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Meet the animals of the Everglades

EvergladesAnimals

From silent stalkers to show-stopping reptiles, the Everglades is home to some of the most fascinating wildlife in North America. Glide through the grassy waters and you’ll find yourself in the company of gators, snakes, rare birds, and even a few unexpected guests like capybaras and panthers. Here's a quick guide to the wild residents you might meet on your adventure through the River of Grass.

Animals at the Everglades

American Alligator

The Everglades is one of the best places in the world to see American Alligators in their natural habitat. They can often be spotted sunbathing on riverbanks or gliding silently through the water.

American Crocodile

Rare and mostly found in the southern, coastal parts of the Everglades, the American Crocodile is a protected species. Unlike gators, they prefer brackish water and have longer, V-shaped snouts.

Florida Panther

This endangered subspecies of cougar is incredibly elusive and rarely seen in the wild. They live in the upland forests and swamps of the Everglades, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem.

West Indian Manatee

These gentle giants, often called “sea cows,” are commonly seen in the warmer waters of the Everglades during winter months. They’re slow-moving herbivores that feed on seagrasses and aquatic plants.

Roseate Spoonbill

Easily identified by its bright pink plumage and flat, spoon-shaped bill, this bird adds a splash of color to the wetlands. It wades through shallow water, sweeping its bill side to side to catch small fish and crustaceans.

Great Blue Heron

One of the largest and most majestic birds in the Everglades, the Great Blue Heron is a patient hunter. You’ll often see it standing still near water, waiting to strike at fish with its long beak.

Anhinga

Nicknamed the “snakebird” for its long neck, the Anhinga often swims with only its head above water. After diving for fish, it spreads its wings to dry in the sun.

Wood Stork

This large, bald-headed wading bird is federally endangered but can still be seen in the Everglades. It relies on shallow water to find fish and uses a unique snap-hunting technique with its beak.

Snail Kite

Found almost exclusively in the Everglades, the Snail Kite feeds almost entirely on apple snails. Its curved beak is perfectly adapted for extracting snails from their shells.

Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

The largest venomous snake in North America, the Eastern Diamondback is a powerful predator. Though dangerous, it prefers to avoid humans and will use its rattle as a warning.

Florida Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin)

This semi-aquatic venomous snake is often seen near swamps and streams. It’s known for opening its mouth to show its white interior as a defense mechanism.

Burmese Python

An invasive species, the Burmese Python is a major threat to native wildlife in the Everglades. These large constrictors have no natural predators in the region and prey on birds, mammals, and even alligators.

River Otter

Playful and curious, river otters are sometimes seen swimming or sliding into the water. They’re excellent swimmers and feed on fish, frogs, and small aquatic animals.

Raccoon

Common in the Everglades, raccoons are opportunistic feeders often found foraging near water. They’re mostly active at night, so try to spot them on a night airboat tour of the Everglades.

Bobcat

Smaller than the Florida panther, bobcats are solitary and mostly nocturnal. They are skilled hunters that prey on small mammals and birds.

Nine-Banded Armadillo

These odd-looking mammals are covered in protective armor and can dig quickly when threatened. They are mostly active at night and feed on insects and grubs.

Green Tree Frog

A common sight (and sound) in the Everglades, the green tree frog clings to vegetation near water. It’s often heard more than seen, especially after rain.

American Black Bear

Though not commonly encountered, black bears do inhabit the Everglades, mostly in the Big Cypress region. They are shy and tend to avoid humans.

Gopher Tortoise

These land-dwelling tortoises dig deep burrows that also provide shelter to other animals. They are vital to the health of the upland ecosystems around the Everglades.

Striped Skunk

Skunks are present but elusive in the Everglades. Their distinctive markings and powerful scent glands make them easy to identify, just keep your distance!

Things to keep in mind while spotting wildlife

To make sure both you and the wildlife stay safe and happy, here are a few important things to keep in mind:

  • Keep your distance: It's the animals’ home, and not a zoo. It might be tempting to get a closer look at that gator on the bank or snap a selfie with a heron nearby, but it’s best to admire from afar. These animals are wild and unpredictable, and getting too close can be dangerous for you and stressful for them.
  • Stay quiet and move slowly: The quieter you are, the more you’ll actually get to see. Loud noises or sudden movements can scare animals away or interrupt their natural behavior.
  • Don’t ever feed the animals: Even if you think it’s just a harmless snack, feeding wildlife can do real damage. It teaches animals to rely on people for food, which disrupts their diet and can make them aggressive over time.
  • Stick to designated trails and boats: Wandering off-path might seem like a good way to find hidden gems, but it can actually harm fragile habitats and put you at risk. The trails and waterways are designed to keep both you and the environment safe, so stay the course.
  • Follow your guide or ranger’s lead: If you’re on a tour or in a ranger-led program, pay close attention to their directions. They know where animals tend to be, how to approach them safely, and what to do if something unexpected happens.
  • Go easy on the flash photography: Photos are a great way to remember your visit, but skip the flash, especially at night. Flash photography can stress out nocturnal animals or even disorient them.
  • Be a respectful guest: The Everglades isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a living, breathing ecosystem. That means leaving no trace: no littering, no bothering wildlife, and no taking anything home but photos and memories.
























Book Everglades tickets & tours

Everglades National Park Airboat Tour
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40 min - 4 hr
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From Miami: Everglades Safari Park Airboat Tour
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4 hr
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Everglades Holiday Park Airboat Tour with Alligator Show
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1 hr - 4 hr
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From Miami & Ft Lauderdale: Full Day National Park tour with Airboat & Dry Walk
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9 hr
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Sawgrass Recreation Park Airboat Tour with Reptile Exhibit
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1 hr
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From Miami & Fort Lauderdale: Airboat Tour and Guided Nature Walk
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5 hr 30 min
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Frequently asked questions about the animals at the Everglades

Are there crocodiles in the Everglades?

Yes, the American Crocodile lives in the coastal areas of the southern Everglades, alongside alligators.

Can I see a Florida panther in the wild?

Florida Panthers are rare and extremely elusive, but you might spot one at a sanctuary or education center.

Are the animals dangerous?

Like all wild animals, they can be dangerous if provoked. As long as you keep a respectful distance, your visit will be safe.

Are there venomous snakes in the Everglades?

Yes, four venomous species live here: Eastern Coral Snake, Cottonmouth, Pygmy Rattlesnake, and Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake.

Do airboat tours get close to wildlife?

Yes, but they maintain a safe distance. Guides are trained to spot wildlife without disturbing them.

Is it safe to bring kids?

Absolutely! Just keep a close eye on them, especially near water or on trails.

Are there guided tours to learn more about the animals?

Yes, many parks and reserves offer ranger-led walks, airboat tours, and wildlife presentations.

Can I see animals at night in the Everglades?

Yes! Night airboat tours are a great way to spot nocturnal creatures like frogs, owls, and glowing gator eyes.