With the arrival of spring, Florida’s diverse wildlife is experiencing a surge in activity, prompting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to issue important reminders to residents and visitors.
This seasonal increase in migration, breeding, feeding, and nesting activities significantly raises the likelihood of encounters between humans and wildlife, necessitating heightened awareness and responsible behavior.
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The FWC is emphasizing the need to protect Florida’s native species and minimize conflicts by adhering to several key guidelines, ensuring the safety of both humans and animals.
One crucial aspect highlighted by the FWC is the proper handling of injured or orphaned wildlife. Encounters with young animals, such as fawns or fledglings, are more frequent in spring, but it’s generally best to leave them undisturbed, as their parents are often nearby.
If an animal appears injured or genuinely orphaned, residents should contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or their nearest FWC Regional Office.
The FWC also addressed the importance of respecting bat maternity season, which runs from April 16 to August 14. During this period, blocking bats from their roosts is illegal, and any necessary bat exclusions should be completed before April 15th to avoid trapping flightless baby bats inside structures.
Furthermore, the FWC is reminding Floridians to be mindful of increased bear activity during warmer weather. Securing garbage, pet food, and bird seed around properties is essential to prevent attracting bears and causing potential conflicts.
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Gopher tortoises, Florida’s only native tortoise, are also more active in spring, and residents are urged to leave them and their burrows undisturbed. If a gopher tortoise is spotted crossing the road, it can be gently moved in the direction it was heading, but never placed in water as they are land animals.
For those enjoying Florida’s waterways, the FWC stresses the importance of being vigilant for manatees. Boaters and personal watercraft users should follow posted speed limits and “look out below” to avoid collisions with these gentle giants.
Sea turtle nesting season also begins in spring, and residents can help by keeping beaches dark and clear of obstacles at night. Artificial lighting can disorient nesting turtles and hatchlings, so using flashlights or cellphones on the beach after dark should be avoided.
Encounters with snakes are also more likely as temperatures rise, and the FWC advises giving them space and avoiding disturbance. Nesting waterbirds, such as shorebirds, seabirds, and wading birds, require similar consideration. Keeping a safe distance from their nesting sites is crucial to avoid agitating the birds or causing them to abandon their nests.
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Finally, the FWC reminds motorists to be aware of increased wildlife activity on roadways, particularly larger species like Florida panthers, bears, and deer. Slowing down and obeying speed limits, especially in designated wildlife crossing areas, is essential for the safety of both humans and animals.
The FWC encourages the public to report any wildlife violations to the Wildlife Alert Hotline and provides resources for further information on coexisting with Florida’s diverse wildlife.
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