A federally and state-threatened Roseate Tern chick receives a leg band as part of a conservation effort to track survival, migration, and habitat use.

MARATHON, FL – Year after year, the flat, gravel rooftop of the Monroe County Government Center in Marathon is an important seasonal nesting site for Least Terns, a state-designated threatened species, and occasionally Roseate Terns, which are a state and federally listed threatened bird.

The roof is actively managed to support nesting birds and is inspected before each nesting season to help ensure safe conditions for chicks. County staff also regularly conduct ground-based monitoring without disturbing the birds, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) biologists conduct rooftop visits for detailed nest counts.

This season, 36 Least Tern nests were identified on the rooftop.

“Rooftops offer some clear advantages for the birds,” said Environmental Resources Assistant Director Michael Roberts. “They’re typically free of beachgoers, dogs, and other ground-based disturbances and predators.”

In a recent visit, FWC and Monroe County Special Projects Manager Julie Cheon banded five Roseate Tern chicks to monitor survival rates, migratory patterns, and habitat use, which will generate vital data to support the long-term management and protection of these sensitive species.

Aside from one chick that required assistance recently, no chick rescues have been needed this season. There is a note on the front door to contact Roberts or FWC should you come across a chick in the parking lot while they are learning to fly.

FWC established the Qualified Rooftop Monitor Program to train volunteers to safely observe, document, and respond to rooftop-nesting birds. To learn more about how to support rooftop-nesting birds or become a Qualified Rooftop Monitor, visit

[livemarket market_name="KONK Life LiveMarket" limit=3 category=“” show_signup=0 show_more=0]