Listed Species Management Plan

ASHTON PLACE (F.K.A. ORANGE RIVER 130) LISTED SPECIES MANAGEMENT PLAN

April 2021

Prepared For:

11400 Orange River LLC 2970 Luckie Road Westin, Florida 33331 (305) 992-8467

Prepared By:

Passarella & Associates, Inc. 13620 Metropolis Avenue, Suite 200 Fort Myers, Florida 33912 (239) 274-0067

Project No. 20ORL3287 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

1.0 Introduction ...... 1

2.0 Lee County Protected Species Survey ...... 1

3.0 Site Plan ...... 2

4.0 Florida Pine Snake Management Plan ...... 3

4.1 Biology ...... 3 4.2 Management Plan...... 3

5.0 Wood Stork and Listed Wading Bird Management Plan...... 3

5.1 Management Plan...... 4

6.0 Least Tern Management Plan ...... 4

7.0 Florida Black Bear Management Plan ...... 4

7.1 Biology ...... 4 7.2 Management Plan...... 5

8.0 Florida Panther Management Plan ...... 5

8.1 Biology ...... 5 8.2 Management Plan...... 6

9.0 Big Cypress Fox Squirrel Management Plan ...... 6

9.1 Biology ...... 6 9.2 Pre-Construction Surveys ...... 7 9.3 Management Plan...... 7

i Table of Contents (Continued) Page

10.0 Florida Bonneted Bat Management Plan ...... 7

10.1 Biology ...... 7 10.2 Pre-Construction Surveys ...... 8 10.3 Management Plan...... 8

11.0 Human-Wildlife Coexistence Plan ...... 9

11.1 Wading Bird ...... 9 11.2 Florida Black Bear ...... 9 11.3 Florida Panther ...... 9 11.4 Big Cypress Fox Squirrel ...... 10 11.5 Florida Pine Snake ...... 10

12.0 Community Education Plan ...... 10

13.0 References ...... 10

ii LIST OF TABLES

Page

Table 1. Listed Wildlife Species Observed ...... 2

Table 2. Listed Plant Species Observed ...... 2

iii LIST OF APPENDICES

Page

Appendix A. Project Location Map ...... A-1

Appendix B. Aerial with Site Plan ...... B-1

Appendix C. Florida Black Bear Informational Pamphlet ...... C-1

Appendix D. Florida Panther Informational Pamphlet ...... D-1

Appendix E. Florida Pine Snake Information ...... E-1

Appendix F. Wading Bird Informational Pamphlet ...... F-1

Appendix G. FWCC List of Bear-Resistant Garbage Containers ...... G-1

Appendix H. Big Cypress Fox Squirrel Informational Pamphlet ...... H-1

iv 1.0 INTRODUCTION

This report documents the Listed Species Management Plan for Ashton Place (f.k.a. Orange River 130) (Project). The proposed Project consists of a single-family residential development with associated preserve area, stormwater management system, and created flow-way. Details associated with the proposed site plan are provided below in Section 3.0. The management plan contained in this report pertains to the Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus), wood stork (Mycteria americana) and other listed wading bird species, least tern (Sternula antillarum), Florida black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus), Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi), Big Cypress fox squirrel (Sciurus niger avicennia), and Florida bonneted bat (Eumops floridanus).

The Project site totals 128.79± acres and is located in Section 1, Township 44 South, Range 25 East, Lee County (Appendix A). More specifically, the Project is bordered to the west by Staley Road, to the south by Homestead Lane, and the north by Orange River Boulevard.

The subject property consists primarily of pastureland that is actively utilized for cattle grazing, with forested upland and wetland habitats along the southeastern boundary. The wetlands on-site contain various degrees of exotic vegetation including, but not limited to, Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia), java plum (Syzygium cumini), carrotwood (Cupaniopsis anacardioides), shoebutton ardisia (Ardisia elliptica), and wetland nightshade (Solanum tampicense). A ditch traverses the Project site lengthwise, conveying surface flow from south to north and terminating at the Orange River. The wetland system on-site has been drained, as indicated by mostly facultative species within the herbaceous stratum and thick sub-canopy establishment by cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto) and java plum. Additionally, the wetlands on-site have been degraded by cattle grazing activities.

2.0 LEE COUNTY PROTECTED SPECIES SURVEY

Passarella & Associates, Inc. (PAI) conducted a Lee County Protected Species Survey (PSS) on the Project site on June 24, 2020. No listed wildlife species were directly observed during the PSS. However, a gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) burrow and a Florida black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus) scratch tree were recorded during the PSS. The gopher tortoise burrow was recorded in a woodland pasture area (FLUCFCS Code 213). The gopher tortoise is a state-listed threatened species. The Florida black bear scratch tree was recorded in disturbed wetland/mixed hardwood conifer habitat (FLUCFCS Code 6309). The Florida black bear is not listed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC) or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) but is protected under the Lee County Land Development Code (LDC) and Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.) 68A-4.009.

Two listed plant species were documented on the Project site during the PSS, the Northern needleleaf (Tillandsia balbisiana) and cardinal airplant (Tillandsia fasciculata). The Northern needleleaf is listed as threatened by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), and the common wild pine is listed as endangered by the FDACS.

1 A report outlining the result of the PSS was provided in the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) Environmental Resource Permit application (No. 201030-5011) submitted for the Project. A summary of the listed wildlife (sign) and plants observed during the PSS are provided in Tables 1 and 2, respectively.

Table 1. Listed Wildlife Species Observed

Status Common Name Scientific Name FWCC USFWS Reptiles Gopher tortoise (burrow) Gopherus polyphemus ST - Mammals Florida black bear (scratch tree) Ursus americanus floridanus ** -

FWCC – Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission USFWS – U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service ST – State Threatened **Protected under the Lee County LDC and F.A.C. 68A-4.009

Table 2. Listed Plant Species Observed

Status Common Name Scientific Name FDACS USFWS Cardinal airplant Tillandsia fasciculata SE - Northern needleleaf Tillandsia balbisiana ST -

FDACS – Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services USFWS – U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service SE – State Endangered ST – State Threatened

3.0 SITE PLAN

The proposed Project consists of a single-family, residential development with an associated preserve area, stormwater management system, and created flow-way (Appendix B). The water conveyed by the existing ditch will be rerouted through a sinuous, created flow-way along the perimeter of the Project and conveyed via pipe beneath the on-site wetland and entryway. The proposed site plan has been designed to minimize and avoid permanent wetland impacts by preserving and enhancing 11.48± acres of on-site wetlands. A small amount (0.25± acre) of temporary wetland impacts are proposed, which are associated with the construction of the created flow-way. The proposed flow-way will provide greater ecological benefit than the existing ditch. Stormwater management lakes will be created as part of the SFWMD surface water management system. The discharge of treated stormwater will be utilized to improve the hydroperiod of the wetland system on-site. As such, the proposed Project will not cause a net adverse impact on wetland or other surface water functions. The created flow-way, on-site wetland, and stormwater management lakes may provide habitat for the wood stork and other listed wading bird species. As such, the management plans detailed below address these species.

2 4.0 FLORIDA PINE SNAKE MANAGEMENT PLAN

No Florida pine snakes were observed during the Project’s PSS or other fieldwork. However, there is potential for the species to occur within gopher tortoise burrows or other underground refuges found in the improved pasture, woodland pasture, and pine flatwood habitats on-site.

The following management plan outlines the protection guidelines that will be implemented for the Florida pine snake if they are to be found on-site. The Florida pine snake is listed as threatened by the FWCC.

4.1 Biology

The Florida pine snake is a diurnal, long-living serpent with records of individuals living up to 19 years of age. Most adult pine snakes range between 34 and 59 inches long, but some can attain a total length of over 90 inches (Tennant 2003). The Florida pine snake is a secretive animal that spends most of its life underground, living primarily in small mammal and gopher tortoise burrows. Pocket gophers (Geomys sp.) are the Florida pine snake’s main prey item, but various other small mammals and birds are also eaten. Florida pine snakes are most often found in sandy habitats that contain open longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) and turkey oak (Quercus laevis) plant communities with a sustainable population of pocket gophers. Other preferred habitat types include abandoned field, open pine, scrub, and sandhill habitats. Florida pine snakes can occasionally be found above ground from May through October (Hipes et al. 2000) but may surface in warmer conditions throughout the year in Southern Florida. Breeding occurs in spring, with pine snakes laying approximately eight eggs in their resident burrows between June and August (Ashton and Ashton 1981, Hipes et al. 2000).

4.2 Management Plan

Problematic encounters between future residents and the Florida pine snake are not anticipated. Construction personnel, maintenance staff, and homeowners will be informed that Florida pine snakes are a protected species.

If a Florida pine snake is observed during construction of the Project site, the snake will be allowed to leave safely on its own accord. In addition, it is recommended that sightings of Florida pine snakes be reported to the FWCC to further research efforts for this species.

5.0 WOOD STORK AND LISTED WADING BIRD MANAGEMENT PLAN

No wood storks or other listed wading birds were observed roosting or foraging on-site during the PSS. Additionally, no nesting activity by wood storks or other listed wading birds has been observed during the PSS or other fieldwork on the Project. Once the Project’s stormwater management lakes and created flow-way have been constructed, it is anticipated that wood storks and other wading birds such as limpkin (Aramus guarauna), little blue herons (Egretta caerulea), roseate spoonbills (Platalea ajaja), snowy egrets (Egretta thula), and tri-colored herons (Egretta tricolor), may utilize

3 the Project. The wood stork is listed as federally threatened by the FWCC and the USFWS. The following management plan has been prepared for addressing the management of wood storks and other wading birds that may utilize the site.

5.1 Management Plan

Stormwater management lakes, preserved wetlands, and created flow-ways constructed for the Project may offer potential wading bird foraging habitat on-site; however, problematic encounters between future residents and wading birds are not anticipated. Construction personnel, maintenance staff, and homeowners will be informed that the wading birds are protected species.

6.0 LEAST TERN MANAGEMENT PLAN

No least terns were observed on-site during the PSS or other fieldwork. However, there is potential for the species to occur on the Project after it has been cleared. The least tern is listed and designated as state threatened by the FWCC.

While existing conditions on-site likely do not support least tern nesting, clearing associated with construction may create conditions favorable for beach-nesting colonies. If least terns are observed nesting during construction or maintenance activities, FWCC staff will be notified, and a buffer will be provided to the nest to avoid disturbance. Research conducted recommends a disturbance buffer of 180 meters (about 197 yards) for least tern nests (FWCC 2013). If maintaining a 180-meter buffer is not possible, FWCC staff will be contacted to discuss methods to reduce disturbance to the nest.

Problematic encounters between future residents and least terns are not anticipated. Construction personnel, maintenance staff, and homeowners will be informed that least terns are a protected species.

7.0 FLORIDA BLACK BEAR MANAGEMENT PLAN

A Florida black bear scratch tree was documented on the Project site during the PSS. The following habitat management plan has been prepared to address the Project’s location within the South Bear Management Unit (FWCC 2019) and documented the frequency of bears within this area. The Florida black bear is not listed by the FWCC or the USFWS. However, the Florida black bear is protected under the Lee County LDC and F.A.C. 68A-4.009. Additionally, the FWCC has specific management activities for this species.

7.1 Biology

The Florida black bear is a subspecies of the American black bear (Ursus americanus). The Florida black bear is a solitary animal that inhabits heavily wooded terrain and is most often found in large tracts of swamp forest and undisturbed upland forest. Some of the most important habitat types for the Florida black bear include pine flatwoods, hardwood swamps,

4 cypress swamps, cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto) forests, sand pine scrub, and mixed hardwood hammocks. Denning often occurs in remote swamps or thickets with dense vegetation. Adult females breed in alternating years during June and July. In Florida, hibernation may be restricted to females producing cubs. Hibernation most often occurs during the winter months. The diet of Florida black bears is highly variable and includes both plants and animals, including saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) berries, honeybees (Apis sp.), ants (Formicidae sp.), armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus), feral hog (Sus scrofa), and white- tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) (Humphrey 1992).

7.2 Management Plan

To avoid problematic encounters between future residents and Florida black bears, the FWCC’s educational brochure entitled “A Guide to Living in Bear Country” (Appendix C) will be provided to homeowners and maintenance staff (see Section 9.2). Additionally, construction personnel will be instructed to keep construction sites clean, with refuse that might attract bears kept separate from construction debris and stored securely in bear- resistant containers or removed daily from the construction site before dark.

8.0 FLORIDA PANTHER MANAGEMENT PLAN

No Florida panther or signs of Florida panther were documented on the Project site during the PSS or other fieldwork and the Project is not located within the USFWS Florida panther focus area (Kautz et al. 2006). However, there are documented Florida panther telemetry points proximate to the Project site. This management plan has been prepared to address the Florida panther. The Florida panther is listed as endangered by the FWCC and the USFWS.

8.1 Biology

The Florida panther is a large, long-tailed cat with a great deal of color variation: pale brown or rusty upper parts; dull white or buff-colored under parts; and dark brown or blackish tail tip, back of ears, and sides of the nose. Mature males have an average weight range between 100 to 150 pounds and measure nearly seven feet from nose to tip of the tail. Females are considerably smaller, with a weight range of 50 to 100 pounds and measuring about six feet (USFWS 1987). Panthers subsist on a variety of mammalian prey dominated by white-tailed deer, feral hog, and in some areas, raccoon (Procyon lotor) (Maehr 1988a). Existing data on Florida panther reproduction indicates that breeding occurs throughout the year with a peak in the winter/spring period, a gestation period of around 90 to 95 days, litter sizes of one to four kittens, and a breeding cycle of two years for females successfully raising young to dispersal (which occurs around 18 to 24 months) (Belden 1988, Maehr 1988b). In terms of population size and occupied range, the Florida panther population is stable and expanding, as evidenced by natality rates exceeding mortality rates and recent dispersals north of the Caloosahatchee River (Land et al. 2000). According to Maehr et al. (1991), home ranges average 200 square miles for resident adult males, 75 square miles for adult females, 241 square miles for transient males, and 69 square miles for sub-adult females. Florida panthers inhabit large remote tracts of land with adequate prey and cover and occupy

5 a variety of habitat types including hardwood hammocks, pine flatwoods, mixed hardwood swamps, and cypress swamps. Appropriate cover is an essential component of habitats used, especially during hunting, denning, and day-bedding. Recent information based on global positioning system (GPS) telemetry data collected during nocturnal and diurnal periods indicate that forests are the habitats selected by panthers (Land et al. 2008).

8.2 Management Plan

To avoid problematic encounters between future residents and Florida panthers, the educational brochure entitled “A Guide to Living with Florida Panthers” (Appendix D), prepared by the FWCC and the USFWS, will be provided to homeowners and maintenance staff. Garbage management practices referenced above in Section 6.2 and again in Section 9.2 for the Florida black bear will also help reduce the potential for human-wildlife interactions with the Florida panther by deterring panther prey from the Project site.

9.0 BIG CYPRESS FOX SQUIRREL MANAGEMENT PLAN

No Big Cypress fox squirrels were observed during the PSS or other fieldwork conducted for the Project site. Despite the Project’s existing habitats being heavily degraded by Brazilian pepper, there is potential for the species to utilize the pasture and forested systems on-site. The following management plan outlines the protection guidelines that will be implemented for the Big Cypress fox squirrel before and during the construction of the Project. The Big Cypress fox squirrel is listed as threatened by the FWCC.

9.1 Biology

The Big Cypress fox squirrel lives and breeds in varied habitats in Southwest Florida, including cypress swamps, pine flatwoods, tropical hardwood forests, live oak woods, mangrove forests, and suburban habitats, including golf courses, city parks, and residential areas in native vegetation (Humphrey 1992). Dense cypress/hardwood swamps are avoided, which may be due to the competition for food and habitat with the gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis). Little data is available on the preferred forage habitat of the Big Cypress fox squirrel. Big Cypress fox squirrels prefer to feed on the male and female cones of slash pines. Cabbage palm fruits, bromeliad buds, and acorns are also essential food items. A smaller percentage of the diet may consist of seasonal fruits, berries, and seeds (Humphrey 1992).

Big Cypress fox squirrels often form platform nests in pines and hardwoods and also moss and stick nests in cypress, tops of cabbage palms, and large clumps of bromeliads. Cabbage palms and bromeliads are essential because they can provide immediate shelter, which allows the squirrel to travel over large areas without requiring a daily return to a permanent nesting facility (Humphrey 1992).

Big Cypress fox squirrels are solitary animals. Interaction between animals occurs primarily during mating season. Mating chases frequently occur throughout May through August.

6 During the non-mating season, interactions are infrequent and often occur around food sources. Young remain in the nest for approximately 90 days. Home ranges are 40± hectares (100± acres) for males and 20± hectares (50± acres) for females (Humphrey 1992).

9.2 Pre-Construction Surveys

A qualified ecologist will be on the site to supervise Big Cypress fox squirrel management and monitoring activities as detailed in this plan. Before the commencement of clearing activities in the development area, a survey will be conducted by a qualified ecologist to identify potential Big Cypress fox squirrel nests. If potential nests are identified within the clearing limits, observations will be conducted to determine if the nests are being utilized by Big Cypress fox squirrels. The FWCC will be notified of nests determined to be utilized by Big Cypress fox squirrels. Active nests will be temporarily protected from clearing by a minimum 175-meter (574-foot) buffer until juvenile fox squirrels have vacated the nest(s), as confirmed by a qualified ecologist. After completion of nesting and observations documenting that juvenile fox squirrels have vacated the nest(s), a written request to remove the nest tree(s) will be made to the FWCC. Following receipt of the written authorization from the FWCC, the nest tree and buffer can then be cleared.

9.3 Management Plan

Problematic encounters between future residents and Big Cypress fox squirrels are not anticipated. Construction personnel, maintenance staff, and homeowners will be informed that the Big Cypress fox squirrel is a protected species.

10.0 FLORIDA BONNETED BAT MANAGEMENT PLAN

The Florida bonneted bat is listed as threatened by the FWCC and endangered by the USFWS.

10.1 Biology

The Florida bonneted bat is the largest species of bat found in Florida with an average wingspan of 490 to 530 millimeters (19.3 to 20.9 inches) and an average length of 130 to 165 millimeters (5.1 to 6.5 inches). They are members of the Molossidae family, commonly referred to as free-tailed bats. Molossids, including Florida bonneted bats, have tails that extend well beyond their short tail membrane. Like other free-tailed bats, the Florida bonneted bat has small eyes; large upper lips; and long, narrow wings (Marks and Marks 2006). Their fur is short and glossy with sharply bicolored hairs with a white base (Timm and Genoways 2004). Their fur ranges from dark gray to brownish-gray or cinnamon brown on its dorsal side, with lighter, grayish fur underneath. The Florida bonneted bat is characterized by its large size and its large, broad ears that slant forward over the eyes and join together along the midline of the head. Their big ears protrude over their head like a bonnet, giving them their name (Marks and Marks 2006).

7 The current range of the Florida bonneted bat is known to include Central and South Florida, with lower probability of occurrence in areas where historical mean minimum temperatures drop below 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) (USFWS 2020). Data indicates that the core range may be located within Charlotte, Lee, Collier, Monroe, and Miami-Dade counties; along with portions of Okeechobee, Polk, DeSoto, Hendry, and Broward counties. Possible use of areas within Glades and Highlands counties is also indicated (USFWS 2019).

Habitat for the Florida bonneted bat consists mainly of foraging areas and roosting sites, including some artificial structures in both urban and forested areas (USFWS 2014). They are known to roost in rock crevices, tree cavities, buildings, and bat boxes (Marks and Marks 2008). South Florida bonneted bats roost primarily in trees and man-made artificial structures, with roost availability indicated as an important limiting factor (USFWS 2014). Foraging habitat includes areas over open freshwater such as ponds, streams, and wetlands; and they will drink when flying over open water (USFWS 2014). They will also forage for insects over treetops and other open areas such as golf courses (Marks and Marks 2006). During the dry season, the bonneted bat becomes more dependent upon the remaining open water habitats such as ponds, streams, and wetland areas for foraging activities (USFWS 2014).

10.2 Pre-Construction Surveys

Before the commencement of clearing activities in the development area, a survey will be conducted by a qualified ecologist to determine if Florida bonneted bats are utilizing cavities within the Project site for roosting. The cavity tree survey will include pedestrian transects to locate cavity trees and then an inspection of the cavity trees for the presence of roosting Florida bonneted bats. If cavities within the Project site are determined to be utilized by Florida bonneted bats, the USFWS will be notified and construction/land clearing activities within 250 feet of the potential roost will cease until USFWS coordination is completed.

10.3 Management Plan

No Florida bonneted bats have been documented on-site or in the general vicinity of the Project during the PSS or other fieldwork conducted for the Project. As such, the Project is not expected to have adverse impacts on the bonneted bat. The preservation and enhancement of 18.04± acres of native habitat, proposed flow-way creation, and proposed stormwater lakes will provide foraging habitat for bonneted bats.

Problematic encounters between future residents and bonneted bats are not anticipated. Should bonneted bats choose to roost adjacent to the community, the roost will be left undisturbed.

8 11.0 HUMAN-WILDLIFE COEXISTENCE PLAN

The following Human-Wildlife Coexistence Plan will be incorporated into the declaration of covenants of the Project’s Homeowners Association or Community Development District documents.

11.1 Florida Pine Snake

An informational document entitled “Florida Pine Snake” (Appendix E) will be provided to homeowners and maintenance staff. The brochure provides information on the listing status and identification of the Florida pine snake. This document can also be found at https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/reptiles/snakes/florida-pine-snake/ .

Individuals are encouraged to report sightings of Florida pine snakes to the FWCC to further research efforts for this species. Sightings of the Florida pine snake may be reported online at https://public.myfwc.com/fwri/raresnakes/GetLatLong.aspx?id=fps .

11.2 Wading Birds

A wading bird informational brochure entitled “Wading Bird Informational Pamphlet” (Appendix F) will be provided to homeowners and maintenance staff. The brochure provides wading bird information and methods to prevent human-wading bird interactions. In addition, the brochure informs residents of the need to avoid disturbance around a nest(s), should a wading bird nest(s) be identified on the property.

11.3 Florida Black Bear

Residents will be educated about the presence of black bears in their community. FWCC’s educational brochure entitled “A Guide to Living in Bear Country” (Appendix C) will be provided to homeowners and maintenance staff. This brochure and others can be found at http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/bear/brochures/.

Garbage and recyclables will be stored in bear-resistant containers with appropriate locking mechanisms, and bear-resistant dumpsters will be used in areas where communal garbage is collected, provided that the containers are compatible with local waste collection equipment. A list of companies obtained from the FWCC that provide bear-resistant garbage containers for commercial and residential use is provided as Appendix G. Bear-resistant receptacles will be required for each residential unit. In consultation with the local waste disposal company, bear-resistant dumpsters will be purchased from one of the listed companies or another company that is able to provide bear-resistant dumpsters compatible with local equipment. They will be incorporated at the time Lee County’s waste collection sub-contractor makes them available for use. Units that have curbside garbage service will be required to place garbage containers curbside no earlier than the morning of the days of garbage pickup, and garbage containers will be returned to their permitted location no later than the evening of the days of garbage pickup. For units with curbside garbage service, all garbage, trash refuse, or rubbish will be required to be placed in appropriate garbage containers and stored inside

9 an enclosed area except for the days when there is curbside garbage pickup service. For units without curbside garbage service, all garbage, trash refuse, or rubbish will be placed in bear- resistant dumpsters with the lid closed and secured.

11.4 Florida Panther

Residents will be educated about the presence of Florida panthers in their community. The educational brochure entitled “A Guide to Living with Florida Panthers” (Appendix D), prepared by the FWCC and the USFWS, will be provided to homeowners and maintenance staff. This brochure provides safety tips and instructions for panther encounters. The brochure can be found on the FWCC website located at https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/panther/living/. Residents will also be encouraged to review garbage management practices for the Florida black bear as detailed above in Section 9.2.

11.5 Big Cypress Fox Squirrel

An informational brochure entitled “Big Cypress Fox Squirrel Informational Pamphlet” (Appendix H) will be provided to homeowners and maintenance staff. The brochure provides Big Cypress fox squirrel information and precautions to prevent disturbances to the Big Cypress fox squirrel.

12.0 COMMUNITY EDUCATION PLAN

Community informational and educational brochures may be created and provided as needed to keep residents informed and in compliance with wildlife regulations. Continued education will ensure that the community is well informed regarding wildlife coexistence.

13.0 REFERENCES

Ashton, R.E., Jr. and P.S. Ashton. 1981. Handbook of Reptiles and Amphibians of Florida. Part I, The Snakes. Miami: Windward Publishing.

Belden, R.C. 1988. The Florida Panther. Pages 514-532 in W.J. Chandler (ed) Audubon Wildlife Report. 1988/1989. The National Audubon Society, New York. 817 pages.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 2013. A species action plan for four imperiled species of beach-nesting birds. Tallahassee, Florida.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 2019. Florida black bear management plan. Tallahassee, Florida.

Hipes, D., D.R. Jackson, K. NeSmith, D. Printiss, and K. Brandt. 2000. Field guide to the rare animals of Florida. Florida Natural Areas Inventory, Tallahassee.

10 Humphrey, Stephen R. 1992. Rare and Endangered Biota of Florida; Volume I. Mammals. University Press of Florida, Gainesville, FL. 392 pages.

Kautz, R., R. Kawula, T. Hoctor, J. Comiskey, D. Jansen, D. Jennings, J. Kasbohm, F. Mazzotti, R. McBride, L. Richardson, K. Root. 2006. How much is enough? Landscape-scale conservation for the Florida panther. Biological Conservation, Volume 130, Issue 1, Pages 118-133.

Land, E.D., M. Lotz, D. Shindle, and S.K. Taylor. 2000. Florida panther genetic restoration and management. Annual report, Study Number 7508. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Tallahassee, Florida.

Land, E.D., D.B. Shindle, R. J. Kawula, J.F. Benson, M.A. Lotz, D.P. Onorato. 2008. Florida panther habitat selection analysis of concurrent GPS and VHF telemetry data. Journal of Wildlife Management: Volume 72, No. 3 pp. 633–639.

Maehr, D.S. 1988a. Florida Panther Movements, Social Organization and Habitat Utilization. Annual Performance Report, 7/1/87-6/30/88, Study No. E-1-12 II-E-2 7502, Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission. 19 pages.

Maehr, D.S. 1988b. Florida Panther Food Habits and Energetics. Annual Performance Report, 7/1/87-6/30/88, Study No. E-1-12 II-E-3 75O3, Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission. 4 pages.

Maehr, D.S., E.D. Land, and J.C. Roof. 1991. Social Ecology of Florida Panthers. National Geographic Research & Exploration, 7(4): 414-431.

Marks, C.S. and G.E. Marks. 2006. Bats of Florida. University Press of Florida, Gainesville, Florida

Marks, G.E. and C.S. Marks. 2008. Status of the Florida bonneted bat (Eumops floridanus). Final report. Submitted by the Florida Bat Conservancy under grant agreement number 401815G 192. Florida Bat Conservancy. Bay Pines, Florida.

Timm, R.M., and H.H. Genoways. 2004. The Florida bonneted bat, Eumops floridanus (Chiroptera: Molossidae): distribution, morphometrics, systematics, and ecology. Journal of Mammalogy. 85: 852-865.

Tennant, A. 2003. Snakes of Florida. Lone Star Field Guide, second edition. Taylor Trade Publishing.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1987. Florida Panther Recovery Plan. Prepared by the Florida Panther Interagency Committee for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Atlanta, Georgia. 75 pages.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2014. Biological Opinion for Golf Club of the Everglades. Service CPA Code 2014-CPA-0037. South Florida Ecological Services Office, Vero Beach, Florida.

11 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2019. Biological Opinion for Hudson Creek. Service Consultation Code 04EF2000-2019-F-0083. South Florida Ecological Services Office, Vero Beach, Florida.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2020. Designation of Critical Habitat for Florida Bonneted Bat (Proposed Rule). South Florida Ecological Services Office, Vero Beach, Florida.

APPENDIX A

PROJECT LOCATION MAP

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 DRAWN BY DATE   

 D.B. 7/30/20 

 REVIEWED BY DATE  

 APPENDIX A. PROJECT LOCATION MAP 

 L.E. 7/30/20   REVISED DATE  ASHTON PLACE     

APPENDIX B

AERIAL WITH SITE PLAN

P/L

LAKE

SCALE: 1" = 400'

LITTORAL ZONE

LAKE LAKE LAKE

CA-1 P/L (18.04 Ac.±)

LAKE

LEGEND: LAKE PRESERVE AREA (18.04 Ac.±)

NOTES:

AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS WERE ACQUIRED THROUGH THE LEE COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER'S OFFICE WITH A FLIGHT DATE OF JANUARY - MAY 2020. LITTORAL ZONE PROPERTY BOUNDARY PER BARRACO AND ASSOCIATES, INC. DRAWING No. 23886S00.DWG DATED JULY 28, 2020.

SITE PLAN PER BARRACO AND ASSOCIATES, INC. DRAWING No. 23886E00.dwg DATED NOVEMBER 23, 2020.

DRAWN BY DATE P.F. 3/4/21 APPENDIX B. AERIAL WITH SITE PLAN REVIEWED BY DATE J.S. 3/4/21 ASHTON PLACE REVISED DATE J:\2020\20orl3287\2021\Listed Species Management Plan\Appendix B Aerial with Site Plan.dwg Tab: 11X8-C Apr 23, 2021 - 10:49am Plotted by: Felipe by: 10:49am Plotted 2021 - Apr 23, Tab: 11X8-C Plan.dwg with Site B Aerial Plan\Appendix Management Species J:\2020\20orl3287\2021\Listed

APPENDIX C

FLORIDA BLACK BEAR INFORMATIONAL PAMPHLET

Where bears live in Florida A guide to living in bear country Eglin AFB Eglin

Secure your garbage Store garbage in a secure area, such as a sturdy

shed or garage, until the morning of pickup, or Fox Milt Build a small shed to store trash cans. Be sure there are no gaps along the shed’s edges and use screws. If the shed is curbside, call your waste How FWC responds to conflicts service provider to ensure it will still service your trash cans, or The FWC addresses human-bear conflicts in a variety If you are experiencing bear conflicts, please contact of ways, including providing technical assistance over the nearest FWC regional office. The sooner the FWC Modify your regular trash can to make it bear-resistant the phone, conducting an in-person visit with the knows about bear activity, the more options are by adding hardware. To be successful, the lid must resident, using deterrents (such as an electric fence), available to prevent a bear from becoming a public not be flexible and the can must not collapse when attempting to scare the bear away, or, in rare cases, safety risk. you stand on its side. Call your waste service attempting to trap the bear. provider to ensure it will service a modified trash North Central Lake City (386) 758-0525 While most conflicts can be avoided by securing can, or Northeast Ocala (352) 732-1225 attractants, biologists assess each situation on Request a commercially manufactured bear- a case-by-case basis and use FWC policies and Northwest Panama City (850) 265-3676 resistant trash can from your waste service guidelines to help decide on the most appropriate South West Palm Beach (561) 625-5122 provider. If they do not provide these cans, you response. can special order one from a hardware store, but Southwest Lakeland (863) 648-3200 ensure your waste service provider will service it. The earlier the FWC is notified, the more response options are available. In an emergency or if you suspect illegal activity, call The longer a conflict situation continues, the more the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922). likely the bear will develop behaviors that present Follow us on: a risk to public safety, such as entering a dwelling, harming a leashed dog or injuring a person. Once this happens, it is too late to try to change the bear’s behavior and it must be humanely killed. Ashley Hockenberry

Funds from Florida’s “Conserve Wildlife” Warning! It is illegal to take, possess, injure, license plate help conserve bears and shoot, collect or sell black bears under Florida reduce human-bear conflicts. Buy one state law unless authorized by an FWC-issued MyFWC.com/Bear today through your local tax collector’s permit. If you are found guilty, you could face MyFWC.com/Bear fines and/or jail time. office or online at BuyAPlate.com. printed on recycled paper 8/2018 ispose of food remnants/grease after each foodispose of use. remnants/grease o keep bearso keep from away a specificsuch area, as Keep garageKeep doors closed when use. not in Feed pets indoors empty or bring food (even dishes Store pet and livestock feed bear-resistant in or modifyRemove feeders bird and wildlife and Properly harvest ripe nuts, fruits, and vegetables and mat driving by finishing Create an “unwelcome” meatClean smokers and barbeque with grills a Use electricUse fencing protect to gardens, garbage, Keep outdoorKeep refrigerators and freezers a secure in containers a secure or inside area. theensure ground free feed is all debris. of a sheet into anchored of heads up, plywoodnails, t compost beehives, fruit piles, trees and livestock. degreasing detergent and store a secure in area. D location or lock with up super-adhesive anchors, Marine Locks™. like ones) inside at ones) night. fruits and vegetables. rotten remove under doora window, or fence. Avoid attracting bears Avoid Bears do not hang around people if theydo not find food. Properly storing or securing garbage and other attractantsproven a is method preventingof bear it a community-widetakes conflicts. However, effort bears keep to from and wild away neighborhoods. A screened-in porch will not keep bears out! A screened-in keep not will porch . WC (see back cover). WC (see . The guide is r in a calm, assertive voice. n scare the bear with away like loud noises, Installmotion-activateda such device, flood as lights, Report bear any threatening the safety people, of Never approach a bear. Keep as much as Keep distanceNever approach a bear. If a bear changes its behavior because you’re If you encounter a bear stand at range, close with Do not turn your back, dead play or run from a sure you are a secureMake in such area, a car as or Walk dogs on a non-retractableWalk and leash be building, and thebuilding, bear a clear escape has route, or livestock, or causing propertypets to damage, between you and the bear possible. as arms raised, back and slowly up speak the to yelling, blowing a whistle, or using an air or car an air or horn. using blowing a whistle, yelling, Encourage your school Encourage your use the to Florida system Black Bear Curriculum Guide designed for grades 8 3 to and state to is correlated standards.education a water sprinkler scare or to alarm, audio a bear from away a location when you are not present. BearWise tips: you are too there, close. black bear. the the F bea aware your of surroundings.Dogs can trigger defensive behaviorsfrom bears. Learnall about bears and Florida’s being at BearWise MyFWC.com/BearWise for use on bears. Make sure to buy spray designed buy spray to sure Make to bearto (20-30 escape ft.) and route. your paying attention windpaying direction, to distance Carry bear spray and learn how to use it properly, Carry use bear and it to properly, spray learn how It illegalis put to out food or garbage that and bears attracts causes conflicts. Anything that attracts dogs, cats or raccoons also attracts bears! Bear behavior andBear behavior you Black bears and are generally shy not aggressive. When seen near homes or workplaces, bears are often passing just through. When frightened, bears typically run a tree. a If or a bear in climb away is either ittree, is feeding or trying escape to danger. and the peopleKeep leave bear will and pets away, on after its usually own, dark. When a bear stands trying it on is its legs, hind get to a better view or scent. Black bears huff, may snap swat thetheir jaws, ground or “bluff when charge” cornered, threatened or defending food or young. If hold your ground happens,this stop, and then slowly back away. Remember bears powerful, are large, animals wild that can act unpredictably and become dangerous. Bears who receive food from people their lose may natural fear them damage of to and are more likely property or become a public safety risk. NEVER feed or attract bears. If a bear eating is something on your property, take note of what and it secure is it after the bear left has the area.

Ashley Hockenberry etc.) carrion, ossums, armadillos, 5% Meat 5% (op uits, nuts, (fr berries, etc.) 80% Plants best of any land mammal.

Breeding occurs from with June August, to cubs born females squareOn range average, 15 miles over Females their first have litter around 3 yearsof age, Adult bears typically weigh between 400 to 150 Bears can pick scents up from away: a mile over Black bears are the only species of bear in Florida. Black bears are the only species bear of Florida. in Biologists estimate approximately black 4,000 bears compared roam Florida as few as to today, 300 bears the in 1970s.

pounds, with males often twice females. of the size

and males range 60 over square miles. with one three to cubs born every other year.

that’s seven times seven better thanthat’s a bloodhound and

around February around 1.

the The bearThe facts bees, etc.) 15% Insects ants, (termites, A bear’s diet A bear’s

APPENDIX D

FLORIDA PANTHER INFORMATIONAL PAMPHLET

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 620 S. Meridian Street Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600 MyFWC.com/Panther

printed on recycled paper

Mark Lotz There has never been a Make gestures that indicate you are reported panther attack Florida. in In western states, where attacks cougars by have occurred very potential rarely, victims have fought back jackets, caps, sticks, with rocks, successfully gardenand tools their bare hands. Since largecats usually try bite to the head or neck,try remain to standing and face the animal. Do not run. Running may stimulate a panther’s instinct Stand chase. to and face the Make animal. contacteye let to the panther know you are aware of its presence. crouching SquattingAvoid or bending or over. resemblingbending a prey- makes you look smaller, sized animal. Appear larger. not prey and that you may be a danger the to your Raise arms. Openpanther. your jacket. Throw stones, branches or whatever you can reach without crouching or turning your back. your Wave arms slowly and speak firmlyin a loud voice. Fight back if attacked. Keep children Keep within sight and close Pick you. to small up any children so panic they don’t and run. do to thisTry without bending or over turning away from the Florida panther. themGive space. Florida panthers typically will a confrontation.avoid Give them escape. a way to

If you see a Florida see If panther you The Florida panther moves primarily at night. The chances of seeing a panther But are slim. if youlive in Florida panther country, you need know to what do to if one. see you If you feel threatened or feel a panther, If you by a panther, to pets lost or livestock have please call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Wildlife Commission’s Conservation Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC. (3922) You live in Florida panther live country You Keep children within sight and close you, to especially outdoors between dusk and dawn. This brochure contains some you help live to guidelines safely Florida in panther country. Florida panthers are reclusive and rarely seen people. by They normally undeveloped live remote, in areas. the as number of peopleHowever, southern in Florida grows, there an increased is chance of an encounter with a Florida panther. Panther bro12.indd 1 7 ways to live safely in Florida panther country Florida panther facts

While these guidelines are meant to help you live safely The Florida panther is a subspecies of puma, There is no record of a Florida panther attacking in Florida panther habitat, they also apply to living with also known as a mountain lion or cougar. It is the a person. Florida panthers are rarely seen. more commonly encountered wildlife, including raccoons, last subspecies still surviving in the eastern United snakes, bears and alligators. The biggest threat to the future of the Florida States. panther is habitat loss. A number of panthers also 1. Be alert from dusk ’til dawn (and whenever deer Biologists estimate roughly 100-160 adult and die each year due to vehicle strikes on roadways. are active) subadult Florida panthers remain in the wild. Most The Florida panther was chosen as the State Florida panthers primarily are active at night. Exercise panthers live in southwest Florida, south of the Animal of Florida in 1982 by a vote of elementary more caution at dawn, dusk or dark. Caloosahatchee River, although some panthers have school students throughout the state. been documented traveling as far north as central 2. Keep panther prey away Georgia. Deer, raccoons, rabbits, armadillos and wild hogs are prey for the Florida panther. By feeding deer or other The Florida panther’s decline occurred prior to wildlife, people inadvertently may attract panthers. 1950, when it still was legal to hunt panthers. It Do not leave potential wildlife food outside, such as was listed as endangered in 1967 and is protected unsecured garbage or pet food. Consider fencing under federal and state laws. vegetable gardens. Keep livestock safe and secure. Florida panther numbers declined to roughly 30 3. Keep pets secure cats by the early 1980s. Severe inbreeding resulted in many health and physical problems. A genetic Free-roaming pets, or pets that are tethered and 4. Keep domestic livestock secure restoration project in 1995 was successful in unfenced, are easy prey for predators, including Where practical, place chickens, goats, hogs or other improving the genetic health and vigor of the panthers. Bring pets inside or keep them in a secure livestock in enclosed structures at night. Electric panther population. and covered kennel at night. Feeding pets outside fencing can be an effective predator deterrent. also may attract raccoons and other panther prey; Florida panthers are found primarily in the Big 5. Landscape for safety do not leave uneaten pet food available to wildlife. Cypress/Everglades ecosystem in Collier, Lee, Florida Panther Range Remove dense or low-lying vegetation that would Hendry, Monroe and Miami-Dade counties. provide hiding places for panthers and other predatory Florida panthers’ home range sizes vary by sex animals near your house. Known Breeding Range and by individual. Female home ranges are typically Remove plants that deer like to eat. 60-75 square miles whereas males’ are typically Confirmed Presence of Males Choose plants that do not attract deer or other 160-200 square miles. Caloosahatchee River panther prey species. For information on plants that and Lake Okeechobee deer do not like to eat, visit edis.ifas.ufl.edu/UW137. Appropriate fencing will make your yard or play area uninviting to prey animals such as deer.

6. Consider other deterrents Outdoor lighting, motion sensors and electric fencing also may deter prey animals and panthers from entering your yard. Outdoor lighting also will make approaching prey and panthers more visible to you.

7. Hike or bike with a friend team panther FWC This brochure was produced through a partnership of the Audubon Society of Florida, Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Defenders of Wildlife, Florida Fish and Wildlife When recreating outdoors, it’s a good practice to let Conservation Commission, Florida Wildlife Federation, Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge, Keep your pets safe and secure. Bring pets inside friends or family know your whereabouts and when you Mountain Lion Foundation, National Park Service, National Wildlife Federation, Seminole Tribe of Florida, University of Florida and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. or keep them in a secure and covered kennel at night. expect to return. Better yet, take a friend with you! Funding provided by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

Panther bro12.indd 2 2/13/13 9:35 AM

APPENDIX E

FLORIDA PINE SNAKE INFORMATION

Florida pine snake

Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus

(Photo by Kevin Enge, FWC)

Taxonomic Classification

Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Reptilia Order: Squamata Family: Colubridae Genus/Species: Pituophis melanoleucus Subspecies: Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus Common Name: Florida pine snake

Listing Status

Federal Status: Not Listed FL Status: State Species of Special Concern FNAI Ranks: G4T3?/S3 (Globally: Apparently Secure, Sub sp. Rare [Tentative Ranking]/State: Rare) IUCN Status: Not ranked

Physical Description

The Florida pine snake is one of the largest eastern snakes in North America (Bartlett and Bartlett 2003). This species can reach a length of up to 84 inches (213 centimeters). It has a

Florida Pine Snake 1 | Page

brown back with dark blotches, white belly, ridged scales, small head, and pointed snout (Florida Natural Areas Inventory 2001).

Life History

The diet of the Florida pine snake primarily consists of moles, rabbits, mice, rats, squirrels, lizards, and other snakes and their eggs (Ernst and Ernst 2003).

Nesting occurs from June to August, with the eggs hatching in September and October (Franz 1992). Nests are constructed in side burrows located off of the species main burrow. The female will construct the burrow alone, usually in an area that receives a lot of sunlight. The clutch size for the Florida pine snake is 4-12 eggs (Bartlett and Bartlett 2003). The incubation time for eggs ranges from 67-72 days (Franz 1992).

Habitat & Distribution

The Florida pine snake inhabits areas that feature well-drained sandy soils with a moderate to open canopy (Franz 1992, Ernst and Ernst 2003). This species can be found from southwest South Carolina, west to Mobile Bay in Alabama, south to Florida (excluding the Everglades) (Conant and Collins 1991, Ernst and Ernst 2003, Florida Natural Areas Inventory 2001).

Threats

Habitat loss has been an issue for the Florida pine snake. By 1987, 88% of scrub habitat in Florida had been lost to development (Kautz et al. 1993). Other habitat for this species includes the longleaf pine community, of which 97% has been converted to agriculture, pine plantations, and urban areas (Noss et al. 1995). Habitat loss and fragmentation is a result of commercial and residential development, silviculture (controlling the growth and quality of forests through timber management), mining, and road construction. The alteration of its fire-dependent habitat can cause less favorable living conditions for the Florida pine snake due to the encroachment of hardwoods. The removal of stumps can threaten the pine snake because it decreases the amount of underground habitat structures (Means 2005). Pine snakes might be experiencing increased rates of predation of adults, hatchlings, or eggs from nine-banded armadillos, feral hogs, and red imported fire ants (R. Zappalorti, Herpetological Associates, pers. commun. 2011). Other threats include mortality caused by roads, humans, and domesticated pets (Jordan 1998).

Florida Pine Snake 2 | Page

Conservation & Management

The Florida pine snake is protected as a State Species of Special Concern by Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species Rule.

-Biological Status Review (BSR) -Supplemental Information for the BSR