protect our environment. defend wildlife. stop flooding and overdevelopment
Volusia's Wildlife Deserves our Protection
Volusia County is one of the most biodiverse areas in Florida, home to threatened species like sea turtles, manatees, gopher tortoises, and scrub jays. But unchecked development is destroying the habitats these animals need to survive.
Why wildlife matters in volusia
Volusia County’s diverse ecosystems—coastlines, wetlands, pine scrub, and estuaries—are home to hundreds of native species. These animals are more than beautiful to look at—they’re vital to our way of life. Here’s why:
- They keep ecosystems in balance. Pollinators, predators, and keystone species like the gopher tortoise ensure our natural systems thrive.
- They fuel our local economy. Eco-tourism, wildlife photography, and coastal visits depend on thriving animal populations.
- They reflect the health of our land. When wildlife suffers, it’s a warning sign that something is off in our environment.
Threats to Wildlife in Volusia
Across Volusia County, wildlife is facing growing threats from unchecked development and environment
Here are some of the top threats:
- Habitat fragmentation from sprawling subdivisions and commercial projects
- Water pollution caused by stormwater runoff, fertilizers, septic systems, and construction sediment
- Light pollution along the coast, disrupting critical nesting and hatching cycles for sea turtles
- Increased vehicle traffic near conservation areas, leading to more wildlife collisions and stress
- Wetland destruction through drainage, filling, and illegal land clearing — reducing natural flood control and biodiversity
These issues aren’t isolated. They compound and accelerate wildlife loss unless we intervene early.
species under threat
Volusia County is home to unique and irreplaceable species found nowhere else in the world. Many are under threat—but with awareness and action, we can help protect them. Here are just a few that rely on us to preserve their habitats:
what protect volusia is doing
🟢 Monitoring new development proposals for red flags that threaten critical habitats
🟢 Advocating for stronger protections in zoning, land use, and environmental permitting
🟢 Educating residents on how they can be everyday stewards for the animals that call Volusia home
🟢 Supporting local conservation efforts
help with injured or displaced wildlife in Volusia
Emergency Wildlife Contacts
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
All strandings, sea turtle (sick or injured sea turtles or marine mammals), wildlife concerns and violations, nest issues (depredation, vandalism, etc.): 888-404-3922
Licensed Wildlife Rehabers
- Jason Baker: (808) 212-6100 . Types of wildlife: small mammals (gray squirrels)
- William Roddenberry: (386) 561-1406. Types of wildlife: small mammals
- Samadhi Wildlife Inc: (386) 290-3314. Types of wildlife: small and large mammals
- Allison Bernstein: (386) 304-5544. Types of wildlife: birds including birds of prey and seabirds, reptiles
- East Coast Wildlife & Exotic Center: (386) 334-2237. Types of wildlife: turtles, birds, and mammals
Marine Science Center, Ponce Inlet
- Bird Hospital: 386-304-5530 | Hours: 8am - 4pm
- Turtle Hospital: 386-304-5544 | Hours: 8am-4pm
- Emergency 24/7 Hotline (Turtles on Call) | 386-804-5587