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skimfamily1

Black Skimmers

Stone Harbor, NJ

 

The Black Skimmer is Federally Endangered. The line is back up in case some late nesters come in October. This shot was taken quickly not near the line so I wouldn't disturb them. It has become a problem in this area and there is talk of possibly shutting down the area to the public. Audubon is involved in this project and posted this on their site:

 

Conservation Issues

Predation by red foxes and raccoons is common at Stone Harbor Point and Nummy Island. The biggest threat to nesting birds on Champagne Island, however, is disturbance from summer tourists. During peak season, as many as 80 boats and 400 people frequent the small island. The NJDEP regularly fences off large sections of the island and has increased patrol of the area by conservation officers to protect the nesting birds. Due to the diverse ownership of this site and the inability to effectively reduce disturbance, it is highly recommended that the entirety of this area be added to the adjacent Cape May Wildlife Management Area for permanent protection

 

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Uploaded on October 5, 2018
Taken on August 3, 2018