Is Sarasota home to one of the largest black skimmer bird populations in Florida?

Sarasota’s black skimmer population –– specifically the colony located on North Lido Beach –– tallies about 1,300 adult birds this year, accounting for nearly a fifth of the state’s roughly 6,800.

Black skimmers, which are a state-designated threatened species, typically reside in coastal areas such as beaches, making them vulnerable to human meddling. 

Humans are the main contributors in their population declines. The birds get easily spooked, so running or walking near them can cause them to abandon their colony. Though the nesting colony at Lido Beach is roped off, they often wander off toward the shore to rest and cool down.

Abby O’Donnell, Sarasota stewardship coordinator for Audubon Florida, a nonprofit dedicated to bird preservation, said beachgoers can protect the species by keeping their distance, not bringing dogs on the beach and taking trash with them. Trash can attract predators or blow through the colony and disturb the birds.