Don’t Overlook the Burrowing Owl Festival!
Feb 09, 2026 11:40AM ● By Ann Marie O’Phelan
Besides the miles of canals, Cape Coral is also known for having the largest population of burrowing owls in the state, with over 1,000 nesting pairs. During the evening hours, we often spot them atop mailboxes, on fence posts, or on white T-perches. They weigh only 5-8.5 ounces and stand only 7.5-11 inches tall, and so they are one of the smallest owl species on the planet; however, they make whoots, whistles, and coos to seem more impressive in size. It’s hard not to love them!
Burrowing owl lovers should check out the 24th Annual Burrowing Owl Festival/ Wildlife & Environmental Expo that takes place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, 10 am to 4 pm, at Rotary Park in Cape Coral. The festival was created to educate people about burrowing owls, wildlife, and environmental topics, and is perfect for wildlife lovers of all ages.
“The event includes live animals from Adam’s Animal Encounters, local wildlife bus tours, photography tours, butterfly house tours, guest speakers, a silent auction, educational activities, kids’ activities, food and beverages, and more,” says Janet Windisch, Corresponding Secretary, Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife (CCFW). Find out more online at Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife.
“This year, we have several new exhibitors, including Iguanaland and the Cape Coral Fire and Police Departments, who will showcase home and family safety, along with a few new vendors,” adds Windisch.
The 24th Annual Burrowing Owl Festival /Wildlife & Environmental Expo, Saturday, February 28, 2025, 10 am to 4 pm, Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Road, Cape Coral, ccfriendsofwildlife.org. $5 suggested donation for ages 12+. There is limited parking at Rotary Park. Overflow parking is available.
For those who can’t make the festival, but love nature and the Great Outdoors, the 96-acre Rotary Park Environmental Center offers many ways to connect. It’s on the Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail, so often a variety of wading and migratory birds can be sighted along the nature trails and walking paths. Families will enjoy the children’s playground, and fitness lovers will enjoy the outdoor fitness stations. The Butterfly Garden offers limited capacity one-hour free tours on Monday, Friday, and Saturday starting at 10:30 am—thanks to the Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife. Inside the center, there’s a small selection of aquariums with reptiles and fish. It's a great way to enjoy nature during the cooler months.
Ann Marie O’Phelan is a SW Florida resident and a regular contributor to TOTI Media.
