Protected animal and plant species, located under
Appendix H of the Lee County Land Development Code, are afforded habitat protection through Land Development Code regulations. A survey for protected animal and plant species is required for most new development projects, and a species management plan is required if protected species occur on a development site.
Approved Survey Methodology:
Eagle Protection
Bald Eagle Nesting Season is October 1 through May 15.
Additional Resources:
Shorebirds
Lee County beaches are host to beach nesting birds from April 1 through August 31.
These birds nest on our coastal beaches, barrier islands, spoil islands, causeways, construction sites, gravel roofs, and coral rock islands.
Common Courtesy When Interacting with Shorebirds:
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Minimize nest disturbance by respecting posted areas on beaches.
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Avoid walking on or near the wrack line, which is typically used for foraging.
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Don't operate vehicles near nesting areas.
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Keep pets leashed and away from all bird colonies and beach nesting birds.
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Keep distance from the birds.
Additional Resources:
Sea
Turtles
Sea Turtle Nesting Season is May 1 through October 31.
To report a dead, injured, or disoriented sea turtle, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 888-404-3922.
Each summer, Florida’s beaches, including more than 40 miles in Lee County, become nesting grounds for threatened and endangered sea turtles. Females return at night to the same beaches where they hatched, laying eggs that will incubate for about two months. Hatchlings emerge at night and rely on the natural glow of the ocean horizon to find the water quickly, which is essential for survival. Artificial lighting disrupts this ancient process.
Lights visible from the beach can:
- Deter females from nesting or affect how they return to the water.
- Disorient hatchlings, sending them inland or making them unable to reach the water.
- Cause fatal dehydration, predation, exhaustion, or roadway deaths.