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One of the most captivating aspects of our visit to Florida is the opportunity to witness its abundant and diverse wildlife. From the graceful glide of manatees and playful dolphins to elusive panthers and colorful birds, the Sunshine State is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Here are some of the best ways to experience animal encounters in Florida:
1. Manatee Viewing:
Manatees, known as “gentle giants” of the sea, symbolize Florida’s coastal habitats. During the winter months, warm spring water attracts manatees. This is a unique opportunity for snorkeling or kayaking alongside these gentle giants.
Manatees follow the warmth, so during the warmer months, they are more likely to be in the warmer ocean.
It’s important to remember that manatees are a protected species. They are facing challenges due to human activities. Respect for these gentle giants is paramount, and strict guidelines are in place to ensure their safety and well-being. While observing them in their natural habitat, please maintain a respectful distance and refrain from touching them.
Our exploration led us to unexpected encounters with these fascinating creatures in Florida. In the canals between the homes of Crystal River and the serene Tarpon Bayou of Tarpon Springs, manatees gathered in awe-inspiring numbers. It’s a reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and the preservation of natural habitats.
Regulations are in place in these areas to safeguard the well-being of manatees and ensure these protected species are safe. Restrictions are in place prohibiting boats from entering the water during the winter months. So, if you are interested in observing manatees for free, you can ask the locals.
For a more convenient experience, you can visit designated manatee viewing areas. These include Blue Spring State Park, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, and Manatee Lagoon in West Palm Beach.
2. Dolphin Watching:
Florida’s coastal waters host a thriving population of dolphins. They are known for their playful behavior and acrobatic displays. You can go on dolphin-watching cruises or join eco-tours along the state’s Gulf and Atlantic coastlines to observe these intelligent marine mammals in their natural habitat. Some popular dolphin-watching destinations are Sarasota Bay, Clearwater Beach, and the Florida Keys.
Our own dolphin-watching adventures took us to various locations across Florida’s coastal regions. From the calm waters near barrier islands on the Gulf coast to the shallow Indian River, we encountered these intelligent beings in their diverse habitats.
Interestingly, the dolphins living in the Indian River are distinct. They are smaller in size, and there’s speculation that they may one day evolve into their own species. Despite occasionally venturing into the open ocean, these dolphins unfailingly return to the Indian River. This area serves as their sheltered refuge within the vast ocean.
3. Birdwatching:
With its diverse habitats and migration routes, Florida is a paradise for birdwatchers. There are over 500 bird species, including rare and endangered species like the Florida scrub-jay and roseate spoonbill. Explore birding hotspots such as Everglades National Park, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary to spot a variety of shorebirds, wading birds, raptors, and songbirds in their native habitats.
During our Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge kayak tour with A Day Away Tours, we were fortunate to spot some remarkable avian species. Among them was the elusive roseate spoonbill, known for its striking pink plumage. We also encountered four famous pink flamingos. They are famous among birdwatchers due to their presence in Florida. They were blown to Florida from the south by hurricanes. This added a touch of unexpected charm to our birdwatching adventure. Additionally, we marveled at migrating giant white pelicans, who journey from North Carolina to Florida during the colder months, their majestic presence highlighting the diverse birdlife in Florida.
4. Alligator Spotting:
No trip to Florida is complete without encountering its most iconic reptile: the American alligator. These prehistoric predators live in freshwater habitats throughout the state, from swamps and marshes to lakes and rivers. Note that on hot summer days, they may hide underwater to stay cool. However, in winter, they are less active but tend to sunbathe out of the water for warmth. As temperatures rise, alligators become more active, making hot spring days ideal to observe them. If you want to see 40+ alligators on any tour, make sure to visit on those hot spring days. You can read more about fascinating facts about alligators and swamps here.
Take a tour through the Everglades or explore wildlife refuges like Big Cypress National Preserve for a chance to see alligators up close.
Personal Alligator Encounters
During our various hikes, we regularly encountered alligators. On a short trek in Key West, we spotted a key deer and witnessed two alligators lying peacefully next to each other below a bridge.
However, it was during our 5-mile expedition at CREW Bird Rookery Swamp Trail in Naples that we truly got up close and personal with these ancient reptiles. We encountered an array of them, from tiny babies to a colossal creature stretching over 13 feet.
Walking mere feet away from the massive alligator on the trail, we cautiously and quietly passed with fear. With our eyes fixed on the magnificent beast, we were astonished by the fact that these popular trails are open and unfenced. At the same time, this reassured us that it is safe to walk by these amazing animals.
With the prospect of encountering the same formidable gator on our return journey, my husband and I shared lighthearted banter about the possibility of staying out there for good.
However, after talking to the locals and park rangers, it was reassured to us that although alligators are ubiquitous, these ancient creatures generally prefer to steer clear of humans, especially in winter when they seek solace in the sun’s warmth and conserve energy in the cold with little movement.
Reflecting on our timing, I couldn’t help but feel fortunate to have witnessed these majestic creatures in such tranquil states. However, the thought of possibly encountering over 40 active alligators during spring hikes gave me pause. Perhaps, I mused, I’m not quite ready for such an adrenaline-fueled adventure… not just yet, anyway!
5. Florida Panthers:
Venture into the heart of the Florida wilderness, and you might just catch a glimpse of the elusive Florida panther. These majestic big cats, a subspecies of the cougar, roam the dense forests and swamps of South Florida. With their sleek, tawny coats and piercing yellow eyes, Florida panthers are an iconic symbol of the state’s untamed wilderness. Although sightings are rare, they can sometimes be spotted in areas like Big Cypress National Preserve, Everglades National Park, and the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these endangered animals and ensure their survival in their native habitat.
6. Imported Bisons:
While bisons may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Florida wildlife, the state is home to a small population of these iconic animals. Originally introduced to Florida in the early 16th century by Spanish explorers, bisons have since adapted to the state’s subtropical climate and can be found in select areas across Central and North Florida. Look for them grazing in open pastures and prairies. These include regions like Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, and Lake Kissimmee State Park.
7. Sea Turtle Nesting:
Witness the remarkable spectacle of sea turtles nesting on Florida’s beaches during the nesting season, typically from May through October. Visit renowned nesting sites such as Melbourne Beach, Juno Beach, Sanibel Island, Boca Raton, and Naples, where loggerheads, greens, and occasionally leatherbacks come ashore to lay their eggs. Take part in guided turtle walks or educational programs offered by local conservation organizations. Learn more about these endangered and threatened species and their conservation efforts.
- Hatchling Protection: Coastal towns and conservation organizations take measures to protect hatchlings as they make their journey from nest to ocean during the sea turtle nesting season. Hatchlings typically emerge from their nests at night and instinctively make their way towards the ocean, guided by natural light cues. In a natural setting, the brightest light would be the moonlight reflecting off the ocean. However, artificial lighting from buildings, streetlights, and other sources can disorient hatchlings, leading them away from the ocean and towards roads or other hazards.
- Lights Out: Some coastal communities implement ordinances or voluntary measures to turn off or dim lights along beaches during nesting season to mitigate this risk. By reducing artificial lighting, these communities help guide hatchlings safely to the ocean and minimize the risk of disorientation. Visitors can support these efforts by following guidelines and avoiding the use of flashlights or other bright lights on the beach at night.
- Instinctive Journey: This journey is filled with challenges, including predators, obstacles, and human disturbances. Conservation efforts such as closing streets and, as discussed above, turning public lights off at night aim to protect hatchlings during this critical stage of their life cycle. This ensures their survival and contributes to the preservation of sea turtle populations.
8. Sanctuaries and Rehabilitation Centers:
Learn about Florida’s sustainability efforts and get up close to rescued and rehabilitated animals at wildlife sanctuaries and rehabilitation centers across the state. The Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, and National Key Deer Refuge provide educational programs, guided tours, and hands-on experiences with a variety of native and exotic species.
9. Nighttime Adventures:
Join guided night tours and eco-adventures in Florida for nocturnal wildlife encounters. From owls and bats to fireflies and nocturnal mammals, these tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the wilderness after dark. Join a moonlit beach walk to observe nesting sea turtles, or take a guided hike through the woods to listen for the calls of nocturnal animals.
A must-see year-round is the oceanic bioluminescence.
Exploring Bioluminescence
Witness the mesmerizing glow emitted by bioluminescent organisms in Florida’s waters, drawing visitors from far and wide to witness its magic.
- During the warm summer months, dinoflagellates, single-celled plankton, illuminate the Indian River Lagoon and coastal areas. A stunning light show is created, similar to a shimmering sea of stars.
- In cooler seasons like late fall and early spring, comb jellies light up the water with their soft, pulsating glow. They take the bioluminescent experience to the next level. Join a nighttime excursion to locations such as the Indian River Lagoon, Mosquito Lagoon, or the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge to immerse yourself in this natural light show and the magic of bioluminescence.
Plan Your Bioluminescence Adventure
Explore the enchanting beauty of Florida’s waters after dark with bioluminescent tours available in coastal areas.
We chose the Mondo Combo Refuge kayak tour led by Chaz from A Day Away in the Indian River of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. It proved to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. Opting for a kayak tour allowed us to cover more ground comfortably for hours at a time compared to paddle boarding, making it an excellent choice for us.
During this 3+ hour tour, we gained so many insights into each animal we encountered and the surrounding area. We spotted numerous bird species, including pink flamingos, observed dolphins feeding and playing up close, and witnessed the mesmerizing bioluminescence of both dinoflagellates and comb jellies after sunset! The experience was truly fascinating, and it was well worth the investment.
Special Bonus, Man-Made Species
As an added bonus, another captivating light show unfolded in the sky. SpaceX had a launch during our tour, and the timing was impeccable.
We watched as the satellite ascended into the night sky, filling the air with a sense of wonder. Minutes later, the distant rumble of the rocket’s engines, followed by the unmistakable sonic boom as the booster re-entered the atmosphere, ready to land on a SpaceX autonomous spaceport drone ship.
After the tour, our curiosity fueled us to research and uncover the identity of the launch. It turned out to be USSF-124, a classified payload for the U.S. Space Force. The mission remained concealed in secrecy due to its classified nature. But we learned that this launch was part of Space X’s commitment to its National Security Space Launch contracts, according to Spaceflight Now.
Final Thoughts
In the vast wilderness of Florida, every adventure brings the possibility of encountering the state’s remarkable wildlife. From the gentle manatees gliding through crystal-clear springs to the awe-inspiring sight of alligators basking in the sun, each encounter leaves a lasting impression. More encounters are waiting to be discovered by you.
Beyond the thrilling encounters, there’s a deeper message to be found. As stewards of this precious ecosystem, it’s our responsibility to respect and protect these incredible animals and their habitats. Whether observing sea turtles nesting on moonlit beaches or marveling at the bioluminescent magic of Florida’s waters, each encounter is a reminder of the simple bliss found in the natural world. So, as you explore the diverse landscapes of Florida, let the wonder of its wildlife inspire you to cherish and preserve this extraordinary place for generations to come.
Our journey through Florida awakened a deeper level of wonder, discovery, and appreciation for this remarkable world around us. I hope you are inspired to journey through Florida. Check out this comprehensive guide for visiting Florida for more tips.
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- photo credit: “Endangered Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus), Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Florida” by USFWS Endangered Species is licensed under CC BY 2.0. ↩︎
- photo credit: “Endangered Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus), Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Florida” by USFWS Endangered Species is licensed under CC BY 2.0. ↩︎
- photo credit: “Dolphin Jumping” by Jenny McB is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0. ↩︎
- photo credit: “Florida Panther” by Monica R. is licensed under CC BY 2.0. ↩︎
- photo credit: “Payne’s Prairie with fawn-colored bison” by Meredith Leigh Collins is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0. ↩︎
- photo credit: “Sea Turtle Hatchlings” by MyFWC Florida Fish and Wildlife is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0. ↩︎
- photo credit: “Sea Turtle Nest on St. George Island” by MyFWC Florida Fish and Wildlife is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0. ↩︎
- photo credit: “File:Boca Raton lights off for sea turtles sign.jpeg” by Tim D Williamson is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ↩︎
- photo credit: “Comb jelly” by Javier Kohen is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 ↩︎
- photo credit: “Comb Jelly” by JLambus is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 ↩︎
- photo credit: “Armadillo” by Rich Anderson is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 ↩︎
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