Yes, burrowing owls are a protected species on Marco Island and throughout Florida. The burrowing owl is classified as a State Threatened Species by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). This means they are at risk of becoming endangered in the future. There are specific laws and regulations in place to protect burrowing owl populations and their habitat in Florida.
Burrowing Owl Status and Protection in Florida
The burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia floridana) is a small, ground-dwelling owl that nests and roosts in abandoned burrows, especially those created by gopher tortoises. They are found throughout Florida but their populations have been declining in recent decades due to habitat loss, vehicle collisions, and predation. Marco Island is within their current range.
In 1979, the burrowing owl was classified as a State Threatened Species in Florida. This classification means the FWC has determined the species is likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range in Florida. State Threatened species are regulated by FWC’s Imperiled Species Management Plan and protected under Florida Administrative Code.
Some key protections for burrowing owls in Florida include:
- It is illegal to intentionally kill, harass, or attempt to kill burrowing owls.
- Their active nests cannot be disturbed or destroyed.
- Their burrows cannot be blocked or damaged.
- A permit is required from FWC to temporarily possess burrowing owls, their nests, or eggs.
- Habitat containing active burrowing owl nests cannot be developed, altered, or destroyed without a FWC permit.
These protections apply year-round and on both public and private lands throughout Florida, including Marco Island.
Burrowing Owl Population Trends
Statewide surveys estimate there are between 3,000 – 8,000 breeding pairs of burrowing owls remaining in Florida. Their populations are concentrated in southwest Florida counties such as Lee, Charlotte, Collier, and mainland Monroe.
On Marco Island specifically, burrowing owl numbers have declined significantly since the 1980s. In 1989, Marco Island supported an estimated breeding population of 12 pairs. Follow up surveys in 2012 documented only 1-3 pairs on the island.
Some key population trends for Marco Island burrowing owls include:
- Peak population: Estimated 12 pairs in 1989
- 2012 survey: 1-3 pairs documented
- Decline since 1989 peak: 90-95%
The reasons for decline on Marco Island mirror statewide threats such as habitat loss, vehicle strikes, predation, and human disturbance of nests. Protecting existing habitat and nests is critical for Marco Island’s small burrowing owl population.
Burrowing Owl Habitat Needs
Burrowing owls require open, treeless spaces with low ground cover. This includes grasslands, pastures, agricultural fields, golf courses, airports, and vacant lots. On Marco Island, they rely especially on vacant lots and roadside grassy areas.
The essential feature of their habitat is the presence of burrows for nesting and shelter. They rarely dig their own burrows and instead use those created by gopher tortoises, armadillos, and other burrowing animals. Artificial burrows are also sometimes provided for nesting owls where natural burrows are lacking.
Some ideal habitat features for burrowing owls include:
- Open areas with sparse vegetation less than 1.5 feet tall
- Well-drained, sandy soils for burrowing
- Presence of existing burrows from gopher tortoises or other animals
- Low risk of predators, human disturbance, and vehicles
Threats to Burrowing Owls on Marco Island
The small population of burrowing owls on Marco Island faces a variety of threats, including:
- Habitat loss: Development, vegetation overgrowth, and loss of open space reduces availability of nesting and foraging grounds.
- Vehicle strikes: Owls that nest near roads are at high risk of being hit by vehicles when flying low across pavement.
- Human disturbance: Nesting owls are sensitive to human activities near their burrows, which may cause nest abandonment.
- Predators: Common predators in Florida include fire ants, raccoons, snakes, and domestic cats and dogs.
Collisions with vehicles may be the leading cause of burrowing owl deaths on Marco Island. Their low aerial hunting flights and tendency to stand on roads puts them at great risk. One Marco Island study found 15 burrowing owl carcasses along an 8-mile stretch of road.
Conservation Actions for Marco Island Owls
Various conservation actions aim to protect and increase burrowing owl numbers on Marco Island, including:
- Habitat management: Keeping open lots free of tall vegetation and preserving grassy roadside areas.
- Nest protections: Installing fences or signs around active nests to avoid disturbance.
- Public education: Community outreach and events to raise awareness.
- Vehicle reduction: Lowering speed limits and installing wildlife crossing signs in key areas.
- Population monitoring: Regular surveys to track Marco Island’s owls.
- Reintroduction: Possible future reintroduction from other areas to boost Marco Island’s population.
With Marco Island largely built out, vacantlots represent critical remaining habitat. Efforts to maintain suitable vegetation conditions on remaining vacant lots is vital for preserving nesting and foraging areas.
Continued public education and monitoring will also be key to conserving burrowing owls into the future. Marco Island’s owls face an uphill battle, but can be preserved through active management and community stewardship.
Legal Protections Summary
Here is a quick summary of the major legal protections for burrowing owls on Marco Island and throughout Florida:
- Classified as State Threatened Species
- Protected year-round by Florida Administrative Code
- Illegal to intentionally kill, harass, possess, or destroy active nests
- Development permits required for projects affecting nests
- Fines and legal penalties for violating regulations
Conclusion
In conclusion, burrowing owls are a protected species in Florida, including on Marco Island. Their population has declined drastically on Marco Island since the 1980s, with only 1-3 pairs remaining. Conservation efforts aim to preserve remaining habitat, reduce disturbances, limit road impacts, and potentially boost populations through reintroduction. Marco Island’s small burrowing owl population faces threats, but is shielded by state regulations that prohibit killing, harassment, or destruction of active nests. Community stewardship and habitat management will play key roles in preserving Marco Island’s unique burrowing owls into the future.
