Winter Wildlife: Protecting Florida’s Animals During Cooler Months

Winter in Florida might not bring snow, but it does bring unique challenges for our wildlife. Florida is home to diverse ecosystems and species that depend on warm climates, and even slight temperature drops can have a significant impact. As Floridians, we play a crucial role in protecting the wildlife that shares our home. Here’s how we can help during these cooler months.

1. Manatees and Cold Stress

Manatees, often called "sea cows," are gentle giants that rely on warm waters to survive. These marine mammals have a low metabolic rate, which makes them highly susceptible to cold stress when water temperatures dip below 68°F. Prolonged exposure to the cold can lead to a life-threatening condition that weakens their immune system and leaves them vulnerable to illness.

During the winter, manatees migrate to warm-water springs and artificial warm-water refuges, such as the outflows from power plants. These areas are vital for their survival but also come with risks: increased boat traffic and habitat degradation.

How You Can Help:

• Boating Safety: Always adhere to posted speed zones in manatee aggregation areas. Propeller strikes are one of the leading causes of manatee injuries and deaths.

• Observation Etiquette: When observing manatees, maintain a safe distance and never touch, feed, or chase them. Human interaction can disrupt their natural behavior.

• Report Concerns: If you spot an injured or distressed manatee, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at 888-404-3922.

Manatees are a vital part of Florida’s ecosystem, grazing on seagrass beds that help maintain water quality. By protecting them, we also preserve the health of our waterways.

2. Supporting Migratory Birds

Each winter, Florida becomes a temporary home to thousands of migratory birds escaping colder climates. From wetlands to coastal regions, these birds rely on Florida’s diverse habitats for food, shelter, and rest during their long journeys. Species like the painted bunting, sandhill crane, and American kestrel can often be spotted during the winter months.

However, habitat loss due to urbanization, pollution, and invasive species has made migration increasingly challenging. Without proper nesting sites and food sources, migratory bird populations could decline.

How You Can Help:

• Plant Native Vegetation: Include native trees and shrubs like Slash Pines and Yaupon Holly in your yard to provide berries, seeds, and shelter. (Visit some of our Planting Instruction Blogs for help on how to grow these native plants!)

• Create Bird-Friendly Spaces: Add bird baths or small water features to your yard for hydration. Be sure to clean them regularly to prevent the spread of disease.

• Avoid Pesticides: Harsh chemicals can kill the insects that many bird species rely on for food. Instead, opt for organic pest control methods.

Small changes in your backyard can make a significant impact on the survival of migratory birds during the winter months.

3. Restoring Habitats for Year-Round Wildlife

Winter is also an excellent time to engage in habitat restoration efforts. While many plants and animals slow down during the cooler months, restoration projects can lay the groundwork for healthier ecosystems when spring arrives. For example, planting native trees provides immediate shelter for animals while also benefiting future generations.

Mangroves, wetlands, and forested areas are particularly important for Florida’s wildlife. Mangroves protect coastlines from erosion and serve as nurseries for fish, crabs, and shrimp. Wetlands act as natural filters, improving water quality and reducing flooding risks. These habitats are vital year-round but are often under threat due to human activity.

How You Can Help:

• Volunteer with Organizations Like Take MAR: Participate in events like tree plantings, habitat clean-ups, and invasive species removal.

• Support Reforestation Efforts: Donate to initiatives that aim to restore native forests in Florida. Even small contributions can have a big impact.

• Conserve Water: Limit water use at home to reduce strain on Florida’s aquifers and natural springs that wildlife depends on.

Through habitat restoration, we’re not only protecting wildlife but also creating a more resilient environment for ourselves.

Take MAR’s Impact in 2024

This year, Take MAR has been dedicated to protecting Florida’s ecosystems. From planting trees along the Pinellas Trail to cleaning up hundreds of pounds of trash from Egmont Key and Shell Key’s wildlife refuges, our efforts have made a tangible difference. These projects not only provide immediate benefits for wildlife but also help educate and empower our community to take action.

Get Involved

Want to make a difference this winter? Here’s how:

• Volunteer: Join us for UPCOMING EVENTS and tree-planting initiatives!

• Donate: Your contributions help us fund vital projects like habitat restoration and wildlife protection. DONATE straight to Take MAR, or help us restore the native canopy lost during recent storms by DONATING A TREE!

• Spread the Word: SHARE our mission with friends and family to grow our community of changemakers.

Together, we can ensure Florida remains a haven for its incredible wildlife and a home we can all cherish for generations to come.