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HALIFAX
RIVER AUDUBON
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revised
5/12/08 |
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The Limpkin is a large, inconspicuous bird standing about 26 inches tall which is found in wooded and brushy swamps. Apple snails are the staple of the Limpkin's diet. The Limpkin is an able swimmer but usually feeds by wading in shallow water, foraging by sight and touch, probing muddy surfaces for snails. When the bird captures a snail, it uses its bill to remove the snail from the shell -- often in 20 seconds or less. Although not typically colonial nesters, Limpkins may gather in loose groups. They are territorial and will defend a good territories year-round. A poorer territory will only be defended during breeding. During courtship, pairs rest and feed together, with the male extracting a snail from the shell and feeding it to the female.
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Limpkins build
saucer-shaped nests up to 2 feet wide in a variety of sites from
ground level to high in trees. Prime nesting ground is
over water in marshes, mangroves or woody swamps. The nest
is made up of whatever plant material is available in the
surrounding habitat. The foundation is made of twigs and
covered with woven dried rushes or cattails and lined with
grass. They also build a platform next to the nest
where precocial young are guided so they can learn to forage.
By the early 1900s, the Limpkin was nearly extinct in Florida. It was considered a good meal, was loud, tame and slow in flight, making it an easy target. The draining of numerous swampy areas depleted their habitat. Better environmental awareness and restoration of wetlands has assisted the Limpkin to make a comeback of sorts. The population today is relatively stable. Our thanks to Donna Faylo, member of Orange Co. Audubon, for sharing her photos. |
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Webmaster: paulawehr@bellsouth.net The photos and information on this page are the property of Halifax River Audubon and may not be reproduced or distributed without the express written consent of Halifax River Audubon. |
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