Florida Migratory Bird Field Office

Established in Spring 2009 and providing biological review and assistance on wildlife habitat and population management within Florida and the Caribbean Islands, with emphasis on trust/migratory bird species.  The primary office is located in Tallahassee, Florida.  We provide technical support and consultation to 28 National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs) in Florida, five NWRs in Puerto Rico, and three NWRs in the Virgin Islands to fulfill the purposes for which these refuges were established.  In addition, the FFO provides support to, and coordinates with, USFWS Ecological Services Offices, the US Geological Survey (USGS), other federal agencies, State of Florida (including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Department of Environmental Protection), local governments, other land managers, and non-profit environmental organizations such as the Audubon Society, The Nature Conservancy, Partners in Flight, Atlantic Coast Joint Venture, and Atlantic Flyway Council.  We also serve as a research liaison between NWRs, USGS, universities, and other institutions/organizations to increase the understanding and enhancement of species and habitats. 
Species of emphasis are bald eagles and other raptors, wading birds, waterfowl and other wetland species, shorebirds, pelagic birds, and passerines of concern.  Bald eagles were delisted in 2007 but remain protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, the Lacey Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.  The FFO includes staff dedicated to bald eagle permitting and biology within the entire USFWS Southeast Region to ensure continued eagle survival and success.  Staff also actively participate in the Junior Duck Stamp Program that educates students in kindergarten through high school about wetland and waterfowl conservation, and incorporates a visual arts curriculum with annual art contest.  We remain committed to the well-being, enrichment and continued success of migratory bird species, endangered species, other trust resources, and their habitats.