Miami Laker Rob Waterfield saw some Black Skimmers catching fish in the lake at the former Par 3 Golf Course that is bordered by Miami Lakes Drive and the northbound exit from the Palmetto Expressway.
“I saw the pair, and on another day there were four,” Waterfield said. “They were eating, going back and forth and eating fish. I’ve seen them before on Loch Andrews, in the wintertime.”
Black Skimmers, or Rynchops Niger, have uneven bills. While flying, the bird’s longer lower jaw plows along the surface of water and closes shut on fish, according to Audobon.com. It is found in coastal areas of North America and likes sandbars and beaches.
The plumage is black on top and white underneath and their beaks have bright orange bands. The birds’ head feathers are like a black mask that covers their eyes, which have vertical pupils that enable them to see, despite reflections from water and sand, Audobon said.
Black Skimmers are vulnerable to changes in climate. High heat can endanger young birds in a nest, and rising water levels can submerge their coastal habitats, Audobon said. To hear their calls, go to https://bit.ly/3WWJkNN. --Linda Trischitta Photos by Rob Waterfield.