Audubon Warden Carol Cassels captured this photo of an American Oystercatcher chick learning its trade under the watchful eye of its doting parent. Tampa Bay is one of the most important regions of the state for breeding and wintering of these declining birds. Audubon manages spoil islands in Hillsborough Bay as refuges for these and other shorebirds and seabirds.

Thanks to Warden Cassels in the great tradition of Audubon wardens, for her role in helping this chick get a good start in life!