Residents worry sidewalk project may harm burrowing owl habitats in Cape Coral

Residents in Cape Coral are raising concerns about the impact of sidewalk construction along Orchid Boulevard on burrowing owls, a threatened species in Florida. Lauren Lopez, a Cape Coral resident, shared her thoughts on the owls living in her neighborhood. "We have quite a few in our neighborhood. The kids love seeing them. We have one that just moved across the street," Lopez said. She expressed her concerns about the city’s development potentially affecting the birds' habitats. "It's honestly heartbreaking," Lopez said. "I wish there was a way that we could coexist with our environment and where we didn't have to push the wildlife out of their homes." The city approved the construction of a sidewalk along Orchid Boulevard in May. Officials have identified three burrowing owl sites along the road. Christopher Kartes, another Cape Coral resident, has taken steps to help the owls by digging holes in his yard to provide them with alternative habitats. "I kind of hope that they leave the burrows alone, while also, I guess, trying to maintain the sidewalk they want to put in so desperately bad," Kartes said. "I've seen multiple owls just flying around and not having a home." Lopez emphasized the importance of preserving the owls for future generations. "I wish they would care more because I really want our future generations to see these animals thrive," Lopez said. The city confirmed it has applied for the necessary permits from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to address the presence of the burrowing owls along Orchid Boulevard. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.