Last week, Audubon of Florida Everglades Policy Associate Jane Graham testified in front of the South Florida Water Management District Governing Board on behalf of the critically endangered Everglade Snail Kite. Although the results of the meeting were not what we wanted or what is needed to improve the lives of the endangered and threatened wildlife that call Lake Okeechobee home, Audubon is dedicated to continuing the fight for these imperiled species.

“It is disheartening that the pleas of over 1,100 citizens who called on the District to stop pumping water out of the already dangerously low Lake Okeechobee were not heeded. Science shows us that it is crucial that Florida does everything possible to maintain healthy water levels in our great lake. Water management decisions that are indifferent to the Everglade Snail Kite’s fate may lead to species displacement for years…or worse, extinction,” said Everglades Policy Associate Jane Graham, adding, “Audubon needs supporters now more than ever as we work to improve water levels and quality in the Greater Everglades. We need their vocal support to help bring these issues to the forefront.”

The Everglade Snail Kite is entering a critical time period. Many nests have failed and now fledglings and adults are at risk of starvation. The next few months will determine whether this iconic bird of the Everglades will have the ability to survive on Lake Okeechobee this year and for years to come. Your help is needed. Please friend the Everglade Snail Kite on Facebook and help tell this Florida bird’s tragic story.

Thank you for all your help.