About
The Florida Scrub-Jay (Alphelocoma coerulescens) rarely go further than a few miles from where they hatched, and can be found in oak scrub and scrubby flatwoods in the highest and driest parts of central Florida. Florida Scrub-Jays can be 9 to 11 inches tall, and weigh up to 3 ounces. Despite their small size, these noble birds are aggressive when going up against a predator, mobbing the threat away in groups.
Importance
These birds are the only endemic bird species to the state of Florida, meaning that it cannot be found anywhere else. They are truly one-of-a-kind. The Scrub-Jay ultimately indicate the health of the scrub ecosystem, which habitat destruction has already fractured.
Threats
Human development has fragmented the scrub ecosystem, leaving scrub-jays and other species vulnerable. This habitat destruction has led to a decline in their population as the scrub ecosystem slowly begins to vanish with fire suppression. This habitat relies on regular fires to control plant growth and maintain the low vegetation and open land that the species of this environment rely on for survival.
How Can I Help?
To learn more about the Florida Scrub-Jay, see what is being done to protect them, and how you can get involved, here are a few Florida-based organizations that focus on protecting these birds:
The Florida Scrub-Jay Conservation is a group that is made up of scrub-working groups, which come together to plan, address conservation issues, monitor habitats and wildlife, research and reach solutions regarding conservation. These working groups and meetings are completely open to the public, and anyone can get involved!
The American Bird Conservancy is an organization that is dedicated to conserving wild birds and their habitats across the Americas. They have protected around 1.1 million acres of habitat and improved conservation management. They accept donations and offer membership programs in order to continue their great work.
The Florida Wildlife Federation is a statewide non-profit conservation organization that seeks to safeguard Florida’s wildlife, wild spaces and water. They are committed to “taking action today to prevent irreversible loss tomorrow.” This organization helps to provide ways for Floridians to get involved and have a say in what happens to our state, whether that’s volunteering with them, participating in events, and staying engaged in policies.
Sources – allaboutbirds.org, floridamuseum.ufl.edu, floridawildlifefederation.org
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