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Davenport Florida Nature
Check Out Some Local Wildlife in Davenport FL
Welcome to Visit Davenport Florida. This page will continually be updated to show all the beautiful nature we find throughout the Davenport Fl area. Learn more about Hawks, Gopher Tortoises, Sand Cranes, Alligator, Crocodile, Bald Eagle, Black Bears, White Tailed Deer, Florida Panther, Fresh Water Turtles, Salt Water Turtles, Manatee, Waterfowl & much more. Thanks for visiting and enjoy!
Gopher Tortoise
Gopher tortoises have inhabited Florida forest, pastures and yards for a very long time. These reptiles dig deep burrows for shelter and can be found foraging for food in many Davenport Fl yards. Gopher tortoises share their homes they dig with over 350 other species and therefore are key to many other species survival.
It's up to Florida citizens to co-exist with these gentle land tortoises. They are currently listed as Threatned and are protected under state law. The tortoises must be relocated before any new development takes place and property owners must apply for permits for capturing and relocating the tortoises.
Find out more about Gopher Tortoises online at the FWC Website http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/gopher-tortoise/
Sandhill Crane
Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis) are long legged, long necked, gray, heron like birds with a patch of bald red skin on top of their head. Cranes fly with necks stretched out like geese, whereas herons fly with necks tucked in on their backs. Always look for the reddish skin on top of the head.
Davenport is filled with these beautiful birds especially during November and December when the migratory greater sandhill crane population of around 25,000 winters in Florida.
Find out more about Sandhill Cranes online at the FWC Website http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/birds/cranes/sandhill-crane
Florida Hawk
Florida Hawks are part of the family Accipitridae which includes birds of prey like hawks, eagles, kites, harriers, vultures.
These birds have very large powerful hooked beaks for tearing flesh from their prey, strong legs, powerful talons and keen eyesight to track the smallest mouse. Florida is home to 19 species that can be seen all around. All Florida raptors are protected under federal and Florida Law.
Find out more about Sandhill Cranes online at the FWC Website http://myfwc.com/license/wildlife/protected-wildlife/raptors/
American Alligator
American Alligators are opportunistic feeders that prety on insects, amphibians, small fish and anything abundant and easily accessible.
Alligator management programs implemented by FWC emphasize the conversation of alligator populations for their ecological, aesthetic, and economic values while providing for public use and safety. Never approach an Alligator.
Find out more about American Alligator online at the FWC Website http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/alligator/facts/
Florida is known for its diverse wildlife, thanks to its unique location, climate, and geography. Here are some of the local wildlife you can expect to see in Florida:
American Alligator: The American Alligator is a common sight in Florida, especially in freshwater areas like lakes, rivers, and swamps. They can grow up to 14 feet long and are known for their powerful jaws and sharp teeth.
Manatees: Manatees are gentle, slow-moving aquatic mammals that can be found in Florida's warm waters. They are protected by state and federal laws due to their endangered status.
Florida Panthers: Florida Panthers are a subspecies of cougar and are only found in Florida. They are carnivorous and primarily prey on deer and other small mammals.
Bottlenose Dolphins: Bottlenose Dolphins are commonly found in Florida's coastal waters and are known for their playful behavior. They are social animals and often travel in groups.
Sea Turtles: Florida is a prime nesting site for several species of sea turtles, including loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles. These turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on Florida's beaches from May to October.
Snakes: Florida is home to a variety of snakes, including the venomous Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Cottonmouth, and Copperhead. The non-venomous snakes in Florida include the Black Racer, Rat Snake, and Garter Snake.
Birds: Florida is a popular destination for bird watchers due to the state's diverse bird population. Some of the birds you can expect to see include the Roseate Spoonbill, Great Egret, and Osprey.
Fish: Florida's waters are home to a variety of fish, including Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, and Grouper. The state also has numerous artificial reefs that attract a variety of marine life.
These are just a few examples of the diverse wildlife you can see in Florida. It's important to remember to respect the natural environment and observe wildlife from a safe distance.