You wouldn't think a little guy like this could be worth $788,000., but the City of Cape Coral, and many other surrounding cities are paying this and more for the protection of the Scrub Jay!
The City of Cape Coral voted to spend $788,000. of General Fund dollars to protect the Scrub Jay. Named Scrub-Jay because they live only in the scrub and scrubby flatwoods habitats of Florida. These birds are listed as a "Threatened" species on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife's federal list. Florida Scrub Jays look similar to other jays but they do not have a crest, white-tipped wings or tail feathers, or black barring.
The $788,000. will be paid over a four-year period beginning in 2014. The largest portion $465,000 will be used to enhance the habitat on existing county Conservation 20/20 land to make it acceptable for Scrub Jays. The rest will be used for maintaining the habitat to keep the Scrub Jay happy and secure.
Believe it or not, this was the most economical way to meet the needs of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife. The City will address all current and future Scrub Jay issues as well.
In this economy it's hard to justify so much money for a couple sightings. It's estimated that there are a total of 2 families of Scrub Jays in the City of Cape Coral.
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