Sebastian Eagles threatened by development!Commentary by Richard Baker |
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| This year, we were at first saddened as in our area in Sebastian, we saw where the Eagles nest and tree we have been observing for many years had been destroyed by the hurricanes. But thanks to a concerned citizen, we found that they have built another magnificent nest in a handsome pine tree not far way. A beautiful female was sitting on the nest with the male proudly being protective and looking for a meal close by. This was not an easy feat as development is rapidly covering over this major wildlife area with houses, cement, and St. Augustine grass. |  |
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The Eagles were able to adjust to the two hurricanes and build a better nest in a better tree nearby, but they cannot adjust to the proposed and approved endless creeping sprawl of housing developments. The area where the Eagles are nesting is already platted for development. Our important habitats and wildlife can adjust to storms, fires, and earthquakes and survive, but many of our plant and animal species will not be able to adapt to their land becoming covered over with cancerous concrete with parking lots and spacious or overcrowded homes. |
| How can we help everyone be accustomed to living with the diversity
of native species in their back yards? Or do we need to find ways to help
developers to preserve more of our native vegetation and building green?
One way we can act now is to be present and participate in our local government
(i.e. at the planning and zoning, city, and county commission meetings)
to facilitate saving these biodiverse areas. If you could join me even
1 or 2 times per year when really needed, to speak up briefly on issues
before the planning and zoning, city, and county commission meetings,
please call me at 388-1572 or email me at rhba@bellsouth.net.
Excerpted from Richard Baker's The President's Hoot. |
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All images and
text copyright 2005 Pelican Island Audubon Society. Web Outreach: Bob Montanaro |
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