Condo Roofs Becoming Home to Protected Birds

Many individuals residing in Florida community associations are attracted to their homes by the favorable climate and natural beauty, such as what is found along its beaches. Such conditions have served as the catalyst for much of the development within the state’s coastal areas. However, while the proliferation of communities within Florida’s coastline has allowed many to enjoy the state’s environmental wonders, careful consideration should be taken to preserve much of the natural species affected by the construction and development of such communities.

Birds Nesting on Condo Roofs

According to a recent Sun Sentinel article, Florida’s coastlines, which are home to thousands of condominium communities, are also a natural habitat for some threatened and protected birds and other animals. These include sea birds such as black skimmers, least terns, roseate terns, and American oystercatchers, which, according to the article, can all be found nesting on the rooftops of condominium buildings near the water.

A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission representative indicated to the newspaper’s reporter that “[b]uilding rooftops provide important alternative nesting habitat for shorebirds and seabirds” looking for protection from predators such as raccoons and feral cats. Their nesting material is often gravel.

How Can Condos Handle Nesting Birds

The article continues to mention that the species of birds which are nesting on the building roofs are protected, and it suggests certain steps that associations should implement to ensure the safety of the birds, chicks and unhatched eggs. For instance, associations that require roof repairs should implement those projects outside of the nesting season for their specific region, it states. FWC representatives also suggest that properties adding gravel to roofs should consult with one of its shorebird biologists for their region, as those experts can help associations determine how to best avoid any harm to nests.

How Can Condos Handle Turtle Nests

In a similar manner, development along Florida’s coastline has impacted sea turtle hatchlings during their nesting season. In an effort to curb the detrimental impacts on them during nesting season, coastal condominium properties and other buildings are prohibited from using lighting that is detrimental to the turtles. Additionally, individuals frequenting beaches along the coastal areas wherein many condominiums may be located are also encouraged to be mindful of sea turtle nesting areas, many of which may be marked by designated signs or other markings.

Conclusion

These are merely a few examples of how development along Florida’s coastal areas has resulted in an environmental impact, and communities have a social responsibility to maintain a harmonious balance between the privilege of coastal living and the preservation of the wildlife occupying developed areas.  The directors, managers and owners in condominium communities on or near Florida’s coastlines should bear in mind that they are sharing their homes with many species of birds, turtles and other wildlife that may be threatened unless they are protected. With the proper planning and guidance, communities and their residents can do their part to preserve the natural habitat that helps to make their location so alluring. Contact us for assistance with this and other community association-related issues.