09/02/2026
⛈️As we approach the peak of storm season here in Florida, it's important to protect your home and property. Things like dead trees and overhanging branches are risks during storms with high winds, and many people trim these trees or branches to prepare. Unfortunately, we see many patients each year that come in after being injured by lawn and tree equipment, orphaned after their parents are injured, or left without a home when their nest is cut or knocked down.❤️🩹
As you prepare for storms around your property, keep these tips in mind to help keep our wildlife safe.
🪹 Look for nests in tree cavities before cutting trees. Many animals make their homes in these sheltered hides, so taking a moment to check can save an entire family of animals.
Look for nests or families in and on dead trees, especially in cavities, branches, or even on the bark. If you need to remove a dead tree, try to ensure it is not being used as a habitat for wildlife.
🌴 Before cutting down the yellowed, dead palm fronds, check to make sure ther are no animals sheltering in them. Some species of bat will exclusively use these as their habitat, so keep an eye out!
🪵Before trimming branches, look for nests, especially where the branches meet the trunk of the tree. Even if you're trimming above or below, be careful around the nest.
🐦If a storm is forecast and you need to put your storm shutters up, ensure that you will not be trapping any wildlife inside, like birds or bats.
If you encounter any wildlife or nests while you are trimming trees and storm prepping, please do not remove the nest or the babies and contact a licensed wildlife rehablitator for more information on what to do. After storms, look around for any wildlife that might have gotten injured or stranded after the heavy rain and wind, or any nests that may have gotten knocked down. If you find anything, contact a lisenced wildlife rehabilitator right away.
Stay safe during storms, and help keep them safe too! Thanks for helping us keep wildlife wild!
