The Florida Everglades are full of a variety of amazing, native animals and plant species. Here’s a guide to a few of the most notable wildflowers and wildlife that call the Florida Everglades home and how to spot them on wildlife tours near you:

The Elusive Florida Panther

Even on the best wildlife tours near you in the Everglades, you are unlikely to spot the elusive Florida Panther. But that shouldn’t stop you from trying! This critically endangered subspecies of cougar can not only be found in the Everglades but also in much of southern Florida. The

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) keeps an up-to-date map of all the Florida Panther sightings in the state. You’ll notice that there are quite a few sightings on Babcock Ranch, where you can take wildlife tours and possibly see one of these beautiful panthers for yourself!

Other Native Mammals of the Everglades

While the Florida Panther is one of the most mysterious and well-loved animals in the Everglades, there are plenty of other mammals to spot in the area! White-tailed deer, raccoons, and wild hogs can all be found in the Everglades and on wildlife tours near you. You can see the photos of all these animals spotted on Babcock Ranch on the Babcock Ranch Eco-Tour website.

Alligators and other reptiles in the Everglades

When people think of the Everglades, they often immediately think of alligators. Which is fair, the national park is full of them! But other reptiles call the Everglades home too. For example, box turtles are another common sighting and did you know the Everglades are also home to the Eastern Indigo Snake? It’s one of the longest snakes in North America! You can learn more about these reptiles and other animals from your knowledgeable guide on a Babcock Ranch Eco-Tour.

The Birds of the Everglades

The Everglades is a birders’ paradise. In this expansive national park, you’ll find a variety of native bird species including the Roseate Spoonbill with its striking pink plumage, and the Great Blue Heron, one of the largest wading birds! Bald Eagles also call the Everglades home as do Snail Kites, Wood Storks, Anhinga, and the American White Ibis. If you’d like to photograph any of these bird species, one of the best ways to do so is on a Babcock Ranch Photo Tour.

The Everglades’ Native Flora

It’s not just the animals that will catch your attention in the Everglades, the vibrant flora will catch your attention too. The park is home to Bald Cypress trees, gorgeous mangrove forests, and stunning Climbing Aster. The American White Water Lily, Alligator Lily, and Swamp Lily are also commonly found in the Everglades. One of the best ways to tour the beautiful flora of Southwest Florida is through a walking tour so you can enjoy the beauty of the flowers, trees, and shrubbery at your own pace.