Monthly Archives: May 2025

Florida is home to some of the most unique and ecologically diverse national parks in the United States. From vast wetlands to remote islands, these protected lands serve as vital sanctuaries for wildlife, stunning landscapes for visitors, and crucial ecosystems that help maintain the balance of nature. Let’s take a closer look at Florida’s national parks, the species they protect, and why safeguarding these natural treasures is so important.

Everglades National Park, arguably the most notable of Florida’s national parks, was established in 1947. The Everglades is the largest tropical wilderness in the U.S. and the only subtropical preserve in North America. It was designated as a national park to protect its unique wetland ecosystem from drainage and development. This vast network of sawgrass marshes, cypress swamps, and mangrove forests supports an incredible range of species, including the endangered Florida panther, American alligator, West Indian manatee, and a rich diversity of wading birds. The Everglades is also a critical stopover for migrating birds and plays a key role in maintaining South Florida’s water quality.

Biscayne National Park, a popular Floridian tourist attraction, was established in 1980. This park was established to preserve one of the most extensive coral reef systems in the U.S. and the rich marine habitat of Biscayne Bay. Over 95% of the park is water, with mangrove shorelines, seagrass beds, and coral reefs teeming with marine life. Visitors can spot dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, and more than 500 species of fish. The park also protects shipwrecks from Florida’s maritime history, making it a top destination for divers and snorkelers.

Dry Tortugas National Park, another marvel of Florida’s natural world, was established in 1992. Dry Tortugas was designated as a national park to protect its fragile coral reef ecosystems and the historic Fort Jefferson, one of the largest 19th-century forts in the U.S. Located 70 miles west of Key West, this park consists of seven small islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. It is an essential nesting site for seabirds and a refuge for sea turtles, nurse sharks, and an array of tropical fish. The pristine waters and historic significance make Dry Tortugas a remarkable place for exploration.

National parks are more than just beautiful landscapes; they are critical to preserving biodiversity, combating climate change, and providing opportunities for education and recreation. Florida’s national parks protect fragile ecosystems that would otherwise be threatened by development, pollution, and climate-related impacts such as rising sea levels.

By supporting conservation efforts, practicing responsible tourism, and advocating for continued protection, we can ensure that these natural wonders remain intact for future generations to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the Everglades or snorkeling in Biscayne Bay, Florida’s national parks offer an opportunity to connect with nature and witness the beauty of the wild firsthand. When exploring these natural wonders, always remember to leave no trace behind!

 

On the third Friday of every May, Endangered Species Day is recognized as a time to reflect on the fragile beauty of our planet’s wildlife and the urgent need to protect it. Here in Florida, we are lucky to share our landscape with some of the most unique, and highly threatened, species in the country. From the secretive Florida panther to the slow-moving manatee, our native wildlife isn’t just iconic, it’s essential. 

Endangered Species Day is a nationwide effort to raise awareness about the plants and animals that are at risk of extinction. It’s a time to learn, reflect, and take action to support conservation efforts, both locally and globally. Whether it’s through school programs, community clean-ups, or simply sharing knowledge, this day reminds us that protecting endangered species is a responsibility we all share. 

Florida is one of the most biologically diverse states in the U.S., and also one of the most vulnerable. More than 130 species in Florida are listed as federally threatened or endangered, and many more are considered at risk at the state level. Here are just a few these species that call Florida home: 

The Florida Panther, once nearly extinct, is an elusive big cat that still struggles with habitat loss, vehicle collisions, and genetic isolation. Only about 200 remain in the wild. The West Indian Manatees are gentle giants that face threats from boat strikes, algal blooms, and habitat degradation. Though populations have rebounded somewhat, they remain vulnerable. The Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle is the world’s rarest sea turtle and is known for nesting on some of Florida’s beaches. Despite conservation efforts, their numbers remain critically low. The Red-cockaded Woodpecker, dependent on mature pine forests, has suffered from decades of logging and land conversion. Just to name a few, each of these species plays a role in keeping Florida’s ecosystems balanced and healthy. 

Despite these growing concerns, many people are still wondering, why does this matter to us? However, protecting endangered species isn’t just about saving wildlife. It’s about preserving the health of our planet and the quality of our own lives. Every species contributes to its environment. Removing even one can set off a chain reaction that affects plants, animals, and people. Healthy ecosystems also provide clean air, water, and fertile soil, which are all things we depend on. Finally, wildlife-related tourism brings billions of dollars to Florida each year. Our natural heritage supports jobs and communities. When a species disappears, it’s not just a loss for science or biodiversity, but a loss for all of us.  

Although it can sometimes feel like it, we’re not powerless. Whether you live in Florida or elsewhere, there are many meaningful ways to make a difference. Supporting habitat conservation efforts, being a responsible visitor by leaving no trace behind, reducing your environmental impact, educating yourself and others are all great ways to get involved in conservation. 

Endangered Species Day reminds us that we’re part of a much bigger story, one in which every species, no matter how small, plays a vital role. The choices we make today determine what kind of world we’ll leave behind. Let’s make it one where Florida’s wildlife can thrive! 

When most people think of raccoons, they picture clever little bandits raiding trash cans or prowling suburban streets after dark. But in Florida’s unique and complex ecosystems, raccoons are far more than neighborhood thieves. They’re actually vital contributors to the health and balance of native habitats, like mangrove forests.

Mangrove ecosystems line much of Florida’s coasts, especially in the southern part of the state. These brackish, tangled forests offer critical protection against storm surges, serve as nurseries for fish and crustaceans, and filter water naturally. One commonly overlooked fact about mangrove forests is that they’re also home to the beloved raccoon species (Procyon lotor).

Unlike their urban counterparts, mangrove-dwelling raccoons have adapted to life in the swamp. Agile climbers and excellent swimmers, they make use of the mangroves’ dense root systems to hunt, forage, and evade predators. Their omnivorous diet means they feed on a wide range of food sources: crabs, insects, small fish, fruits, and even bird eggs. This opportunistic feeding helps regulate populations of various species and contributes to a dynamic, balanced ecosystem.

Raccoons have long had a bad reputation as pests or scavengers, often associated with disease or mischief. But many of these perceptions are based on critical misunderstandings, especially when applied to wild raccoons in natural habitats. In the wild, raccoons are active and adaptable foragers. While they can carry diseases like rabies, transmission to humans is rare with proper wildlife precautions. In fact, raccoons in healthy, intact ecosystems tend to pose very little threat to people or domestic animals.

As coastal development and climate change continue to threaten Florida’s mangroves, the wildlife that depend on them (including raccoons) face growing pressure. Coastal construction, pollution, and rising sea levels all take a toll on these fragile ecosystems. Protecting mangroves means protecting raccoons, and vice versa. Educating the public about the important role raccoons play can help shift attitudes and encourage support for habitat conservation. The more we understand these resourceful mammals, the more we appreciate their place in Florida’s wild landscapes.

Next time you’re near the coast and spot a raccoon scurrying through the roots of a mangrove tree, consider the vital role it plays. It’s not just a curious critter — it’s a key part of Florida’s coastal ecology.