Cape Coral Sidewalk Project Displaces Burrowing Owl Nest

A new sidewalk project in Cape Coral has some residents asking whether progress came at too high a cost.

According to People, residents near Orchid Boulevard and Del Prado Boulevard say a city sidewalk project displaced at least one burrowing owl nest. The burrowing owl is listed as a threatened species in Florida, and habitat loss is considered one of its biggest threats. 

The city reportedly applied for the necessary permits through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission before beginning the work. But neighbors say they raised concerns about the nesting site and wanted the city to consider another route for the sidewalk. 

The story gained attention after a photo circulated showing a burrowing owl standing in the open near the construction area after its nest had been cleared. Local journalist Peter Busch also shared the situation on Facebook, noting that the city said it had obtained the required FWC permits. 

Some residents have now started trying to help the owls themselves. One neighbor told Gulf Coast News that he has been digging new holes in his yard in hopes of giving the displaced birds another place to shelter. 

So the city may have followed the rules.

But that still leaves a very Cape Coral question:

Just because something is permitted, does that mean it was the best way to do it?

Is This Crazy or Not?

A new sidewalk is useful.

So is protecting one of Cape Coral’s most recognizable little residents.

You decide.

Source/Credit: People, with reporting attributed to Gulf Coast News and social media posts from local journalist Peter Busch.