Burrowing owls are a species of small owl that live in open, treeless areas like grasslands, prairies, and agricultural fields. They get their name from the fact that they nest and roost in abandoned burrows dug by ground squirrels, prairie dogs, armadillos, and other animals. The burrowing owl is listed as a species of special concern in Florida, where much of its habitat has been lost to development. One place the owls still thrive is in the city of Cape Coral.
Why are there burrowing owls in Cape Coral?
Cape Coral has a large population of burrowing owls due to several factors:
- Abundant vacant lots and open spaces: Cape Coral has many areas of vacant land and empty lots that provide suitable habitat for burrowing owls. The open,treeless areas give the owls a good vantage point for hunting.
- Sandy soil: The sandy soil makes it easy for the owls to dig burrows for nesting and taking shelter.
- Lack of predators: With developed urban areas, there are fewer larger predators like coyotes or bobcats that would hunt the owls.
- Supplemental feeding: Some local residents intentionally provide food like mice to help support the owl population.
- Nest boxes: The city and local conservation groups have installed over 600 nest boxes to provide additional nesting sites.
Estimates indicate there could be over 1,000 breeding pairs of burrowing owls within Cape Coral city limits, making it one of the densest populations in Florida.
Are burrowing owls protected in Cape Coral?
Yes, the burrowing owls within Cape Coral receive legal protection from various regulations and codes:
- Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act: This prohibits harming or harassing burrowing owls as they are classified as a migratory bird species.
- State designation as Species of Special Concern: This classification requires conservation efforts and monitoring of the owl populations.
- City ordinance and Cape Coral code: Regulations prohibit disturbing owl burrows and require surveys and mitigation measures before new construction. There are also restrictions on pets, pesticides, and feeding wildlife near owl burrows.
- Conservation lands: The city has acquired and preserved over 1,000 acres specifically for burrowing owl habitat.
These protections aim to conserve Cape Coral’s unique burrowing owl community. The owls have become a point of pride and identity for the city.
What should you do if you find a burrowing owl burrow?
If you discover a burrowing owl nesting burrow on your property or elsewhere in Cape Coral, here are the recommended steps:
- Avoid getting too close and do not disturb the burrow. Observe from at least 10 feet away.
- Do not block the entrance to the burrow or prevent the owls from entering/exiting.
- Never dig into the burrow or attempt to handle the owls.
- Contact the City of Cape Coral Environmental Resources Division. They oversee conservation efforts for the owls and can provide site-specific guidance.
- Restrict pets from areas near the burrow to prevent harassment.
- Do not use pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers near the active burrow.
- If construction work needs to be done near the burrow, coordinate with the city to follow required mitigation procedures.
Leaving the area undisturbed and quickly consulting the city experts are the best things you can do to ensure the owls’ safety and comply with regulations.
Who should you call about burrowing owls in Cape Coral?
Here are the main agencies and organizations to contact about burrowing owl issues in Cape Coral:
City of Cape Coral Environmental Resources Division
This city department coordinates conservation efforts for the burrowing owls.
- Phone: 239-574-0785
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.capecoral.gov/erd
You can contact them to report owl burrows, get assistance with mitigation measures, or inquire about nest box programs and volunteer opportunities.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
The state wildlife agency monitors threatened and endangered species. They assist with burrowing owl management across Florida.
- Southwest Regional Office Phone: 863-648-3200
- Website: www.myfwc.com
You can report any violations of wildlife regulations to the FWC.
Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife Burrowing Owl Program
This non-profit citizens group helps monitor and protect the city’s owl population through public education, nest box programs, and more.
- Phone: 239-728-5942
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.ccfriendsofwildlife.org
They rely on public tips and sighting reports to support their conservation work.
Owl Watch Cape Coral
This initiative of the Cape Coral Community Foundation organizes volunteers to monitor owl nests and help with research efforts.
- Phone: 239-542-5594
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.owlwatch.org
You can sign up to participate in monitoring programs through this group.
Keep an eye out!
Every Cape Coral resident and visitor can assist in protecting the burrowing owls by keeping an eye out for them throughout the city. Learn to recognize their small size, long legs, and yellow eyes. Be aware of their potential burrows in vacant lots, parks, golf courses, airports, and other open areas. By reporting owl sightings and locations to the above organizations, you can help contribute to their conservation.
Conclusion
Cape Coral’s burrowing owl population brings enjoyment and a sense of stewardship to the local community. But the owls also need robust ongoing protection and management to thrive in an urbanized environment. By contacting the City Environmental Resources Division, FWC, and local non-profits whenever you observe or have questions about the owls, you can do your part to give these special birds a fighting chance.
