The springtime is almost here! As the temperatures start to heat up and beachgoers enjoy longer days on our sandy shores, much of Florida’s diverse wildlife also becomes more active. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) shared some annual reminders with us regarding ways to reduce conflicts and help conserve our native species here in the Sunshine State!
Migration, breeding, feeding, and nesting are all on the rise this time of year, increasing the likelihood of encounters between wildlife and people. The following tips can protect native wildlife and reduce the chances of disrupting their natural behaviors (both in spring months and year-round).
Gopher tortoise – image credit: Friends of Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Injured and Orphaned Wildlife
If you encounter a young animal, such as a fawn or fledgling, it’s usually best to leave it where it is. Most young animals are not orphaned, and their parents are often nearby, foraging for food. If you suspect the animal might be injured or orphaned, you can report it to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Your nearest FWC Regional Office is also a great resource.
Manatees
For boaters and personal watercraft users, it is important to be on the lookout for manatees to avoid collisions with these large aquatic mammals. Chances of close encounters between manatees and boaters increase this time of year as manatees leave their winter habitats and travel the waterways along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts and other inland waters. Go slow and look out below for manatees when boating or using personal watercraft. Boaters should follow posted speed limits, as many areas have spring seasonal zones that reflect manatee migration patterns.
Sea Turtles
Each spring, large marine turtles begin nesting on Florida’s beaches. You can support their nesting season, which lasts from March through October, by keeping beaches dark and free of obstacles at night. Artificial lighting can disturb nesting turtles and disorient hatchlings, so avoid using flashlights or cellphones on the beach after dark. If you’re in a building along the shoreline, close curtains, shades or turn off lights to prevent disruptions. Additionally, remove beach gear at the end of the day and fill in any sand holes to help keep the beach safe for these turtles.
Bats
Bat maternity season, which runs from April 16 to Aug. 14, is when bats give birth and care for their young. During this period, blocking bats from returning to their roosts is illegal. Excluding bats during maternity season could trap flightless baby bats inside structures. To prevent this, April 15 is the last day to exclude bats from your home or building without a permit. It’s essential to conduct a final spring inspection for any potential entry points, ensure no bats are present and make necessary repairs before maternity season begins. If bats are found, install a bat exclusion device to safely allow them to exit while preventing their return. These devices are the only legal and proper method for bat removal.
Gopher Tortoises
As Florida’s only native tortoise becomes more active this time of year, it forages for food and looks for a mate. If you spot a gopher tortoise or its distinctive half-moon shaped burrow entrance, please leave them undisturbed. If you see a gopher tortoise crossing the road, and it’s safe to do so, you can gently move it in the direction it was heading – just avoid placing it in your vehicle. Remember, gopher tortoises are land animals and cannot swim, so never try to put them in water.
Snakes
What should you do if you come upon a native snake? Just give it space, as snakes usually try to avoid encounters. Keep an eye out for our native snakes in your yard or when hiking, as they could be seen more frequently as the weather warms.
Nesting Waterbirds
As nesting season begins for shorebirds, seabirds and wading birds, you can help protect them by keeping your distance while on the beach or water. If birds appear agitated or abandon their nests, it means you’re too close. On the beach, watch for well-camouflaged shorebird eggs and chicks nestled among the sand and shells. Meanwhile, wading birds such as herons and egrets, along with pelicans, are also nesting in mangroves and tree islands. Your awareness and caution can make a big difference in keeping these birds and their nests safe.
Wildlife and Roads
Humans aren’t the only ones using roadways! With increased wildlife activity, keep an eye out for animals crossing roads, including larger species such as Florida panthers, bears and deer. Slowing down and obeying all posted speed limits, particularly in panther zones and areas with road signage identifying known wildlife crossings, helps keep you, other motorists and Florida’s wildlife safe. Are you interested in other ways to help Florida panthers? Consider supporting panther conservation by purchasing the new “Protect the Panther” license plate. Fees from license plate sales are the primary funding source for the FWC’s research and management of Florida panthers.
For more information on wildlife in the spring, visit MyFWC.com/News and click on “Spring Wildlife News.”
If you witness someone committing a wildlife violation, please contact the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline: 888-404-FWCC (3922) or text 847411 (Tip411) with keyword “FWC” and information about the violation.
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