Fool's gold: Audubon International certification as a predictor of foraging habitat suitability for wading birds: A case study comparison of three Audubon International certified and three non-Audubon golf courses in Southwest Florida

Urbanization has placed a premium on the importance of non-traditional foraging sites for avian species. This is especially relevant in Southwest Florida, home to several of the fastest growing urban areas in the United States. Audubon International, which is not affiliated with the National Audubon Society, certifies golf courses at the Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels as a way to profile a development's commitment to environmental quality, which includes efforts at habitat preservation and creation.; This study examined the suitability of wading bird foraging habitat on three Certified Gold golf courses as well as three non-Audubon golf courses in the Fort Myers/Naples region of Florida. Results of this study, which were examined within the context of natural capital and sustainable development, indicate that Audubon International certification does not guarantee improved foraging habitat suitability for wading birds beyond what is commonly found on 'typical' Florida golf courses.