The Crested Caracara (Caracara cheriway) is a Federally Threatened bird species, primarily preferring cabbage palms. These wide open areas provide the ideal conditions for nesting and foraging. Caracaras are known to build their nests in cabbage palms, occasionally nesting in oaks, pines, or nonnative palms.
The crested caracara is found throughout Central America and into Texas, but the Florida population has become isolated, exacerbating ecological challenges. In addition to habitat loss, these charismatic birds prefer carrion and are often found alongside vultures feasting and fighting over roadkill. As such, traffic collisions pose an increasing threat to caracara populations.
If your property is within the caracara’s known range, development may require a survey to determine their presence. The Caracara survey season is January 1st – April 30th. If caracaras are found on the property, mitigation measures, such as habitat preservation, may be required before development can proceed.