In the Crystal River, a manatee rolls over to allow a snorkeler to scratch under its flipper. In efforts to reduce such collisions, the state established boating speed zones in 1998 and signs denoting slow speed, idle speed and sanctuary zones are now posted throughout most of the county, said Steve Boutelle, natural resources manager for the county. The speed zones, however, have spurred quite a bit of legislation in Lee County. A trio of burrowing owls, each about 12 inches tall, stand on alert outside their den on Marco Island. Dozens of active burrows can be found on Marco.
Development threatens the survival of the species.
A Conservancy of Southwest Florida canoe trip around the ABC Islands near Marco Island helps resident sand visitors learn about area birds and their sanctuaries. For more information about the canoe trips, call the Conservancy at 775-8569. E-mail this story to a friend. Format this story for printing. Save at local area businesses.