Get FL Burrowing Owl/Gopher Tortoise Affidavit - City Of Cape Coral 2021-2024

You may help the tortoise cross the road by placing it out of harm's way in the same direction that it was going. DO NOT take the tortoise with you or move it to a different area. Also, do not put your life in danger to move the tortoise.

Burrowing owls are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and considered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to be a bird of conservation need.

Take of burrowing owls is prohibited without a permit or other authorization. What does it mean to “take” a burrowing owl?

Conservation and Management The Florida burrowing owl is classified as State Threatened by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. This means that taking, possessing, or selling burrowing owls, their nests (i.e., burrows), or eggs is prohibited without a permit (68A-27 F.A.C.).

Florida law prohibits any person from killing or wounding gopher tortoises, which are considered “threatened” in the state of Florida. Violating the law is a third-degree felony and punishable by up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine or both.

What you can do to help. Report destruction or harassment of burrowing owls or their nests to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission toll free at 1-888-404-FWCC.

DO NOT FEED OR HANDLE WILD ANIMALS. If you found an injured burrowing owl, place a towel or sheet over the bird and gently place it in a secure container (e.g. cardboard box with a lid). Use caution as burrowing owls might be small, but they have very sharp talons and a powerful grip.

Please report the violations to FWC's 24 hour hotline at 1-888-404-3922. Injured or wounded owls please immediately call the Clinic Rehab of Wildlife (CROW) 239-472- 3644.