Happy Endangered Species Day! Today is a day to celebrate and learn about these endangered plants and animals and what you can do to help protect them. While you're exploring the Buffalo River, take a look at the habitat restoration projects that were designed to provide habitat to some endangered species here in New York State.
The Toe of Katherine Street restoration project regraded and stabilized 1200 linear feet of shoreline to prevent erosion and provide access to wildlife. This included installing nesting areas for native turtles, like the Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera) - a species of special concern locally.
Since the restoration, we have observed potential nesting activity at this site. You can help protect this species and its habitat by participating in a #SoloSweep. Learn more about the Spiny Softshell Turtle here.
Potential nesting activity at the Toe of Katherine Street Restoration Site
Photo credit: Michael J. McGraw, Applied Ecological Services