Today it is an endangered species. Small waterbirds resting atop a limestone outcropping in Chokoloskee Bay. Many small waterbirds are seen along Florida's beaches and waterways. A snowy egret foraging along the roots of a red mangrove. Snowy egrets use their distinguishing yellow feet to stir up food and quickly spear it on their long, pointed beak.
Many waterbirds sit and build nests on posted signage within Bay waters.
Here a double-crested cormorant is trying to secure a spot on the post. An empty osprey nest on a channel marker platform. Most ospreys build nests in tall trees, but the osprey will use man made structures as well. Royal terns atop a channel marker. Royal terns have orange beaks, tufted black feathers on the back of the head and forked tails.