Wildlife hero will be missed
To the editor:
Cape Coral lost a true hero last month. Beverly Saltonstall, a founding member of Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife and author of “Cape Coral Burrowing Owls Don’t Hoot,” passed away at the age of 86.
When Beverly relocated to Cape Coral from New Jersey, she became fascinated by the adorable burrowing owls she saw around her neighborhood. At the time, burrows were not routinely marked, and there were few conservation efforts focused on protecting these remarkable birds. Beverly quickly joined a small group of concerned Cape Coral residents, and Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife was born.
For years, Beverly served as CCFW’s Education Outreach chair, visiting countless schools, scout troops, resident groups, and community organizations to teach people about burrowing owls and the importance of protecting our local wildlife. She also provided tours for residents and visitors, sharing her knowledge and helping others appreciate the owls living in our neighborhoods.
Beverly’s tireless dedication, enthusiasm, and love of wildlife set an example for us all. She touched the lives of thousands of people, inspiring them to appreciate and protect the burrowing owls and other wildlife that make Cape Coral special.
In September 2025, The Breeze published a wonderful feature about Beverly, highlighting her lifelong dedication to Cape Coral’s wildlife and her work protecting the community’s beloved burrowing owls. capecoralbreeze.com/lifestyles/local-lifestyles/2025/09/17/beverly-saltonstall-defender-of-wildlife/
CCFW will sorely miss Beverly’s enthusiasm, sense of humor, and dedication. We are deeply grateful for the lasting impact she made on our community and on the effort to preserve Cape Coral’s wildlife and natural habitats.
We extend our sincerest condolences to Beverly’s family and loved ones.
A celebration of Beverly’s life will be held at Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Road, Cape Coral, on Saturday Nov. 7 from 1-4 p.m. Her family requests that guests bring an appetizer to share, something Beverly always enjoyed.
Beverly leaves behind a remarkable legacy. Her love for Cape Coral’s wildlife will continue through the people she inspired and the owls she worked so tirelessly to protect.
Janet Windisch, Corresponding Secretary,
Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife