Story perspectives

Toxic Mothballs Investigated for Threat to Black Skimmers

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

On April 22, 2026, a Florida wildlife officer responded to mothballs spread near a condo on St. Pete Beach, noting their toxicity.
Audubon Florida and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission cleared the area.
Julie Wraithmell, Audubon Florida's executive director, said volunteers helped.
The agency is investigating whether the mothballs were newly scattered or leftovers, with Brian Ferguson, the case investigator, noting they may deter black skimmers from nesting.

1 of 1

Story summary

On April 22, 2026, a Florida wildlife officer responded to mothballs spread near a condo on St. Pete Beach, noting their toxicity.
Audubon Florida and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission cleared the area.
Julie Wraithmell, Audubon Florida's executive director, said volunteers helped.
The agency is investigating whether the mothballs were newly scattered or leftovers, with Brian Ferguson, the case investigator, noting they may deter black skimmers from nesting.