Key Biscayne, FL - A Florida man faces charges after allegedly harming a protected great white heron at Bill Baggs State Park in Key Biscayne.
According to records, 34-year-old Edgar Estuardo Valenzuela was arrested on Friday, January 20th, on charges of wounding an endangered species,
The incident reportedly took place earlier that day within the park.
According to an arrest report from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), officers responded to a call about an individual throwing rocks at a great white heron.
Witnesses stated that Valenzuela, who was fishing in the park, became agitated when the heron consumed his bait.
In response, he allegedly threw rocks at the bird, striking and severely injuring it.
Investigators utilized a license plate reader to identify a vehicle of interest.
The occupants of this vehicle matched descriptions provided by witnesses.
A park ranger observed these individuals hastily packing their belongings and leaving the area after being confronted by witnesses who claimed the driver had thrown a rock at the heron.
Valenzuela was later identified as the suspect and was arrested.
During questioning, he admitted to throwing rocks at the bird, as stated by officials. He was subsequently booked into jail and is currently held on an immigration detainer.
Great white herons are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
While historically considered a color morph of the great blue heron, recent studies have supported recognizing the great white heron as a distinct species.
The species is listed as endangered, with its primary habitat in southern Florida, including the Florida Keys and the Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge.