Two Florida businessmen have been criminally charged after allegedly scattering approximately 1,500 chemical-laden balls in an attempt to prevent rare birds from nesting there, Fox News reports.
Beachgoers first spotted the balls on St. Pete Beach in late April 2026. Staff from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, along with volunteers, collected about a thousand of them near the Plaza Beach Hotel. However, another 500 or so appeared on the sand the very next night.
Wildlife advocates were particularly concerned because black skimmers—a bird species protected in Florida—were attempting to establish a nesting colony at that location. These birds build their nests directly on the sand. Furthermore, the pesticide contained in the balls posed a potential danger to other animals and humans, including children.
The investigation led to bar owner Christopher Monroe and hotel owner Robert Chishon. Authorities believe the businessmen feared that the presence of the bird nests would result in a section of the beach being cordoned off, thereby limiting access for beachgoers and causing financial losses.
Investigators determined that Chishon had purchased a large quantity of mothballs shortly before the first balls appeared. Seized phones also revealed correspondence in which the men allegedly discussed the birds and ways to stop them from nesting. One message estimated potential losses from beach restrictions at $50,000.
Monroe and Chishon have been charged with illegal dumping and attempting to harm a protected animal species. If convicted, the men face up to five years in prison. According to FWC estimates, the birds themselves were likely unharmed, though their nesting was delayed. This could increase the risk to the chicks, as they will learn to fly later and may be more vulnerable during storms.
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