Golf courses not only have a positive impact on the people who golf there, but they can also have a positive impact on wildlife in the area. All golf courses have a minimum of 25%-40% of non-playable areas that have remained as the natural landscape. Over the years, golf courses have become more and more environmentally aware and aim to preserve the surrounding natural environment and wildlife. Now, university studies sponsored by the United States Golf Association (USGA) show that most golf courses are made up of 70% non-playable areas.

Many golf courses preserve natural areas in urban environments on land that would most likely otherwise be used for more urban development. For these reasons, golf courses become home to an abundance of wildlife. In fact, in many cases, golf courses provide needed wildlife sanctuaries. Wildlife does not usually get in the way of the game and most golfers don’t mind sharing their courses with them.

At Bonita Bay Club we enjoy sharing the courses with wildlife and know the members look forward to seeing wildlife on and around the courses. It is not uncommon at Bonita Bay Club to see bobcats, alligators, deer and a large variety of birds including eagles, herons, ducks, woodpeckers, roseate spoonbills, pelicans, and many more. On occasions, you will also see raccoons and iguanas just to name a few. Next time you are out on the course, keep an eye out for the wildlife!

📷 Darla Highley

📷 David Andersen

📷 Captured by: Pam and Mike Zbierajewski

📷 Maryle Barbé