Wildlife is essential to Florida's natural ecosystems. The Sunshine State enjoys one of the most diverse assemblages of native wildlife in the country. Thousands of species, ranging from the endangered Florida manatee and Everglades Kite to the majestic great blue heron, depend on the freshwaters of Florida's aquatic habitats.

As the state's population increases and the demand for development grows, these habitats and the animals that depend on them are in greater peril each year. As each habitat is destroyed, the priceless value of wildlife is forever lost.

AQUATIC PLANT MANAGEMENT AND WILDLIFE
Aquatic plant management in Florida considers the needs of our unique wildlife. All plant control work is planned and carried out in concurrence with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and, when plant control might impact endangered species, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Plant managers want to help conserve and enhance wildlife habitat; management workers try to cause as little negative impact on wildlife as is possible.

TOURISM, HUNTING AND FISHING
Florida's wildlife is responsible for billions of dollars of tourism revenue as each year millions of people travel from across the country and all over the world to catch a glimpse of one or more of the state's wild denizens. Wildlife viewing has been a favorite past-time in Florida for both young and old through many generations.

Hunting and fishing has supported human life in Florida for thousands of years. Today they are sports which generate billions of dollars in revenue for the state's economy.

Mammals Mammals depend on freshwater ecosystems to supply a steady source of drinking water, food, native plants, and shelter. Florida's mammals include: panther, otter, bears, raccoons, bats, bobcats, otters, beavers, squirrels, fox, deer, and rodents. One of Florida's favorite mammals is her native mermaid, the manatee.

Reptiles Cold-blooded reptiles in Florida play key roles in the environment. Reptiles include alligators, turtles, tortoises, snakes, and lizards. See our pages on these groups: alligators, turtles, and snakes.

Amphibians Aquatic land-lovers, Florida's amphibians comprise a delicate wildlife population that is especially sensitive to pollution; they demand our protection for their survival. Amphibians include frogs and salamanders.

Insects Some insects in Florida are nuisances; all insects in Florida are essential, even mosquitoes (baby fish and dragonflies eat them). Serving as both predators and prey, insects are a staple in the diets of many wildlife species including fish, birds, snakes, frogs and even mammals. As well, other bugs have been introduced as biological controls for Florida's most noxious invasive plants.

Troglobites Adapted to total darkness, several species of cave-dwelling troglobites can be found hidden deep within the watery labyrinth of Florida's underwater cave systems or buried inside one of several dry caves throughout the state. Go to this of our web pages to learn more about troglobites.

Birds In the air and on the ground, Florida's bird population has captured the attention of residents, tourists, and hunters for generations. Florida is home to a large number of avian species: more than 450 species may be counted in the winter months. They include large populations of American eagles, turkeys, and serenading song birds, not to leave out wading birds, raptors, ducks and many more. Go to this of our web pages to learn more about Florida's water birds.

Fish Florida is well-known for hosting the most productive fisheries in the US; fishing is a frequent topic of interest to residents and tourists alike. Because fish are a primary source of protein for wildlife and people, maintaining the health of Florida's fisheries and freshwater habitats is a primary concern in plant management work. See our web page about Florida fish.

Invasive wildlife species
Florida's subtropical climate is not only host to a variety of invasive plant species, but also to an increasing number of non-native animal species, including parrots, iguanas, snakes, frogs, and lizards. Many species are deliberately released or have escaped captivity; some have hitch-hiked accidentally on products from elsewhere. Once established, invasive species compete with native wildlife for food, shelter, and habitat. Some Florida species have been replaced by introduced invasives, changing the natural habitat forever. The ecologic and economic impacts of invasive species are devastating.

Nearly one million tax dollars were spent successfully eradicating the giant African snail, a species released by a Miami tourist in 1966.

Salvaging precious habitats
The movement to restore Florida's wetland ecosystems and riverine environments offers a hopeful future for wildlife in a fast developing state. Efforts to protect surface water from contamination, prevent groundwater degradation, and limit excessive water consumption can help safeguard the unique aquatic environments that support Florida's diverse array of wildlife.

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Over-harvesting and habitat destruction have affected wildlife populations throughout the state. Today, several animal species are threatened or endangered or are species of special concern (go to FWCC online list) and are protected by state and federal laws. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has established a toll-free "Wildlife Alert" hotline to investigate violations of Florida's wildlife laws. Information leading to an arrest can result in up to a $1,000 reward. Numbers to call are:

Ocala: 1 800 342 9620
Lakeland: 1 800 282 8002
West Palm Beach: 1 800 342 1676
Lake City: 1 800 342 8105