Florida Guide > Other Florida
Florida Wildlife
One of the intriguing things about visiting Florida is spotting the wildlife it its natural habitat! There are some wonderful examples – animals, birds and even reptiles that for most Brits are a thrill to see! Most people will only ever see some of these in a zoo!
Alligators are probably the most famous of Florida wildlife. There is a saying that there is a gator in every piece of water – and there is a lot of water! You certainly wouldn’t want to risk going into the water to find out! In fact gators are naturally afraid of humans - but nevertheless always respect these beasts and don’t put yourself in danger – you’ll be fine! There is a $10, 000 fine if you are caught feeding a gator – and this is also a dangerous thing to do as it will give a gator the link of food and humans.
Armadillos – often seen on grass verges or even running along the road – remember a lot of Florida has only been built on in recent years and we humans are encroaching on to their habitat.
Raccoons – again often seen on grass verges etc. If trash bins are put out early by villa guests you will see them scavenging in the bins.
Sand cranes – these are long legged and very graceful birds that are often seen, in pairs, and will often walk alongside villas and indeed become very tame. If you are lucky you may even see a baby with his parents!
Large birds of prey – eagles and buzzards. Again, if rubbish is put out too early you will see these huge birds of prey scavenging for food. They are such a beautiful sight s they circle in the sky with their large wing span very evident.
If you are lucky enough to be staying in a villa backing on to a lake you will see all sorts of birds – herons, ducks etc. The lake behind our villa even has an otter which is most entertaining to watch as it bobs up and down catching fish. We think there may be a baby in the rushes as sometimes it swims back to the rushes with a fish carefully carried in its mouth.
Small lizards – often seen climbing on the netting of the mesh cage that surrounds the swimming pools. These are harmless – but quite entertaining to watch.
Snakes – yes there are snakes in Florida – but again – don’t be alarmed. Don’t walk through long grass or by a lake with rushes close to the bank in case you disturb one. Not all are poisonous – but best to be safe.
As you can see – there are lots of things to see in Florida apart from that other more famous wild-life specimen – Mickey Mouse!
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