Must Do Sarasota Visitor Guide Summer/Fall 2018

Florida's Unique Wildlife
Many endangered and protected animal species reside in
Southwest Florida’s unique landscape including the American
alligator, Florida panther, black bear, West Indian manatee,
bottlenose dolphin, burrowing owl, gopher tortoise, and countless
more rare birds. Some of the best places to see these creatures
in their native habitats are right here in Sarasota County and the
Everglades.
Everglades National Park
With over 2,500 square miles of swamp and sawgrass marsh,
Everglades National Park’s unique ecosystem provides a
one-of-a-kind habitat for snakes, alligator, crocodile, wading
birds, and more. An airboat tour through this magnificent area
to view its abundant wildlife is not to be missed.
SHUTTERSTOCK
Florida’s state animal is the Florida panther, a subspecies of cougar. This large, long-tailed, pale brown cat grows to six
feet or more and with less than 100-180 remaining in Florida; it is one of the most endangered mammals in the world. Its
habitat is usually the same as the mainstay of its diet, the white-tailed deer and wild boar. When deer and hog are not
available, panthers will eat other small animals such as raccoons or armadillos. Many of Florida’s remaining panthers live
in or near Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve. No need to be nervous about encountering these
elusive cats, the closest you’re most likely to get during your visit is spotting a panther crossing sign–and if you do, slow
down and keep a watchful eye. Since 2014, Florida has had a record number of Florida panther deaths, the majority due
to road collisions.
Southwest Florida Marine Life
The Gulf waters around Southwest Florida are teaming with
amazing marine life. Two of the most popular residents are
bottlenose dolphins and the West Indian manatee. A cruise
or kayak trip is a great way to view dolphins or manatees.
Dolphins love to leap and play in the bow waves or chase
the wake of boats. You can often see manatees grazing on
sea grasses in shallow waters of the areas mangrove-laden
estuaries. Sometimes when manatees see kayaks on the
surface, they will come in close to get a good look. Local
guides will give you the best chance of catching a glimpse
of a manatee in the wild.
NITA ETTINGER
Stingrays frequently can be found in the warm shallow
waters of the Gulf of Mexico during the months of May
through October. They come close to shore in search of
food and bury themselves in the sand. You don’t want to
step on a stingray–the result could be a painful sting. In
order to prevent this, it is important to do the “Stingray
Shuffle” when entering the water of Southwest Florida’s
beaches. By shuffling your feet across the sandy bottom
you can alert the stingray of your presence, they will
30 | Must Do Visitor Guides