Florida’s geography as a peninsula, combined with its subtropical to tropical climate, creates a complex mosaic of ecosystems. Ranging from coastal marshes and mangrove swamps to inland pine forests, this environment supports extraordinary biodiversity. The state’s mild temperatures and abundant rainfall allow numerous species to thrive, making it a hotspot for native and non-native wildlife. Common animals found here are often linked directly to aquatic habitats or to the urban areas that intersect with their natural ranges.
Signature Aquatic and Wetland Species
The American Alligator is the most recognized large reptile, frequently encountered across Florida in nearly any freshwater body. Alligators thrive in these environments, though they can be found in brackish water for short periods. They are considered a keystone species for excavating “gator holes,” which retain water during dry seasons and provide vital refuge for other wildlife.
Another iconic aquatic mammal is the Florida Manatee, a gentle herbivore that relies on warm water for survival. They congregate in natural springs or near power plant discharge canals during winter months. These massive, slow-moving animals graze on seagrass and other aquatic vegetation in coastal waters, estuaries, and rivers.
The state’s wetlands and coastal areas are also home to numerous wading birds, often seen foraging in shallow water. The Great Blue Heron, one of the largest in North America, stalks fish and amphibians in salt and freshwater marshes. White Ibis are equally common, identified by their striking white plumage and down-curved, reddish bills, frequently seen probing the mud for invertebrates.
Everyday Terrestrial Mammals and Avian Life
Florida’s urban and suburban landscapes are home to several highly adaptable terrestrial mammals. The Common Raccoon is one of the most frequently encountered species, thriving in cities by utilizing readily available food sources like garbage cans and pet food. Virginia Opossums are also common nocturnal residents that are successful in developed areas.
White-tailed Deer are found throughout the state, often seen grazing in suburban green spaces and along the edges of forests. Gray Squirrels are ubiquitous during the daytime. The Nine-banded Armadillo is a common sight, easily identifiable by its bony armor shell as it forages for insects by rooting through lawns.
The avian life overhead features common predators adapted to Florida’s mixed habitats. The Red-shouldered Hawk is the most frequently sighted hawk, recognizable by its reddish barring and loud, distinctive call, often perching on utility poles or trees near suburban woodlands. The Osprey, a specialized fish-eating raptor, is a common sight near water bodies statewide, identified by its white head with a dark stripe through the eye.
Diverse Reptiles and Amphibians
Florida is a haven for herpetofauna, presenting a wide variety of reptiles and amphibians. The native Green Anole is a common lizard, often seen displaying its bright red throat fan, or dewlap, to establish territory or attract a mate. Common Five-lined Skinks are also widespread, with juveniles possessing a distinctive bright blue tail that fades as they mature.
Snakes are a common component of the Florida ecosystem, though most species encountered are non-venomous. The Black Racer is perhaps the most common snake in residential areas, a slender, fast-moving species with a uniform black color that actively hunts lizards and rodents during the day. The Corn Snake, or Red Rat Snake, is a common constrictor known for its orange and reddish-brown blotched pattern, often found near houses where it hunts mice.
Among the common amphibians are the Southern Toad, frequently seen in suburban yards, and the large American Bullfrog, whose deep, resonant call is a familiar sound near permanent bodies of water. The Common Box Turtle is a terrestrial species often encountered crossing roads, distinguished by its highly domed shell and hinged plastron that allows it to completely enclose its body for protection.
Notable Non-Native and Invasive Animals
Florida’s climate has allowed numerous non-native species to establish stable, problematic populations that are now common sightings. The Burmese Python has established a massive breeding population in the Everglades, where it preys heavily on native mammals. These snakes can reach lengths exceeding 18 feet, making them apex predators in their adopted habitat.
Green Iguanas are another highly visible non-native reptile, common in the urban and coastal areas of South Florida. These large, plant-eating lizards are frequently seen basking on seawalls and docks, where they can cause damage by digging extensive burrows. The Argentine Black and White Tegu, a large omnivorous lizard, has also established populations, posing a threat to the eggs of ground-nesting birds and native turtles.
The Cuban Tree Frog, a non-native amphibian, has proliferated throughout the state, often encountered in urban and suburban settings. This species outcompetes and preys upon smaller native frogs. Its skin secretions can also be irritating to human skin and toxic to pets. The presence of these species highlights the ongoing ecological challenges associated with Florida’s favorable climate.