Animals in Florida are not uncommon. The state boasts wildlife and marine environments in North America, with sandy beaches in south-central Florida leading off into one magnificent bay after another.
Underwater, there are more than 90 different coral reef habitats to explore in the Sunshine State!
The Eastern side of our state has rolling plains with herds of feral horses roaming freely alongside deer, bobcats, wild turkeys, and more; whereas those who enjoy urban life will find themselves near raccoons, possums, and snakes.
What a variety of animals and ecosystems our state has!
From panthers to manatees, you’ll find that Florida is home to many amazing species–and they all deserve your respect as well as protection for generations into the future.
Florida also boasts some of the most diverse marine environments in North America–with sandy beaches leading off into one magnificent bay after another.
Underwater, there are more than 90 different coral reef habitats to explore in the Sunshine State!
1. Wildlife in Florida
Florida is home to over 200 different types of animals.
From the red-cockaded woodpecker to the Florida panther, Florida’s wildlife population knows no bounds.
But surprisingly enough, not all Floridians are fans of our native creatures and want them removed from their homes.
Reducing populations can have negative consequences for both humans and other animal species that depend on certain plants or prey species for food or shelter.
Fortunately, there are solutions like setting up a preserve where endangered animals in Florida, live in peace without human interference- much like wild sanctuaries do so well elsewhere!
Florida has wonderful wildlife that creates beautiful natural scenery throughout the state.
2. Animals Native to Florida
The Floridian environment is home to a variety of animals that live in different habitats.
Some are indigenous, such as panthers and manatees, while others have been introduced like the alligator or python.
With Florida’s wide-ranging geography and its proximity to water sources on both coasts, it’s no surprise that these ecosystems contain so many species!
Do I have a Favorite Animal in Florida?
The Manatee!
These gentle giants are often referred to as “sea cows” and they have become one of the state’s most iconic animals.
3. Manatees in Florida
Manatees are usually found in very shallow waters and spend their days eating seagrass, which is why they have no teeth!
They can weigh up to 1500 pounds but will use echolocation to communicate with other manatees.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has put up signs warning people of alligators lurking nearby.
Three major animal sanctuaries are located right here in South Florida: Miami MetroZoo, Palm Beach Zoo, and Jungle Island It’s great to see these animals get a second chance at life!
It’s amazing how many different types of habitats we find on the Eastern side of our state from rolling plains with herds of feral horses roaming freely alongside deer, bobcats, wild turkeys, and more; those who enjoy urban life will find themselves near raccoons, possums, and snakes.
What a variety of animals and ecosystems our state has!
From panthers to manatees, you’ll find that Florida is home to many amazing species–and they all deserve your respect as well as protection for generations into the future.
The Floridian environment is Home to a Variety of Animals that Live in Different Habitats.
Some are indigenous such as panthers and manatees while others have been introduced like the alligator or python with Florida’s wide-ranging geography close proximity to water sources on both coasts.
There is no surprise this ecosystem contains so many types its Eastern side along a rolling plain cattle stray freely alongside deer bobcats wild turkey raccoon possum snakes this state boasts some of the most diverse marine environments and sandy beaches leading off into one magnificent bay.
Florida has a lot to offer for visitors and residents alike!
The Everglades National Park in southern Florida provides an excellent opportunity to see alligators as well as other reptiles like American crocodiles and various turtles.
The park is also home to “some” dangerous animals and more than 300 species of birds including eagles, hawks vultures and egrets so birdwatchers will be delighted by what they can view while exploring this unique habitat.
4. Panthers in Florida
Panthers are Florida’s state animal.
These large cats live in all of the southeastern United States!
They’re most commonly found in dense forests and swamps but you may see them on a sunny day relaxing under trees or crawling over fallen logs (never forgetting to do some stretches).
It is estimated that there are as few as a thousand panthers left living today; their numbers have declined by about 97% since the first settlers came to America – this makes it one of the rarest animals in North America.
Florida panthers eat squirrels, rabbits, deer, and small mammals like opossums and raccoons; they’ll also eat feral pigs occasionally if given the opportunity…and sometimes even cattle!
“Are Florida Panthers dangerous animals?”
Well, the answer might surprise you…
While they can be a nuisance, especially when looking for their young kittens, panthers are generally not considered to be dangerous.
5. American Alligator
Alligators in Florida are a common sight and can be considered one of the most dangerous animals in Florida.
They’re not shy and they live right by the water, so you can probably find them wading around the swamps on any given day.
But what about at night?
Alligators do have to sleep sometimes, don’t they?
It turns out that alligator mothers will coil up with their babies on a log or floating platform and then use their bodies as a pillow, which is what keeps the babies from drowning.
If you’ve seen any of those nature films about alligators in Florida where they’re shown sleeping during the day but are active at night, it’s not because they have insomnia: that’s how mother gators take care of their young.
If you’ve seen any of those nature films about the American Alligator in Florida where they’re shown sleeping during the day but are active at night, it’s not because they have insomnia: that’s how mother gators take care of their young.
The Everglades National Park in southern Florida provides an excellent opportunity to see alligators as well as other reptiles like American crocodiles and various turtles.
The park is also home to more than 300 species of birds including eagles, hawks vultures, and egrets so birdwatchers will be delighted by what they can view while exploring this unique habitat.
In the summer months, many migratory songbirds reside here because there are plenty of trees for nesting purposes.
In the winter, you may spot bald eagles soaring over a body of water or along with one of the levees that cross through these wetlands which make up about 15% of Florida’s landmass!
There are 400 miles worth of hiking trails throughout the national park for visitors to explore as they please.
The trails lead all around the park’s wetlands and mangrove forests which provide excellent bird-watching opportunities.
Although most of Florida is not home to it wouldn’t hurt to bring along some extra provisions like bear spray or peppermint oil for protection.
You may also need mosquito repellent because mosquitos are abundant here due to the high humidity levels found throughout the Everglades National Park.
Animals in this national park can be considered one of those places where you might want to keep an eye on your belongings or stay in a group when hiking alone!
6. Snakes in Florida
Snakes also love living in Florida, but not every snake is welcome.
The king cobra was found in the Everglades last year and had to be captured!
It’s important for Floridians to know that snakes are around when they’re playing outside so they can see them before stepping on one by accident.
You don’t want a stray snakebite – especially from an angry King Cobra!
Every day, lots of people come into contact with venomous snakes during their daily activities such as gardening or working outdoors.
So it’s important for Floridians to know that there are poisonous creatures out here who need co-existence space too.
Venomous snakes bite and eat non-venomous species which helps keep down populations of prey.
A lot of other Floridians think that it is important that we show respect for snakes and other reptiles.
For example, there are some people in Florida who believe that if you kill a snake, the spirit will come back to haunt your family with bad luck or even death! So be careful out there when playing outdoors—you never know what kind of snake might strike next!
Snakes also love living in Florida; however not every snake is welcome here. The King Cobra was found last year in the Everglades and had to be captured because they aren’t common sightings around here yet but still live nearby where Floridians play outside often.
7. Key Deer in Florida
Key deer are native to the Florida Keys.
They live in a very small area, about 100 square miles, and their population is estimated at fewer than 3000 individuals.
The unique thing about key deer is that they eat only one type of plant: a ground vine called “screwbean”.
It’s no wonder then that some people call them “the world’s smallest grazers.”
They’re also known for their oddly-shaped horns which can grow as long as two feet or more!
You may have seen images of these critters on postcards throughout your travels here because Key Deers were designated as endangered back in 1967 (then downgraded to threatened status in 1978).
As such, there are laws protecting them from hunters – although it has been noted that their numbers are declining and they may lose their status as threatened if the trend continues.
8. Bottlenose Dolphins
Bottlenose dolphins live in all of Florida’s waterways, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf and even into inland canals.
They’re both playful creatures and predators of any size; there are many stories about them herding fish towards shore with a fantastic show of acrobatics that is called “strand feeding”.
Sadly, these mammals have been known to be taken by fishermen as food – or sometimes they’ve become entangled in fishing nets where their wounds will cause death through infection.
You’ll want to make sure you stay clear from this type of activity if you come across it on your travels because bottlenose dolphin populations aren’t doing well!
9. Florida is famous for its birds!
There are about 850 different species of them that live in the various ecosystems throughout Florida.
Their numbers vary from year to year and you can find many types that exist just on one beach or a single forest – but they all share something in common: we love seeing these animals around because they’re incredibly beautiful, entertaining, and educational too!
Many people don’t realize this but birding has become such a popular hobby here; it’s now an official form of tourism called “avian ecotourism.”
If you want to enjoy nature and see what Florida state has to offer while also being able to come back with some fantastic photos (and memories), make sure you go out there and be part of the experience yourself.
10. Florida Black Bear
Although Florida has more black bears than any other state in America, you’re probably not going to see one roaming around on the street.
Black bears are very shy animals and will generally only come out of their dens during mating season or when they’ve got a cub with them.
They might also emerge from hiding if there’s an easy meal nearby, but that usually doesn’t happen very often.
Black bears are solitary creatures, which means they don’t like to hang around in groups of more than one or two other animals for too long at a time.
They’re also not big on socializing with people and will actively avoid us if possible.
If you do come across a black bear during mating season, it’s important to keep your distance as these males can be really aggressive when they’re trying to mate with females because this is the only way they’ll ever have any cubs again!
If you see them when they’re just sitting there minding their own business then we strongly recommend that you give them plenty of space – about 50 yards away should provide enough room.
If you do come across a black bear during mating season, give these males plenty of space and report any injured animals at once to authorities so they’ll get proper care from experts.”
11. Animals in State Parks in Florida
Many Florida State Parks include natural springs and man-made lakes with boat ramps for visitors that want to try their hand at fishing or just go kayaking on the water!
The plants are also really impressive because they’ve got so many different types from all over the world.
There are more than 800 species in total living in these parks, which makes it easy for nature lovers who love exploring new places like this one.
There are things you can do here year-round – not just during springtime when everyone thinks about going there!
You can hike through the trails, admire the wildlife up close (from afar), and even take a boat tour of the springs.
The park’s got all sorts of animals, from wild boars to otters to deer! The only thing that isn’t here is bears–they’re not allowed at this particular location because they could destroy everything in their path if they were present.
And there are plenty more creatures living on these grounds, so you never know what might show up as soon as you set foot inside the gates.
So come to Florida and see for yourself!
Any of our State Parks are worth exploring before it disappears forever into history books or nature documentaries about extinct species!
12. Endangered Species in Florida
The Sunshine State houses many endangered species. The Florida panther, West Indian manatee, and American crocodile are all animal populations of concern in the state due to dwindling numbers that can no longer sustain them.
If you’re interested in helping these animals survive we recommend educating yourself about their habitats, staying away from them when possible (especially during mating season!), reporting any injured wildlife for proper care, or donating money or time to help support conservation projects!
Remember, always stay at least 100 yards away from them so their space isn’t invaded too much–and this includes boats traveling through waterways with manatee populations!
13. Fish in Florida
There are tons of fish in Florida!
The states got plenty of different species like snook, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, and spotted gar.
There are even some invasive fish that have been introduced there by people which can sometimes cause problems for the native populations–like lionfish which eat too many smaller invertebrates and compete with other reef inhabitants.
Lionfish were first brought to Florida accidentally from a home aquarium but they’ve since spread all over the coastline because no one was really paying attention to them as an invasive species until it was too late.
Look out for these guys when you head on your next fishing expedition – if someone catches one we recommend cooking or freezing it so they don’t end up spreading any disease around our ecosystem. They should also take some pictures and send them to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission since they want people to report sightings of these particular fish.
There’s no need for you to be scared though!
Even if you do a little research beforehand it’ll make your fishing experience much more enjoyable because knowing what types are common in this area will help prepare you before venturing out onto any boats or into different bodies of water that might have wildlife living in them.
You could even try going kayaking on one of our man-made lakes with boat ramps if you’re not up for heading too far off the coast.
Fishing is always popular activity down here – but only after we learn how to keep invasive species like lionfish from destroying our ecosystems!
Illegal, Unethical Animal Trade in Florida – Facts
Animals are being traded illegally and exploited for their parts all over the world.
This is a global problem that has been going on for centuries, but we’re finally starting to take notice thanks to events like Cecil The Lion’s death.
We’ve got facts about animal trafficking here in The Sunshine State so you can better understand what it entails–and how you can help stop this crime from ever happening again by refusing to participate or buy any products made with wildlife.
The Illegal Wildlife trade involves animals who have been captured either deliberately as part of an organized effort (like poaching), or accidentally (such as fishing).
Looking for Hotels near Animal Sanctuaries?
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala
14.4 miles from Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary
Holiday Inn Express Hotel Ocala Silver Springs allows two pets of up to 50 pounds. An additional $25 per night is charged for each pet. Pets are welcome, but they must be kept in a crate if left unattended.
The property has a grassy area for pets.
There are 55 rooms for queens and 20 suites. On request, you can have your own Jacuzzi suite with separate walk in showers. There are also meeting and business services available. A heated pool, a fitness room, as well as guest laundry are all available at the hotel. All guests have access to high-speed Internet and free local calls.
There is also a breakfast bar with Express brand Cinnamon Rolls, in-room coffee and Simply Smart Bedding Collection. There is a heated swimming pool and a fitness center, as well as a business center that offers full-service services.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Holiday Tarpon Springs
This hotel is located on Highway 19 and is only 2.9 miles from Tarpon Springs Aquarium and Animal Sanctuary.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Holiday Tarpon Springs guests can enjoy a daily buffet breakfast and an outdoor pool. Fairfield Inn & Suites Holiday Tarpon Springs rooms include a flat-screen cable TV with a work desk and a work desk.
Some rooms have a small fridge and microwave. Fairfield Inn has a fitness center and a business center that are open 24 hours a day. Parking and Wi-Fi are available at no additional cost. Tarpon Springs Aquarium is 10 minutes away from the hotel.
Tarpon Springs Golf Course is also within 10 minutes.
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Jupiter
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Jupiter is located in Jupiter. It is a 2-minute drive away from Busch Wildlife Sanctuary at Loxahatchee River District, and 7 minutes from Riverbend Park.
The hotel is located 6.1 miles (9.9km) from Roger Dean Stadium.
You can enjoy a variety of recreational amenities such as an outdoor pool, a spa tub and a gym. You can also enjoy complimentary wireless Internet access and a TV in the common area.
Also, guests at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Jupiter can grab a snack from the nearby grocery/convenience shop. Every morning, a complimentary buffet breakfast is offered.
You can park your car free of charge at the hotel. Make yourself at home in one 110-square-foot guestroom with flat-screen TVs and refrigerators. You can also enjoy cable programming and complimentary wireless Internet access.
Fun Animal Facts in the Great State of Florida!
The Sunshine State” is a great place because we are so lucky enough to live here, but many people do not understand what they are missing out on when they stay away!
Our goal is always to provide quality content bout our state that we’re proud to be a part of!
