Limpkin
Aramus guarauna
The Limpkin’s bill is shaped to remove apple snails from their shells.
The Limpkin’s bill is shaped to remove apple snails from their shells. Observe quietly and keep people and pets away from nests, chicks, and feeding areas. Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Adults, eggs, young, and active nests must not be harmed.
Habitat:
Freshwater Wetlands, Lakes and Ponds, Canals and Ditches
Area / Range:
Central Florida, South Florida
Diet:
Apple snails, freshwater mussels, insects, frogs, and other aquatic animals.
Behavior:
Walks slowly through shallow water and vegetation while searching for snails. Calls loudly at night.
Day, Night, Dawn, Dusk
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Observe from a respectful distance in suitable Florida habitat.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Protected migratory bird
Safety Level:
Harmless. Respect Nests
Safety Information:
Observe quietly and keep people and pets away from nests, chicks, and feeding areas.
Benefits to Property:
Consumes native and invasive apple snails in Florida wetlands.
Property Concerns:
Loud nighttime calls, shoreline clearing, pesticides, and disturbance near nests create conflicts.
Fun Fact:
The Limpkin’s bill is shaped to remove apple snails from their shells.
Wildlife Laws:
Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Adults, eggs, young, and active nests must not be harmed.
Identification:
Long-legged brown wetland bird covered with bold white streaks and equipped with a long slightly curved bill.
Credits:
Facts: wildlife reference. Images: Wikimedia Commons.