Florida is home to a rich variety of wildlife, and among its most beneficial—yet frequently misunderstood—inhabitants are bats. In Florida, there are 13 native bat species, alongside 7 “accidental” species that have only a few recorded occurrences in the northern or southern extremes of the state (Marks and Marks 2006). These flying mammals play vital roles in maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting local agriculture throughout the Sunshine State.

The Florida woods cockroach (Eurycotis floridana), often referred to colloquially as the “palmetto bug,” is a large, distinctive insect native to the southeastern United States. While frequently confused with the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana), the Florida woods cockroach possesses unique physical characteristics, behaviors, and habitat preferences that set it apart. Understanding these differences is essential for effective identification, management, and peaceful coexistence with native wildlife.

The Sabal palm (Sabal palmetto), also known as the cabbage palm or palmetto tree, is one of the most recognizable botanical symbols of the southeastern United States. Designated as the official state tree of Florida in 1953 and South Carolina in 1939, this resilient evergreen is deeply woven into the landscape, history, and culture of the region. Known for its fan-shaped fronds and rugged trunk, the Sabal palm serves as a vital ecological cornerstone and a living piece of southern history.

Freshwater fisheries biologists working on the St. Johns River recently made an exciting discovery: while traveling upriver, they encountered a variety of saltwater fish species, including the iconic Red Drum (Sciaenops ocellatus). Although Red Drum are primarily native to coastal marine waters, in winter they frequently move into estuarine environments, seagrass beds, muddy bottoms, spring-fed creeks, and oyster reefs. There, they use their powerful pharyngeal teeth to crush hard-shelled prey like oysters and crabs.

Coyotes are one of North America’s most versatile and adaptable mammals. Once strictly a western species, coyotes began migrating east and arrived in north Florida in the 1970s. Today, they are recognized as a naturalized species present across all 67 Florida counties. Whether roaming deep forests, rural farmlands, or suburban neighborhoods, these clever canids have successfully made the Sunshine State their home.

Florida stands out as one of the few places across the United States where you can witness majestic Pink Flamingos thriving in their natural habitat. From the vast stretches of the Florida Everglades National Park to coastal lagoons, these extraordinary birds capture the imagination of wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and families alike. If you want to discover what makes these bright pink waders so fascinating, here is an in-depth look at their lives, habits, and unique traits.

The nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) is one of the most distinctive mammals in North America. Often described as looking like a small, leathery cat, they are named for the nine flexible breaks in their armor-like hide. These fascinating creatures typically grow to be 15 to 17 inches long and weigh between 8 and 17 pounds. While they were originally native to more southern regions, they have expanded their range significantly, reaching Florida by the 1920s.

Chestnuts are a unique, nutrient-dense survival crop and a highly valued addition to home food forests and sustainable agriculture. Unlike most traditional nuts like pecans and walnuts, chestnuts are naturally low in fat (roughly 1–2 grams per 100-gram serving) and rich in complex carbohydrates (about 53 grams per 100-gram serving), offering a soft, mildly sweet texture closer to a potato. A 100-gram edible portion of roasted chestnuts provides approximately 240 calories and 3–4 grams of protein.

If you hike through Florida’s dry pine flatwoods, scrubby pastures, or coastal dunes, you will likely encounter an unassuming mound of light-colored sand. Beside it sits a half-moon opening leading underground. Meet the gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus), Florida’s ancient, land-dwelling engineer.

Fire ants are fascinating creatures from a biological and ecological perspective. Known scientifically as Solenopsis invicta, these insects are much more than just a backyard nuisance. They represent a complex social structure and an evolutionary success story that has allowed them to colonize vast territories across the globe, particularly in the southern United States.