erika laughing with water in the background

Erika Zambello

Communications Director, 51ÁÔÆæÈë¿Ú Florida
About

As Communications Director for 51ÁÔÆæÈë¿Ú Florida, Erika coordinates engagement, communication, and publications for the Sunshine State's conservation, coastal, policy, research, center, and sanctuary programs. Based in Tallahassee, Erika works across the state to tell stories of resiliency, and how birds and people are affected by climate change, development, hurricanes, and more. Prior to 51ÁÔÆæÈë¿Ú, Erika worked in communications and project management for regional environmental organizations and local government. Erika holds a bachelor's degree from Cornell University, and master's degrees from Duke University and the University of West Florida. 

Articles by Erika Zambello

A tagged Black Skimmer rests amidst a mixed flock of gulls, terns, pelicans.
Spotted! Banded Black Skimmer Heralds Conservation Success
January 24, 2022 — Coastal team member Jeff Liechty discovered an interesting Black Skimmer during the Tampa Christmas Bird Count.
FLORIDA
A flamingo in a pool at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge.
Best Florida Bird of 2021
January 01, 2022 — What was your favorite Florida sighting of 2021? For Communications Director Erika Zambello, it was an American Flamingo.
FLORIDA
A group of Black-bellied Whistling Ducks standing at the edge of the water at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Photo: Alex Meinders.
Black-bellied Whistling Ducks are on the Move
December 01, 2021 — Changing landscapes and a changing climate have altered the range of Black-bellied Whistling Ducks.
FLORIDA
Roseate Spoonbill with wings outstretched
Climate Change Moves Roseate Spoonbills in Florida Bay
December 01, 2021 — Birds tell us that the impacts of climate change are here.
FLORIDA
Wood Stork. Photo: Lisa Squicciarini/51ÁÔÆæÈë¿Ú Photography Awards.
Florida Forever Program Sees Major Boost
July 22, 2021 — Florida Forever is the state’s premier land conservation program, acquiring parks and preserves to provide recreational opportunities, habitat for imperiled wildlife, and other benefits like water recharge and carbon sequestration. The Florida Wildlife Corridor is an ambitious conservation goal, aiming to create and connect natural area passages across the state, from north to south and also east to west.
FLORIDA
Lake Okeechobee.
51ÁÔÆæÈë¿Ú Florida Supports New Lake Okeechobee Water Management Plan - With Modifications
July 20, 2021 — The new schedule for Lake Okeechobee water management is especially important as new Everglades restoration projects come on line.
FLORIDA
Jacksonville at night. Photo: Pixabay.
Lights Out Northeast Florida Records Migration Collisions to Better Plan Dark Sky Initiatives
July 01, 2021 — Unfortunately, buildings and homes that keep bright lights on at night are a hazard, and millions of birds are lost to collisions each year.
FLORIDA
Hands write on pieces of paper, laptop in the background.
College Students and Recent Grads Use Op-Eds and Letters to the Editor to Inspire Action on Critical Environmental Issues
June 15, 2021 — Six students have worked with 51ÁÔÆæÈë¿Ú Florida to publish articles on native plants, plastics, pollution, and more.
FLORIDA
Natasza Fontaine and Robert Gundy birding in the Dry Tortugas.
Birding Duo Breaks Florida Big Year Record in 2020
April 07, 2021 — Natasza Fontaine and Robert Gundy criss-crossed the state looking for birds.
FLORIDA
Volunteer returns baby owl to its nest. Photo: Kristen Kosik.
A Nest Return Illustrates the Beginning of Baby Bird Season
February 23, 2021 — The Center for Birds of Prey takes in more than 200 raptor chicks every season.
FLORIDA