Throngs of nature lovers gathered to watch dozens of huge wood storks begin nesting at Wakodahatchee Wetlands in Delray Beach, Florida. The 4-foot-tall birds nest, hatch and raise their young from mid-February to July. The wading birds was listed on the federal endangered species act in the 1980s, when they were only found in remote areas of the Everglades due to human development disturbing their shallow water habitat.

Federal wildlife officials are considering removing wood storks from the endangered species list as thousands of pairs are now found nesting across the Southeast. Estimates are 11,000 pairs can be found in Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas. Wildlife officials credit wetlands restoration with the birds' remarkable return.

Audubon Florida, however, opposes the designation change. The group released a statement that said, "While we celebrate many delistings, we have grave concerns for the future of the wood stork especially if it is left without protections afforded under the Endangered Species Act."