What could manatees, American white pelicans, and loggerhead sea turtles all have in common? At first glance, these animals don’t seem to have many similarities at all. One lays its eggs on the beach, one swims in the water, and one flies in the air. As it turns out, that these animals have much more in common than it seems!
They Love The Water
This is the obvious one. Manatees and loggerheads live their lives in the water. In fact, the turtles don’t really leave the water except to lay their eggs. Did you know that turtles return each year to the same beach where they were born to lay their eggs? American white pelicans stick close to brackish water, a mix of fresh and salt water. Places like red mangroves and rivers are popular for them. To catch their meals, they can be seen corralling fish into an area and then plunging their bucket-like bills into the water. The closer that you are to the water, the more likely that you’re able to spot these animals!
They’re Protected
While loggerhead sea turtles, American white pelicans, and manatees are considered beautiful and important parts of Florida’s ecosystem, they’re also ecologically sensitive. Because of this, lawmakers and residents have worked so that certain protections ensure the safety of these animals. At Orchid Island, this can include everything from setting up special lights on the Beach Club so that baby sea turtles can’t see them to let scientists and conservationists know when a rare species has taken up residence in Orchid Island, like the pelicans. This way, we can ensure that these animals come to stay with us for a long time.
They Live at Orchid Island
Orchid Island is designated as a Certified Cooperative Audubon Sanctuary. That means that the staff and residents of the Club work to preserve the natural environment. Because of that, usually rare animals such as American white pelicans are known to migrate here. They are often seen flying over the golf courses from November through March. Manatees float placidly down the river around this area. They’re drawn to the naturally warm waters. Our beaches are some of the best and most popular nesting grounds for the loggerhead sea turtles. During peak season, their nests are marked off to protect the eggs from beachgoers. Next time that you pay a visit to Orchid Island, keep a close lookout-you may never know what you might see!
For those who want to get close to nature and enjoy the creature comforts of home, the Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club amenities are second to none. Orchid Island works hard to preserve a way of life for, not only the natural neighbors who live on the Treasure Coast, but the residents as well. Members and residents also enjoy the one-mile of private beach access and what’s even better, Orchid Island spans from the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian River.
This private community is committed to providing a level of service that stands out from the rest. Golfing here is unparalleled, as the Arnold Palmer designed, 18-hole course is not only renowned among courses, but also holds an Audubon Certified Sanctuary status for its commitment to natural preservation.
Love the Vero Beach location? Request the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine here to learn more about the Vero Beach area and how nature coexists with the residents.
If you’re in the area, stop by the Orchid Island Sales Center and see the community’s beauty for yourself. Call 772. 388.3888 for more information or visit OrchidIslandFL.com.
Luxury residential properties range from the $800s to over $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottage, or oceanfront condominiums.
