bird takes over daytona beach......

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funny stuff, found a prime spot near the pier and took over

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there's a video in the link.....

http://www.wftv.com/news/19770589/detail.html

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Two little birds are creating a big problem on the beach in Volusia County. A pair of endangered Black Skimmers has built a nest in the most popular part of Daytona Beach just north of the pier (see map). Now people on the beach have to steer clear.

Among the tourists and famous resorts, there's one odd bird out at Daytona Beach with a good portion of the beach all to herself. The endangered Black Skimmer, which wildlife officials say usually travels in a flock, has laid an egg in the middle of all the action near Oceanwalk and Volusia County believes the birds are becoming regulars.

"This is actually the third year in a row we've had a single solitary pair nest on our sand," said Jennifer Winters, Volusia County Conservation Service.

The Skimmers cannot be moved, so a 100-by-200 foot perimeter was set up around their nest, which has caused a commotion at the beach.

"In the midst of this big resort that one little bird makes so much difference," one beach visitor said.

The Volusia County Environmental Service tried to lure the birds to Ponce Inlet by setting up decoys, but the birds wanted to go to Daytona Beach. Maybe it's because they like the touristy attractions.

Whatever the reason, wildlife officials are not sure why the Black Skimmers come to Daytona Beach, but they said last year that Daytona Beach was the only location on the east coast of Florida where an egg successfully hatched.

"These guys seems like they're odd balls or odd birds, but they seem to be doing something right," Winters said.

The Black Skimmers will spend about two months at Daytona Beach until their hatchlings are old enough to leave. The nesting area near the pier will be close for the time being.