There was “a lot of public outcry,” expressing concern for the birds, while investigators tried to locate the source of the mothballs, FWC officials said. Upon examining his phone, investigators found “incriminating” text messages between him and fellow business owner Monroe discussing their objections to the native fowl. Text conversations revealed plans for placement of the mothballs on the beach, officials said. The men discussed how they “were going to do something” to prevent the birds from nesting on the beach, FWC officials said. They also were charged with the “attempted take of a state-listed imperiled species by harassment,” a misdemeanor, according to FWC officials.