royal Tern is found around Treasure Island in the winter months and does not breed in the area. the gull tern It is also found along this stretch of coastal waters. These terns have a black bill and resemble gulls, hence the name. These terns breed in this area and can be found here in the summer months. Last but not least is the least dangerous It is the smallest species of American Tern. These terns also breed in the area and can be found during the summer months.
American oyster – These birds breed in the area and can be found walking along the beach in search of food all year round. The bird is large for a shorebird, with a bright red bill and long legs. In the 19th century, they became locally extinct in the Northeast due to hunting and egg-gathering, but then became protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.
Snowy white egret – This is a beautiful white heron that can be found around freshwater, as well as coastal areas such as Treasure Island. It can be very easy to quickly identify this bird because of its long black legs and yellow feet. The snowy egret has beautiful plumage during the breeding season. These birds have been hunted down by market hunters which has depleted the population to a dangerous level. These birds are now protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 as well.
Great blue heron – These birds can be found all over the country and are very common in Florida all year round. They can be found throughout the entire state around both fresh and salt waters. They are the largest American heron and have long legs. The great blue heron will walk slowly in shallow water while foraging until it quickly dives headfirst into fish.
brown pelican – Brown pelicans can be found year-round on Treasure Island and are very special birds. Many tourists enjoy taking pictures of these birds while they are floating on the water or when they are diving to catch fish. These pelicans are unique from the other six species because they are the only dark pelicans. They are also the only pelicans that dive from the air into the water in order to catch their food.
Ibis white These birds are found throughout the year on Treasure Island and are distinguished by their white body, bright red legs and bills. These birds also have black wing-tips that can usually only be seen in flight. The white ibis can be seen foraging along the coast for small crustaceans and crayfish.
Great white egret – This bird is also known as the great white heron or the great egret. These birds are long (up to 3.3 feet!) and all white with yellow beaks. The great egret can be found on Treasure Island throughout the year and can be found feeding in shallow waters on frogs, fish, and occasionally lizards. These birds are one of the sweetest and most beautiful that the Treasure Island area has to offer to birders.