Wildlife Through the Year: October

• Warbler migration peaks early this month.
• Monarch butterfly migration nears its peak along Florida's Gulf coast.
• Turkey vultures return mid-month to Miami courthouse and other areas in south Florida.
• Peak in chimney swift migrations in South Florida.
• Black bears are on the move, gathering food. If you live in bear country, drive slow and be sure your garbage cans are bear-proofed.
• Gray foxes begin mating this month.
• Northeast Florida: Look for migrating Peregrine falcons in natural areas, especially along the coast as they follow shorebird prey.
• Deer mating season begins in northeast and central Florida.
• Flying squirrels will be raising their second litters and moving into pecan groves as the nuts ripen.
• Flatwoods salamanders breed with the first heavy rains of October.
• Lights Out! Sea turtles emerge from their nests and head for the ocean.