Amazing Wildlife to Explore in Florida

Florida is a unique and beautiful state, full of natural wonders, hidden gems, and amazing wildlife. From the swamps of the Everglades to the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys, there is something for everyone to explore. 

While many people think of Florida as a place of beaches and wild parties, it is actually an incredibly biodiverse place, with some of the most important ecosystems and rarest wildlife in the entire country, and a paradise for animal lovers. So if you are planning to board a cruise leaving from Florida and want to add a little nature-watching onto your itinerary, here is a closer look at some of the most incredible wildlife experiences that Florida has to offer.

Everglades National Park

The Everglades National Park is one of the most famous natural areas in the United States, and for good reason. This vast wetland is unique, a floating mass of grass, forest, and mangrove swamps, home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, panthers, and manatees. One of the best ways to experience the Everglades is by taking an airboat tour deep into the heart of the swamp, where you can witness the beauty and complexity of this unique ecosystem up close.

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, consider hiking one of the many trails that wind through the Everglades. These trails will take you through a variety of habitats, from sawgrass prairies to cypress swamps, allowing you to see a wide range of wildlife in their natural habitats. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and insect repellent!

No visit to the Everglades would be complete without taking a night tour. These tours will take you into the swamp after dark, where you can witness the nocturnal activities of the park’s wildlife. From the calls of the barred owls to the glowing eyes of alligators, a night tour of the Everglades is an unforgettable experience.

Manatees in Crystal River

The Florida panther might be the state animal, but no creature captures the imagination and conjures up Sunshine State vibes more than the manatee. Florida is one of the best places in the world to see these wonderful mammals and the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is home to one of the largest populations of manatees in the United States. These gentle giants can be seen throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the winter months when the water temperature in the Gulf of Mexico drops and manatees flock to the warm springs of Crystal River.

One of the best ways to see manatees in Crystal River is by taking a guided snorkeling tour. These tours will take you into the manatees’ natural habitat, allowing you to swim with these incredible animals in an ethical and responsible way. Just be sure to follow the guidelines set forth by the refuge to ensure that you are not disturbing the manatees in any way.

If snorkeling isn’t your thing, you can still see manatees up close by taking a kayak or paddleboard tour. These tours will take you through the mangrove-lined waterways of Crystal River, allowing you to see manatees and other wildlife from a safe distance.

Loggerhead Sea Turtles in Juno Beach

Juno Beach is home to one of the most important sea turtle nesting sites in the world. Each year, from March to October, loggerhead sea turtles return to the beach to lay their eggs. Visitors to Juno Beach can witness this incredible spectacle by taking a guided turtle walk.

During a turtle walk, visitors are led by a trained guide to the nesting sites, where they can watch as the turtles lay their eggs or hatchlings make their way to the sea. It’s important to remember that sea turtles are a protected species, and disturbing them in any way is strictly prohibited. That’s why it’s essential to take a guided tour, so you can witness this incredible event without disturbing the turtles in any way.

If you can’t make it to Juno Beach during nesting season, you can still learn about these amazing creatures by visiting the Loggerhead Marinelife Center. This non-profit organization is dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles and other marine life and offers visitors a chance to see rescued sea turtles up close and personal.

Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. This barrier island is home to a variety of habitats, including beaches, mangrove swamps, and freshwater wetlands, which support a diverse array of wildlife. It is also one of the best shelling destinations in the entire country!

One of the best ways to experience the wildlife of Sanibel Island is by visiting the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge offers visitors a chance to see a wide variety of birds, from ospreys and pelicans to roseate spoonbills and wood storks. Visitors can also take a tram tour or rent a bike to explore the refuge’s many trails.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is one of the largest marine protected areas in the world, encompassing over 2,900 square nautical miles of coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and mangrove swamps.

It is one of the most exciting places in the US to go snorkeling or scuba diving, as this lets you get up close to some of the most beautiful and biodiverse areas of the sanctuary, allowing you to see colorful fish, vibrant coral, and even shipwrecks up close.

If you prefer to stay above water, consider taking a kayaking or paddle boarding tour through the mangrove swamps of the Keys. These tours offer a unique perspective on the sanctuary’s unique ecosystem and allow you to see wildlife up close and personal.

Florida is a state full of natural wonders and amazing wildlife. From the swamps of the Everglades to the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys, there is something for everyone to explore. Whether you’re a bird watcher, a beach lover, or an adrenaline junkie, there is an incredible wildlife experience waiting for you in Florida.

Feature Photo by sterlinglanier Lanier on Unsplash