Hello, wildlife! The dos and don’ts around South Florida’s spring critters
By Lois K. Solomon
Published on March 21, 2026.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and South Florida parks departments have issued several tips for citizens to protect wildlife. Spring is the season for native animals to migrate, feed, breed and nest, with the maternity season starting on April 16. The FWC recommends homeowners to inspect their properties and seal potential bat entry points by April 15. It is illegal to kill or harm these bats in Florida, which also has 13 native bat species. Florida's only native tortoise, which can only swim, becomes more visible in spring as they search for food and breed. Manatees are likely to be seen on boats this time of year as they leave their winter habitats and travel through the Intracoastal Waterway. The Department of Environmental Resources Management advises against digging holes on beach during nesting season.
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Hello, wildlife! The dos and don’ts around South Florida’s spring critters
As spring approaches, South Florida wildlife lovers are urged to adopt seasonal conservationist tips, especially regarding bats, bears, turtles, and gopher tortoises.