by Denise Wauters
Each winter, Florida’s coastlines, bays, and backcountry waters become critical habitat for thousands of migratory shorebirds and seabirds — including many that overwinter right here in the Everglades region.
From February 6–12, 2026, birders and volunteers across the state will take part in the 18th annual Florida Winter Shorebird Survey. The effort is coordinated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and documents where birds spend the winter and how populations change over time.
The survey provides a once-a-year snapshot of shorebird and seabird distribution statewide, helping biologists identify long-term trends and pinpoint important wintering sites — especially for species that are state or federally listed.
Why it Matters Locally
Southwest Florida, including the Everglades and Ten Thousand Islands, is one of the most important wintering areas in the state. Mudflats, mangrove shorelines, sandbars, and shallow bays throughout the region support large numbers of migratory birds during the winter months, making local observations especially valuable.
How the Survey Works
Key Dates
- Survey window: February 6–12, 2026
- Data submission deadline: March 1, 2026
Participants sign up to survey specific shoreline or island transects and count birds during the designated survey window. Registration is handled through the Florida Shorebird Alliance’s Winter Shorebird Survey page. , where volunteers may select an existing survey transect or add a new one. Adding your name to the 2026 column for a listed transect confirms your participation.
After completing the survey, observers enter their counts into the Florida Shorebird Database managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The information collected helps guide future conservation and habitat protection efforts across Florida.
Questions about participation, transects, or survey protocols can be directed to the survey coordination team by email at horebird@myfwc.com.
