Erika Zambello

Erika Zambello

Communications Director

As Communications Director for Audubon Florida, Erika coordinates engagement, communication, and publications for the Sunshine State's conservation, coastal, policy, research, Center, and sanctuary programs. Based in Tallahassee, Erika works across the state to tell stories of resiliency, and how birds and people are affected by climate change, development, hurricanes, and more. Prior to Audubon, Erika worked in communications and project management for regional environmental organizations and local government. Erika holds a bachelor's degree from Cornell University, and master's degrees from Duke University and the University of West Florida. 

Erika can be reached at erika.zambello@audubon.org.

Articles by Erika Zambello

Flamingos Remain in Florida, but Concerns Grow Across Their Range
Everglades

Flamingos Remain in Florida, but Concerns Grow Across Their Range

— In 2023, Florida experienced a pink wave: Hundreds of American Flamingos blew into Florida and across the United States on the winds of Hurricane Idalia. In a February 2024 survey, staff and birders around the Sunshine State counted more than 100 flamingos—giving hope that some of those blown off course in the storm had chosen to remain in Florida. In November, Mark Cook, PhD, of the South Florida Water Management District, spotted a flock 62 birds strong in Florida Bay.
Storm Update: Shorelines Shift after Hurricanes Helene and Milton
Coastal Conservation

Storm Update: Shorelines Shift after Hurricanes Helene and Milton

— Audubon's coastal team is monitoring sites for impacted beach-nesting bird habitat.
Vehicle Strikes Threaten Sea and Shorebird Families
Coastal Conservation

Vehicle Strikes Threaten Sea and Shorebird Families

— Fatalities have been recorded across Florida this summer.
Bird Bands Lead to Better Conservation for Sea and Shorebirds
Coastal Conservation

Bird Bands Lead to Better Conservation for Sea and Shorebirds

— Reported bird bands provides critical date to researchers, land managers, and policy makers.
Bird Banding Data Highlights Sea and Shorebird Connectivity between Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Coasts
Coastal Conservation

Bird Banding Data Highlights Sea and Shorebird Connectivity between Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Coasts

— Many species of sea, shore, and wading birds spend parts of their lives on both the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts. Such connectivity is critical when tackling projects that aim to restore damage from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, as well as future storms and human-caused disasters.
When Hurricanes and Coastal Construction Alter Bird Habitat – How Do They Fare?
Coastal Conservation

When Hurricanes and Coastal Construction Alter Bird Habitat – How Do They Fare?

— Even if the perfect breeding and foraging habitat exists, birds today must contend with disturbance from people, pets, and predators like coyotes and crows.
Lillian Cunningham, Host of Washington Post's Field Trip, on Spark Birds and Everglades Restoration
News

Lillian Cunningham, Host of Washington Post's Field Trip, on Spark Birds and Everglades Restoration

— Lillian Cunningham interviewed Audubon's Jerry Lorenz to talk wildlife, Everglades restoration, and the future of South Florida. In turn, we asked her about her work, travel, and spark bird.
Flamingos Arrive with Hurricane Idalia
Coastal Conservation

Flamingos Arrive with Hurricane Idalia

— Small flocks and single flamingos have been seen up and down the Sunshine State this week.
Banded Red Knot Illustrates Importance of Migration Flyway
Coastal Conservation

Banded Red Knot Illustrates Importance of Migration Flyway

— The Coastal team's Kylie Wilson spots a banded Red Knot on Lido Key.