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Posted by Robin Diaz on 11:18:56 03/05/08
The DERM Virginia Key Ecosystem Restoration Area is up and running, holding much promise for good birding. _Miami Herald_ ran an excellent article on February 11 with an overview and comments by the project's designer/facilitator, Gary Milano. In 2 short surveys, I accumulated 47 species, including Roseate Spoonbill, Peregrine Falcon, Broad-winged Hawk, Sora, Great Black-backed Gull and Great Black-Hawk. The flush channel will be opened next month, making some of the newly planted marsh areas tidal or brackish.
The 4 areas within the 70-acre project are: boardwalk marsh, freshwater wetlands, beach/dune area and old mangrove hammock. The project is adjacent to the City of Miami's hammock restoration, supervised by Juan Fernandez. This area is maturing and combined with VKERA, will provide great birding.
I will keep a bird list so please contact me if you'd like a copy. Likewise, please let me know of your sightings. After entering Rickenbacker Causeway (fee), go just past Seaquarium and turn left at the light. This is just before Bear Cut Bridge (small bridge). The NOAA building (wave to Bonnie "Snow Goose" Ponwith as you drive past) is on the north side and UM Rosenstiel School is on the south side. Parking is free and you will notice that "turtle lights" are used instead of the usual tall, bright parking lot lights. The park is open sunrise to sunset.
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