Be on the lookout! Wildlife is more active in spring

Photos and video available

Springtime means Florida's wildlife is stirring. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) shares seasonal tips to reduce conflicts and help conserve our native species.

Migration, breeding, feeding and nesting all increase this time of year. The following tips can help protect wildlife and minimize disturbances during this busy season and throughout the year.

• Bats: Bat maternity season runs from April 16 through Aug. 14, the time of year when bats give birth and raise their young. It's illegal to block or exclude bats from their roosts during this period. Exclusion during maternity season can trap flightless pups inside structures, causing unnecessary harm to the bats and additional complications for the property owner.
  April 15 is the last day bats may be excluded from a home or building without a permit. Before maternity season begins, conduct a final spring inspection to identify and seal potential entry points and confirm no bats are present. If bats are detected, install a properly designed bat exclusion device that allows them to leave safely but prevents reentry. These one-way devices are the only legal and appropriate method for removing bats from structures.

• Bears: As temperatures rise, bears become more active, and mothers begin teaching their cubs what to eat and how to survive. Help ensure your garbage, pet food and bird seed don't become part of that lesson by removing or securing potential attractants around your property. When bears can't find an easy meal in your yard or neighborhood, they typically move on. Seeing a bear in your neighborhood is not necessarily cause for alarm, but it is important that people give bears space and secure food attractants so that they do not linger in the area.

• Gopher Tortoises: Florida's only native tortoise becomes more active this time of year, foraging for food and seeking a mate. If you spot a gopher tortoise or its distinctive half-moon-shaped burrow entrance, please give it space and avoid disturbing it. If you see a gopher tortoise crossing the road and it's safe to help, you may gently move it in the direction it was headed (not in your vehicle). And remember, gopher tortoises are land animals that cannot swim, so they should never be put in water.

• Manatees: For boaters and personal watercraft users, staying alert for manatees can help prevent collisions with these large aquatic mammals. Encounters are more likely this time of year as manatees leave their winter habitats and travel through waterways along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, as well as inland waters. Slow down and watch carefully for manatees below the surface when boating. Always follow posted speed limits, especially in designated zones. Be aware that many areas establish seasonal zones that align with manatee migration patterns to help protect them during this active period.

• Sea Turtles: Large marine turtles begin nesting on Florida's beaches from about March through October. You can support their nesting season by keeping beaches dark and free of any 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 beach, close the curtains, pull the shades, or turn off the lights to prevent disruptions. It's recommended you also collect your beach gear at the end of the day and fill in any sand holes to give turtles the best chance of successfully navigating the shoreline.

• Snakes: You might start seeing some of Florida's native snakes as they become more active during warmer temperatures. Snakes are shy and usually try to avoid encounters; however, it is not unusual to find them basking in the sunlight on artificial surfaces. If you spot one in your yard, on your sidewalk or driveway, or while hiking, give it space and admire from a distance. Keep dogs leashed to prevent unwanted encounters.

• Nesting Waterbirds: You can help protect shorebirds, seabirds and wading birds as nesting season begins by keeping your distance (at least 300 feet) while on the beach or out on the water. You'll know you're too close if the birds appear agitated or fly off their nests. Shorebird eggs and chicks nestled among the sand and shells aren't easy to spot, so watch your step while you're enjoying the beach. Wading birds, such as herons and egrets, along with pelicans, are also busy nesting in mangroves and tree islands. Staying aware of your surroundings and giving birds the space they need helps ensure a successful nesting season.

• Injured and Orphaned Wildlife: Encountered a fawn or fledgling? It's almost always best to leave young animals where you find them, even if you think they are alone. The 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. If you aren't sure, your nearest FWC Regional Office can help.

• Wildlife and Roads: 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.

For more information on wildlife in spring, visit MyFWC.com/News and click on "Spring Wildlife News." The FWC encourages the public to report suspected wildlife violations to the FWC's Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).