Business Owners Charged for Bird Harassment with Mothballs

Two business owners in St. Pete Beach, Florida, have been arrested and charged following an incident where they allegedly attempted to harass protected shorebirds using mothballs. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) stated that approximately 1,500 mothballs were scattered near a beachfront hotel property and an adjacent bar back in April.

The placement and timing of the mothballs, which contain toxic naphthalene, strongly suggested an intentional effort to deter nesting shorebirds. Officials described the method as a particularly harmful deterrent. The FWC indicated that the suspects may have been motivated by a desire to remove nesting areas that were fenced off to protect eggs and chicks.

Investigators gathered evidence, including a text message exchange between the suspects discussing beach access, which contributed to the charges. Despite the alleged efforts to disturb them, the shorebird colony was unharmed and remained in the area, showcasing their resilience against human interference.

The men, identified as property owner Robert Monroe and the owner of Chris's Beachside Bar, face charges including commercial littering and attempted take of a state-listed species by harassment. This case serves as a reminder of the wildlife present on Florida's beaches.

As of August 2, 2026, the legal proceedings against the business owners are ongoing.