As spring arrives in Florida, the state’s wildlife becomes more active. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has issued guidance to help residents and visitors avoid conflicts with animals and protect native species during this period.
Migration, breeding, feeding, and nesting increase among many species at this time of year. The FWC provided specific advice for several animals:
For bats, maternity season lasts from April 16 through August 14. During this period, it is illegal to block or exclude bats from their roosts because flightless pups could be trapped inside structures. “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.”
With rising temperatures, bears become more visible as mothers teach cubs survival skills. The FWC advises people to secure garbage, pet food, and bird seed to prevent attracting bears: “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 are also more active now as they search for food and mates. The agency recommends giving these land-dwelling reptiles space: “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 become more likely to be encountered by boaters as they leave winter habitats for coastal waterways: “Slow down and watch carefully for manatees below the surface when boating. Always follow posted speed limits, especially in designated zones.” Seasonal zones often correspond with manatee migration patterns.
Sea turtles begin nesting on Florida beaches between March and October. Residents can support their efforts by keeping beaches dark at night and removing obstacles: “Artificial lighting can disturb nesting turtles and disorient hatchlings… close the curtains, pull the shades, or turn off the lights… collect your beach gear at the end of the day and fill in any sand holes.”
Native snakes also become more active with warmer weather: “Snakes are shy and usually try to avoid encounters; however, it is not unusual to find them basking in the sunlight on artificial surfaces… give it space and admire from a distance. Keep dogs leashed to prevent unwanted encounters.”
The start of nesting season brings shorebirds, seabirds, wading birds such as herons and egrets—and pelicans—back to beaches or mangroves: “You can help protect shorebirds… by keeping your distance (at least 300 feet) while on the beach or out on the water… Staying aware of your surroundings and giving birds the space they need helps ensure a successful nesting season.”
If young wildlife such as fawns or fledglings are found alone outdoors this spring, FWC says: “It’s almost always best to leave young animals where you find them… If you suspect the animal might be injured or orphaned, you can report it to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.” Those unsure what action to take can contact their nearest FWC Regional Office.
Drivers should remain alert for animals crossing roads—including panthers—during increased springtime activity: “Slowing down and obeying all posted speed limits… helps keep you, other motorists and Florida’s wildlife safe.”
The FWC encourages reporting suspected wildlife violations via its Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
According to its official mission page, FWC aims to protect Florida’s fish and wildlife resources through research expertise while promoting public input into conservation decisions (source). Over 40% of its funding comes from external grants supporting critical research projects (source). Facilities like Gainesville’s Wildlife Research Laboratory provide equipment for animal studies (source), reflecting contributions by researchers such as Lovett Williams (source).
For further details about spring wildlife activity visit MyFWC.com/News.
