Brown Pelican
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Louisiana’s state bird, the brown pelican, is an icon of coastal waters. Across Louisiana, brown pelicans can be seen flying low over the waves in single file, gliding in unison. After being pushed to the edge of extinction due to the use of DDT and other pesticides in the 1970s, this species is now a conservation success story. Although brown pelicans benefit from many project types, nesting island restoration projects are particularly important. The restoration of Queen Bess Island has …
Mottled Duck
The loss and salinization of wetlands across the Gulf Coast have had serious impacts on the population of this non-migratory species. Unlike most waterfowl, mottled ducks are almost never seen in large flocks, generally traveling in pairs or small groups. They make their home in open marsh ecosystems, like fresh or brackish ponds adjacent to the coast, rather than in salt marsh. Projects like sediment diversions and marsh creation will restore productive habitat for the mottled duck to thrive.
Redfish
Redfish, technically named red drum, are a favorite and staple for Louisiana coastal fishermen and cuisine. The fish’s nickname comes from its reddish-brown body color, and often have one or two black dots on or near its tail. It’s common to hear males making a “drumming” sound with their bodies during spawning season, which is from August to October, in coastal marshes and lakes. Smaller, young redfish can be found in brackish estuaries, while adults live in more open ocean, …
Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle
Considered one of the smallest sea turtles, Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtles are also the most endangered. Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtles were believed to be severely impacted by the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. Other threats include getting caught in fishing trawls and nets. Good news for Louisiana, however, these small reptiles were recently observed nesting on the Chandeleur Islands for the first time in 75 years! The turtles are often found in estuarine and offshore waters in the Gulf …
Bald Eagle
With its large dark brown body, snowy-white head and fearsome yellow talons and bill, the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is one of the most recognizable raptors in the United States. The eagle’s preference for forested wetlands makes it representative of healthy upper estuary habitat and its role as an apex predator has a cascading effect on local ecosystems. The Southern Bald Eagle (H. l. leucocephalus), the nominate subspecies, is found across the southern United States, including in Louisiana. Unlike many …