14 Endangered Species Protected by Law in Residential Areas

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While it’s common to see a squirrel running across a fence or a bird sitting on a mailbox, some creatures found in residential areas are much rarer — and so very in need of protection. As urban areas continue to grow, these animals are left to hang on to the edges of human dominated spaces. Fortunately, federal and state laws stepped in to help give these species a fighting chance.

These are not just wildlife laws, they are laws that reflect our commitment to biodiversity in a world that’s becoming more concrete and steel. Let’s take a look at some of these endangered species and why we protect them right in the place we call home.

Red-Cockaded Woodpecker

While this small woodpecker might not seem very extraordinary when you first glance at it, their effect on the ecosystem is irrefutable. The red cockaded woodpecker is found in the southeastern United States in longleaf pine trees, which are rapidly disappearing. Homeowners and developers are required by law to leave these woodpeckers’ nests as they are, so that they can survive. According to Science.gov, protecting the red cockaded woodpecker protects an entire ecosystem, one that many species depend on.

California Tiger Salamander

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This elusive amphibian lives beneath the soil in residential areas of California and has suffered massive habitat loss because of urban sprawl. Disturbing it underground is off limits, legally. Native plants in residential gardens are important refuge for these salamanders, highlighting the role everyday homeowners need to play in conservation.

Indiana Bat

Creatures You Are Legally Forbidden To Remove From Your Home And Garden — Image Credit: Pixabay

Often these tiny insecteating bats roost in trees near suburban homes. Their roosting sites are protected by federal law, especially during breeding season when disturbances threaten their survival. If you’ve ever been fortunate enough to have fewer mosquitoes in your backyard, you can thank this bat for it; they consume thousands of insects per night.

Gopher Tortoise

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Gopher tortoises are protected in Florida and much of the Southeast, as their burrows are home to over 350 other species. By law, you can’t move or harm these slow moving reptiles. As a result, their legal safeguards reflect how important they are to maintaining biodiversity in these regions.

Eastern Indigo Snake

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This sleek, non-venomous snake, is an important predator in Southeastern United States ecosystems. They are protected under federal law and cannot be captured or harmed, and you may often find them slithering on the suburban edge. Although they are imposing in size, they cause no threat to humans, and help control populations of smaller, potentially harmful animals.

Karner Blue Butterfly

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One of our endangered species is the Karner blue butterfly, and if you see a splash of blue in the garden, it might be one of them; they’re reliant on wild lupine plants. In fact, these butterflies have adapted perfectly to open spaces, and residential lawns are a surprising safe haven if native flowers are planted. Experts advise not to mow during their breeding season in order to avoid accidentally harming them.

Hawaiian Goose

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This goose is known locally as the Nēnē, and is the state bird of Hawaii, often wandering into its residential areas. Thanks to legal protection and community efforts, it’s now recovering from the brink of extinction. In Hawaiian culture, it is a good omen to spot one near your home.

Spotted Owl

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The spotted owl prefers old-growth forests in the Pacific Northwest but there have been sightings near residential developments. Their habitats are protected by law and often local communities are encouraged not to produce noise or light pollution near nesting areas so these nocturnal birds can thrive.

Desert Tortoise

This slow moving icon can be found in the deserts of Nevada, Utah and California. The law prohibits you from relocating or disturbing them if you live in areas where they are protected. For millions of years, they have adapted to desert life but they are challenged by human encroachment.

Key Deer

There’s a miniature deer species found exclusively in the Florida Keys, and they sometimes wander into backyards to entertain residents. Their numbers have shrunk, and they now enjoy strict protections. Vehicle collisions are a major threat to these animals; motorists in the Keys are asked to exercise care when driving.

Bald Eagle

According to the U.S Fish and Wildlife Services, bald eagles are no longer endangered, but are protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. These birds have made a majestic recovery and are now nesting near lakes and rivers near many residential communities. These returns are often heralded as the fruits of conservation labours.

Florida Panther

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The elusive Florida panther often wanders near rural and suburban areas to hunt for food and mates. With fewer than 200 left in the wild, seeing one is a big deal. Even if they move close to homes, it’s illegal to harm or harass these big cats.

American Crocodile

While its aggressive cousin, the alligator, is spotted far and wide, the American crocodile is shy and often seen in residential areas of South Florida. Habitat loss protects them and residents are encouraged to enjoy these creatures but at a safe distance.

Monarch Butterfly

Stunning Animals That Redefine Beauty in Nature! — Image Credit: Rhododendrites/Wikimedia Commons

Even if you don’t think of butterflies as endangered, the monarch’s migration is threatened. As a result, steep population declines have occurred because they are dependent on milkweed—a plant that often is destroyed in urban landscaping. Residents are encouraged to plant milkweed and create butterfly friendly gardens by federal and state initiatives as they help in pollination and pest control.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.