To the editor:

As 2024 draws to a close, Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife (CCFW) would like to take a moment to express our heartfelt thanks to our supporters, donors and volunteers. Your dedication to our mission has made a tremendous impact on the preservation and enhancement of habitat for burrowing owls, gopher tortoises and other precious wildlife, and we are deeply grateful for your continued commitment.

We are also thankful to the Cape Coral community, whose support of our events and wildlife reporting plays a crucial role in our success. A special thank you goes out to the local businesses that generously donate to make our events possible and to the City of Cape Coral for cosponsoring the Burrowing Owl Festival and Ground Owl Day. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of our cherished wildlife species.

Here are some of the highlights from 2024:

Over 200 incredible volunteers logged more than 9,000 hours of service.

The 22nd Annual Burrowing Owl Festival attracted 3,700 visitors, helping to raise awareness about our beloved burrowing owls.

5,098 burrowing owls were counted in this year’s owl census, contributing vital data to wildlife conservation efforts.

Our sister organization, Cape Coral Wildlife Trust, now owns 79 lots in the Cape, totaling over 9 acres, with more planned for future protection.

Thanks to the advocacy of our dedicated volunteers, the City of Cape Coral received a grant from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission for up to $900,000 to purchase burrowing owl habitat.

Thousands of visitors from around the world toured the Tom Allen Butterfly House at Rotary Park, providing education and enjoyment to all.

The Purple Martin colony at Sirenia Vista Park saw 68 fledglings this year–an exciting success story for these migratory birds.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited for the 23rd Annual Burrowing Owl Festival, scheduled for February 22. We invite you to join us for this special event and consider volunteering to help make it a success. Whether it’s giving a few hours of your time or contributing in other ways, your involvement makes a meaningful difference. Also, don’t forget Ground Owl Day on February 10, when our mascot Athene will determine if Spring is on the way.

CCFW is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the habitats of protected wildlife species, as well as educating our community about Cape Coral’s rich wildlife resources. If you’re interested in donating, volunteering, or learning more, please visit our website at ccfriendsofwildlife.org or call us at 239-980-2593.

Thank you for being a part of this important work. Together, we can continue to protect the burrowing owls, gopher tortoises and other precious wildlife that makes Cape Coral such a special place to live, work, play and visit.

Sincerely,

Janet Windisch

Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife