21 Animals Unique to Florida
Florida is home to a wide range of wildlife, some of which can only be found within its borders. From the warm waters of the Gulf Coast to the dense forests and wetlands, the Sunshine State is a haven for many species, some of which are endemic to this area or thrive in its distinct environment.
Whether you’re exploring the Everglades or hiking through one of Florida’s many parks, these 21 unique animals offer a glimpse into the state’s biodiversity and beauty.
1. Florida Panther
The Florida Panther is one of the most iconic—and endangered—animals in the state. A subspecies of cougar, the Florida Panther roams the southern part of the state, primarily in swamps and forests.
Current estimates are that there are only 120-230 Florida Panthers left in the wild, and conservation efforts remain critical to preserving this majestic animal.
While seeing them in the wild is rare, there are wildlife refuges and sanctuaries around Florida that rehab these animals when in need. Check out my blog on visiting The Busch Wildlife Sanctuary in Jupiter where they take in and rehab Florida Panthers.
2. Florida Manatee
These gentle giants are commonly found in Florida’s warm coastal waters and springs. Current estimates of Florida Manatees in the wild range from 8350 to 11,730.
This is far from the lowest known population estimate of only 1237, in 1991. Since then major conservation efforts and protections have been successful, though they do still face threats from habitat loss and boat collisions.
3. Key Deer
Smallest subspecies of the white-tailed deer, the Key Deer are native to the Florida Keys and not found anywhere else in the world.
They are an endangered species, having almost died out in the 1950s. Currently there are somewhere between 700-800 left.
Want to see Key Deer in the wild?
The best place to visit is The National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key. But remember… while driving south on your way, remember the #1 way Key Deer die is by being hit by a car, so drive carefully when reaching the lower keys!
4. Florida Black Bear
The Florida Black Bear is a subspecies of the American black bear and is found in forests and swamps throughout the state. While their numbers have increased in recent years, these bears still face challenges from habitat loss and human encroachment.
Currently there are approximately 4000 Florida Black Bears in the wild.
Want to see Florida Black Bears in the wild? The most popular place is Marks River Preserve State Park in Tallahassee (North Florida).
5. Eastern Cottontail Rabbit
While not exclusive to Florida, the Eastern Cottontail is particularly abundant here. Known for its fluffy tail and quick movements, this rabbit can be found across Florida’s grasslands and forests.
The Marsh Rabbit, slightly smaller, is the 2nd species of rabbit that is abundant throughout Florida, and can be found nearer to water as they are considered semi-aquatic.
6. Florida Scrub-Jay
This striking bird is found only in Florida’s scrub habitats. With its blue feathers and unique behaviors, the Florida Scrub-Jay is not only an iconic species but also an endangered one.
Conservation efforts are crucial to ensuring its survival, with their population at only around 10,000 total.
7. Everglade Snail Kite
A subspecies of the Swallow-tailed Kite, the Everglade Snail Kite is found in Florida’s Everglades. It is known for its graceful flight and striking black-and-white coloration.
The species is considered endangered due to habitat loss. The Everglade Snail Kite, of the animals unique to Florida, is one of the most endangered. Their population in Florida is believed to be around 1000 and their habitat loss continues as development near the Everglades expands.
8. Red-cockaded Woodpecker
This endangered species of woodpecker is found primarily in the longleaf pine forests of Florida. The Red-cockaded Woodpecker is known for its unique nesting behavior, drilling cavities into living pine trees.
The most popular place to see the Red-cockaded Woodpecker in the wild is at the St. Sebastian Preserve State Park.
9. Florida Sandhill Crane
The Florida Sandhill Crane is a year-round resident of Florida’s wetlands. With their distinctive trumpeting calls and tall, lanky bodies, these cranes are a common sight in the state’s prairies and marshes.
There are between 4000-5000 currently in Florida, and protected.
10. Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow
This adorable little bird is critically endangered, with an estimated population of fewer than 3000 birds left in the wild, primarily located in the Everglades. It only lives in Florida, so the conservation efforts are extraordinarily crucial.
These birds have a unique and challenging nesting habit: they build their nests close to the ground in grassy marshy areas, creating issues when the water levels get to high due to bad water management or lots of rain.
To see these birds in the wild, visit Everglades National Park or Big Cypress National Preserve, but they are much more easily heard (than seen). We love using the “Merlin Bird ID” app when visiting these parks, as it identifies birds by sound!
11. American Crocodile
The American Crocodile is found in Florida’s southernmost regions, particularly in the Florida Keys. Unlike the more common alligator, the crocodile prefers saltwater habitats and is a protected species.
The American Crocodile population is in recovery, with an estimated 1500-2000 living in Florida today.
This is a very small number compared to the American Alligator whose population is estimated at around 1.25 million in Florida.
12. Gopher Tortoise
The Gopher Tortoise is a key species in Florida’s dry, sandy ecosystems. This slow-moving reptile is known for its burrows, which provide shelter for over 350 other species.
They are considered threatened in the state, with an estimated population decline of roughly 60%. Current estimates are around 785,000 gopher tortoises in Florida today.
13. Florida Box Turtle
Native to Florida’s wetlands and forests, the Florida Box Turtle is a subspecies of the eastern box turtle. It is known for its colorful shell and its ability to close up tight when threatened. Their population is abundant throughout Florida though they are considered vulnerable.
14. Green Sea Turtle
While not exclusive to Florida, the Green Sea Turtle is commonly seen in the state’s waters, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico. These turtles are considered endangered due to threats like habitat loss and plastic pollution.
There is hope that their population is in recovery, as an estimated 77,000 nests were counted in Florida in 2023. Will numbers increase even more in 2024?
15. Florida Largemouth Bass
The Florida Largemouth Bass is found in the freshwater lakes and rivers of the state. Known for its size and fighting ability, this bass is a favorite among anglers.
16. Gulf Sturgeon
The Gulf Sturgeon is an ancient fish species that can grow up to 8 feet long and weigh 200 pounds, with bony, armor-like plates that give it a prehistoric look. Each spring, it migrates from the Gulf of Mexico to Florida rivers to spawn, returning in the fall.
While in freshwater, Gulf Sturgeon don’t feed, instead relying on fat reserves built up in the Gulf. Listed as threatened, they face risks from habitat loss and blocked migration routes, making conservation efforts essential for their survival.
Note: The Suwannee River, every spring, is home to lots of spawning sturgeon. It’s an amazing experience, if you get the chance to paddle the Suwannee during spawning season… to see these monster sturgeon jumping up out of the water all around your kayak or canoe. If you’re adventurous… I highly recommend it!
17. Florida Pompano
Found in Florida’s coastal waters, the Florida Pompano is a prized catch among fishermen. Known for its delicious taste and fast swimming speed, it is a staple of Florida’s fishing industry.
18. Florida Swallowtail Butterfly
This brightly colored butterfly can be found in various parts of Florida, particularly in natural habitats like meadows and wetlands. Its striking appearance makes it a popular subject for nature enthusiasts.
19. Giant Swallowtail
One of the largest butterflies in North America, the Giant Swallowtail can be found in Florida, especially in the central and southern parts of the state. Its yellow and black wings are hard to miss.
20. Eastern Indigo Snake
The Eastern Indigo Snake is one of the longest snakes in Florida, growing up to 8 feet long. These snakes are non-venomous. Found in Florida’s pine forests and wetlands, this snake plays an important role in maintaining the ecosystem by controlling small animal populations.
21. Florida Scrub Lizard
Native to Florida’s scrub habitats, the Florida Scrub Lizard is a small but mighty species that thrives in the state’s sandy soil. It’s a key part of the region’s ecosystem, helping to control insect populations.
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