Wildlife and Land Sales in Florida: Gopher Tortoises, Owl, and Eagle Nests

Overview:

Discuss how protected wildlife such as gopher tortoises, owls, and eagle nests impact land value and selling prices in Florida.

Key Points:

• Legal requirements and permits needed to remove or relocate wildlife.

• Costs involved in the relocation of species like gopher tortoises.

• Environmental protections that may limit development or affect timelines.

• Case studies of land sales impacted by wildlife.

Wildlife and Land Sales in Florida: Gopher Tortoises, Owl, and Eagle Nests

Introduction

Florida is known for its rich wildlife, which includes several protected (endangered) species such as gopher tortoises, burrowing owls, and bald eagles. While these creatures contribute to the state’s natural beauty, their presence on a piece of land can create challenges for landowners looking to sell. From affecting property values to requiring special permits, these protected species often play a significant role in real estate transactions. This blog will explore how these animals impact land sales, what sellers and buyers need to know about wildlife protections, and how to navigate permits and regulations.

The Impact of Protected Wildlife on Land Value

The presence of gopher tortoises, eagle nests, and burrowing owls can complicate land transactions. These species are protected by federal and state laws, meaning that any land containing their habitats may face restrictions that influence selling prices and the speed at which a sale can happen.

• Lower Market Value: Land with protected species often sells at a lower price due to the costs and time involved in securing the necessary permits or conducting relocations. Buyers might hesitate to purchase land that comes with legal and environmental responsibilities.

• Delays in Development: Developers may need to postpone projects to accommodate wildlife relocation or protection efforts, which can affect the overall appeal of the property.

• Potential for Higher Long-Term Value: In some cases, land with well-managed wildlife protection plans can increase in value, particularly as eco-friendly and conservation-focused developments become more popular.

Relocation and Permit Requirements

Landowners looking to sell their property must first understand the legal requirements around the relocation or protection of these species.

• Gopher Tortoises: These tortoises are listed as a threatened species in Florida. Landowners cannot disturb their burrows without a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). If gopher tortoises are present, you’ll need to hire a certified wildlife relocator to safely move them to a permitted site. The process can be time-consuming and expensive, with relocation fees ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 or more per tortoise.

• Burrowing Owls: As another protected species, burrowing owls often nest in open areas of undeveloped land. Removing or disturbing these nests requires special permits. Some landowners may need to work with environmental consultants to assess owl populations and ensure compliance with state laws.

• Bald Eagles: Florida’s bald eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Their nests, which are often in large trees, cannot be disturbed without a permit. If eagle nests are present, developers may need to design around the nests or plan for specific buffer zones, further influencing land use and cost.

Permitting Challenges and Considerations

Obtaining the necessary permits to relocate protected species or to develop land while complying with environmental laws can be a lengthy and complex process. Landowners need to consider the following steps:

• Hire Environmental Consultants: It is often necessary to consult with experts who can assess the wildlife situation on the property and guide the permit application process.

• Understand Permit Timelines: Depending on the species, securing permits may take several months or longer. Sellers and buyers should plan accordingly when structuring the sale timeline.

• Financial Impact: The costs involved in the process can add up quickly. Sellers should account for potential expenses, including wildlife assessments, relocations, and permit fees, when pricing their land.

Long-Term Solutions for Landowners and Buyers

While the presence of protected species can be a challenge, there are ways to mitigate the impact on land sales. Landowners can:

• Incorporate Wildlife Protections: Some buyers are open to purchasing land with wildlife habitats if conservation efforts are part of the deal. Marketing land as eco-friendly or environmentally conscious may attract certain types of buyers.

• Plan for Buffer Zones: For land with eagle nests or burrowing owl habitats, setting aside buffer zones where no development can take place may be a way to preserve the species while still developing the remaining land.

• Partner with Conservation Groups: In some cases, landowners may benefit from partnering with conservation organizations, which can help fund preservation efforts or provide expertise in managing protected species.

Conclusion

For landowners in Florida, the presence of protected wildlife such as gopher tortoises, burrowing owls, and bald eagles can complicate the sale and development process. However, with careful planning, the right permits, and an understanding of the regulations, it’s possible to navigate these challenges. While these animals may impact selling prices and require additional effort, they are also a reminder of the beautiful and delicate ecosystem that makes Florida a unique place to live and work.