by SC Reporter Emilie Alfino
The Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation presented a summary of findings regarding the damage coyotes on the island are doing to the turtle and bird nesting populations. With new programs featuring rebar anchor stakes, caging, and, with permission from the Fish & Wildlife Commission, the use of habanero pepper, the depredation rates are down.
In 2023 for sea turtles, the depredation rate was 43.5 percent; in 2024, as of August 3, the depredation rate was 19.57 percent.
For shorebirds in 2023, at least 30 least tern nests were depredated. In 2024, just one of two snowy plover nests were destroyed.
Council member John Henshaw said, “I don’t see that the studies are getting to the fundamental question: How many coyotes can Sanibel support? How much can we support without creating more aggressive animals? One option might be relocating animals off the island. It’s a challenge.”
“It’s important to remember that this is an issue in flux,” said Council member Laura DeBruce. “I think we should monitor this and take the citizens’ concerns seriously. We might see this changing over time as coyotes perhaps develop a taste for iguanas. Monitoring is critical, but our nature is in flux right now.”
Vice Mayor Mike Miller said he is not prepared to vote to fund a study at this time. City Manager Dana Souza said the City will keep open possibilities for grant funding of a study.
Citizens should report coyote sightings to the police non-emergency number (239) 472-3111.
Are there any plans to plant shade trees on the beach next to the old Mad Hatter?