Floridians Call for Protection of Endangered Species

Floridians Call for Protection of Endangered Species

According to a new survey from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Floridians want to protect endangered species even if it means putting restrictions on their personal freedoms or being fined for violations. The respondents in the study support legal protection for endangered species of all kinds.

Because of its climate and topography, Florida is home to 47 species of endangered animals including the infamous Florida panther and the West Indian manatee, not to mention the 44 threatened plant species such as the Key tree-cactus and the pondberry.

The study also further reveals that 55% of the respondents were willing to avoid harmful activities such as not releasing pets into the wild or taking care not to degrade endangered species’ habitat. 23% of the respondents also engage in environmental civic groups.

Other facts which have been revealed by the study are:

• 66% of the respondents believe the Endangered Species Act should be strengthened.
• 78% agreed that the lands should be developed to protect endangered species.
• 85% revealed they’re likely to pay attention to news stories dealing with issues related to endangered species.

Jack Payne, University of Florida’s senior vice president for agriculture and natural sciences, says “Florida is home to so many unique species of plants and animals, and it is incumbent upon us to do everything we can to protect them.”

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