Potential Problems of Bird Predation for Fish Culture in Florida

Abstract

Florida offers excellent potential for aquacultural production of finfish; however, the abundance and diversity of fish-eating birds in Florida may present problems to successful fish production. From a survey of available literature, we identified 35 avian species that potentially can adversely affect production at fish farms in Florida. We have summarized pertinent aspects of the life histories of those species and have estimated daily food-consumption rates from energetic models. Twelve avian species feed entirely on fish and at least 21 additional species include fish in their diet. Twenty bird species had estimated summer food-consumption rates exceeding 100 g/d. Although only three species were categorized as abundant in Florida, almost all avian species that are potential predators at aquacultural facilities can attain high densities if suitable nesting habitats are available.