Communities

AIP’s 50th Anniversary Explore Amelia Nature Festival coincides with National Pollinator Week, an annual celebration to raise awareness of pollinators and the role they play in our ecosystems, economies, and agriculture. We’ve invited local beekeeper Pete Smith, also known as the Hive Pirate, to tell us all about bees during Thoughtful Tuesday at 5 pm June 18 in The Oaks, 203 Sea Marsh. Smith, a Florida Registered Beekeeper and a participant in the UF/IFAS Master Beekeeper Program, will also speak about his work producing honey on Amelia Island and Cumberland Island. Event check-in will begin at 4:30 pm with wine… Read More »

With nesting season underway for shorebirds, seabirds and wading birds, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is sharing tips with beachgoers on how to help protect our waterbirds while enjoying the shore. During this time of year, many shorebird and seabird species nest directly on beaches across the state where their eggs and chicks are well camouflaged in the sand. Colonies of wading birds, such as herons, will typically nest on mangrove islands off the coast. Because our state’s beaches and shorelines are critical for waterbird nesting, people enjoying time near the shore can play a big part… Read More »

Sea turtle nesting season began May 1 and will continue through October. To help protect these creatures, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recommends following these turtle-friendly practices. FWC has a helpful brochure on sharing the beach with sea turtles. Visit myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/sea-turtle/ for even more information on sea turtles. To report someone disturbing a sea turtle nest or an injured, dead or harassed sea turtle, call Wildlife Alert 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922) or report it online. Mobile phone users can text 847411 (Tip411) with keyword “FWC” and information about the violation or use the “FWC Wildlife Alert” app from the… Read More »