Feb. 12, 2026: nearly 150 residents gathered in the Meridian Ballroom at Admiral’s Cove in Jupiter, FL, for a presentation hosted by the External Affairs Committee titled “The Hidden Treasure of Admiral’s Cove: A Living Bird Sanctuary.” My heartfelt thanks go to AC residents and long-time dear friends, John and Carole Lee De Jong, for the gracious invitation to speak and for their warm support in bringing this program to the community.

We began with a sampling of the everyday birds seen along fairways, canals, and marina edges, familiar species that quietly enrich daily life within the gates.

The heart of the presentation focused on Bird Island, a remarkable sanctuary nestled within the property. In winter, this protected island supports a robust communal roost of more than 4,000 Fish Crows, creating one of the most impressive nightly gatherings in Southeast Florida. Aerial and thermal imagery helped illuminate the scale and coordination of this spectacle.

We also explored the seasonal transition into spring, when Bird Island transforms into a vibrant breeding wading bird rookery hosting over 16 nesting wading and water bird species.

The afternoon concluded with a lively and thoughtful Q&A session and warm, enthusiastic feedback, a clear reflection of the pride residents feel in this hidden natural treasure flourishing right at home.