ANIMALS
American Alligator
Primarily located in freshwater habitats, the American alligator occur throughout Florida, including estuarine environments. It is a keystone predator that creates deep wallows known as alligator holes. These holes are known to hold water during the dry season, providing refuge for fish and other aquatic species. In addition, they are often surrounded by wetland trees which provide nesting habitat for wading birds.
Fox Squirrel
The Big Cypress Fox Squirrel is characterized as having a grey to black body, with a black head and white mask. In addition, their tail is large and bushy with a white tip. They are predominantly found throughout Florida, especially forested wetlands. The diet of this squirrel consists of fruits, nuts, fungi, bulbs, insects, and eggs. When threatened these animals put their tail over their back and give it a quick flick.
Red-Shouldered Hawk
Red-Shouldered Hawks are typically found gliding over wetlands, but rarely soar while hunting for prey. These birds will typically search for prey from a perch, usually a snag (dead tree). Their diet is diverse and includes many wetland species, such as snakes, frogs and lizards, small birds, large insects and small mammals. It has been recorded that these raptors kill prey up to its own size; however if too heavy they will consume their prey on the ground.
Red-Bellied Woodpecker
The Red-Bellied Woodpecker is commonly observed that survive well in both natural areas and suburbs. This bird has an orange-red cap (males), orange-red nape, and black and white barring on the back. Oddly, its belly is not red, but is actually buff colored with streaking in juveniles.