Meteorologist: Andrew Shipotofsky
•6/24/2026
SANIBEL, Fla. (WINK)— A bird not seen successfully nesting on the Sanibel Causeway in more than three decades is making a comeback.
For the first time since 1993, black skimmer chicks have hatched on the Sanibel Causeway, according to the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF).
"We now have black skimmers nesting and actually hatching chicks for the first time that we can find on record since 1993, thereabout," said SCCF Shorebird Biologist Audrey Albrecht.
The return of the birds highlights an unexpected environmental change following Hurricane Ian. The storm dramatically altered the causeway's landscape, replacing many tree-lined areas with wide stretches of sand that now provide valuable nesting habitat for shorebirds.
Black skimmers are listed as a state-threatened species in Florida and face increasing challenges from habitat loss.
"There are very limited spaces for them to nest these days," Albrecht said. "So when they have a nice space where they can nest safely, we want to make sure we protect that area."
The black skimmers are not the only birds benefiting from the changing landscape. Least terns returned to nest on the causeway a few years ago, giving conservationists hope that additional shorebird species could continue to rebound.
However, the recent stretch of intense heat across Southwest Florida is creating new challenges for the young chicks.
"If they're not able to find shade and get out of the heat, they can get heat stroke just like a person would, and it could kill them," Albrecht said.
To help protect the chicks, SCCF has placed small shade structures throughout the nesting area. The supplemental shelters provide relief from the sun and offer protection during rain events.
"We're just giving them a little bit of supplemental shade," Albrecht said. "Offering them a safe place to beat the heat and get out of the rain sometimes, too."
If all goes well, the chicks could take their first flights in the coming weeks. Even after they fledge, the young birds will continue to rely on their parents for several months as they learn to catch fish and survive on their own.
For conservationists, the successful nesting season is another encouraging sign that the Sanibel Causeway's post-Hurricane Ian transformation is creating important habitat for Florida's shorebirds.
