Nov. 5 Monthly Program: Untangling Pelicans at the Skyway Pier

Presented by Becky Schneider, Regional Species Conservation Biologist, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Tampa Garden Club, 2629 Bayshore Blvd. Tampa 33629

Thursday, Nov. 5

6:30 pm – Potluck. Bring a dish to share

7:15 pm – Announcements

7:30 pm – Presentation

In person and on Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84959398693

Untangling Pelicans at Skyway Pier – notes from FWC’s effort to reduce pier fishing-related impacts on seabirds

Becky will present the actions taken by FWC staff to reduce the impacts of pier fishing on Tampa Bay’s brown pelican population. The presentation will highlight FWC’s Angler Ambassador Program, which has recently launched its second cohort of volunteers. Skyway Pier Angler Ambassadors are skilled pier fishers who are trained in safe methods of rescuing pelicans and avoiding serious harm.

Becky is an avian conservation biologist who has been working for FWC for the past 10 years to implement imperiled species conservation actions across Southwest Florida. Her work ranges from posting and monitoring shorebird nesting sites, to capturing and affixing radio transmitters to Burrowing Owls, conducting wading bird foraging surveys via airboat, leading the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow Working Group species recovery effort, and much more. When not at work, Becky enjoys spending time with her energetic two-year-old son who loves watching the birds at their neighborhood pond.