Florida is a birder's paradise. Home to a broad range of flora (trees and flowers abound here), there is ample habitat throughout Florida for a variety of bird (and insect) species. With nearly 500 species of native birds, including the mockingbird and the great heron, Florida is also a stopping-over point or a terminus for many migratory birds traveling long distances.
Also home to a variety of fierce and ancient predators, Florida alligators thrive in the swamps here, along with a range of snakes in the rivers and lakes. Otters, opossums, and bats can be spotted throughout the state, as well as coyotes, bears, and foxes. On the prairie you can find wild pigs, white-tailed deer, and wild horses.
In the Gulf of Mexico up and down the coast of Florida, you'll find both dolphins and manatees as well as a broad range of fish. Though endangered, the elusive and solitary panther still roams the forests of Florida, occasionally making an appearance on camera via motion-sensitive wildlife cams planted in various parks and preserves. A true wildlife lover's paradise, Florida is the place to visit if you want to observe North American animals in the wild.
