The Florida Keys is a tropical paradise unlike anywhere else in the world. Here, you’ll find various fish, birds, and marine life that have made the Keys their home for centuries. At Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we’re happy to make your stay relaxing and memorable. Let’s look at a few Key West animals you can expect to spot on your next trip to the Keys.
The Types of Animals in the Florida Keys
Our unique ecosystems are home to many Florida Keys animals, including crabs, coral, and sea turtles. Here are some of the most common and popular animals on the islands.
Birds
Nearly 300 different species of birds call the Florida Keys home. Their diversity in color and size makes the Florida Keys a bird watcher’s dream. The Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuge has designated places for these birds to nest and forage that are protected from human disturbance.
Coral
Over 45 different species of stony coral and 35 soft coral are located in the waters around the Florida Keys. Restoration efforts have been underway since the 1970s when they began to decline in growth. Grab a snorkel and goggles and see these beautiful life forms for yourself.
Crocodiles
The American crocodile lives in the mangrove and estuarine areas of South Florida and the Florida Keys and is currently listed on the Federal endangered species list. These massive, toothy animals eat fish, crabs, snakes, turtles, birds, and small mammals but are not interested in humans. Keep an eye on the ground and still waters; you may see one when you visit.
Manatees
Manatees are aquatic mammals that are fondly referred to as “sea cows.” They’re slow-moving, massive animals that eat around 100 pounds of seagrass daily. Because seagrass supplies are low due to compromised water quality, many manatees are starving. Many organizations cooperate to protect these loveable creatures and secure their food source.
Shrimp
If you like shrimp, you’re visiting the right place. The Florida Keys is home to an enormous commercial shrimp fishery that catches various shrimp, including brown, white, royal red, pink, and rock shrimp. Visit a local restaurant to taste the rainbow of these fresh crustaceans right from the waters surrounding the Keys.
Stone Crab
Stone crab is a modern delicacy best known for being harvested off the South Florida coast. Strict regulations surround the harvesting of stone crab claws, but the good news is that it’s a 100% sustainable food. One claw is harvested while the other remains so the crab can defend itself until a new one regenerates.
Turtles
Marine turtles are protected by the Endangered Species Act, and it’s an honor to see these animals in Key West. You can find loggerhead, green, and hawksbill sea turtle nests in the seagrass beds on each island.
Fish
Fish are in abundance throughout the waters surrounding the Florida Keys. These sea animals in Florida offer the perfect opportunity for snorkeling and fishing enthusiasts. See if you can spot the following fish.
Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin
Perhaps the most popular animal around the Keys, the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin, is as intelligent as it is adorable. They travel in pods; if you listen closely, you can hear them communicating through high-pitched squeaks and squeals.
Nurse Shark
Most often spotted by snorkelers, nurse sharks spend most of their time hanging out on the seafloor. They feed on fish and small crustaceans; if you don’t bother them, they will let you observe them in their natural habitats.
Queen Conch
“Conch” is a common name that many Key-dwellers call themselves. The queen conch is a soft-bodied sea snail with a distinguished-looking shell. It’s royalty around the islands and a protected species that many organizations work to repopulate.
Best Spots to See the Wildlife
You don’t have to look far if you visit the Florida Keys to see some of its most touted fish and animals. Here are some of the best ways to see your favorite Key West animals:
- Visit one of the many State Parks located throughout the Keys.
- Take a snorkel boat tour to see the coral reefs.
- Kayak or paddleboard through the extensive mangrove paths.
- Order a cocktail and watch the birds fly across the sunset from one of our many oceanside restaurants.
Visit the Florida Keys Today!
Are you ready to plan your trip to the Florida Keys? Check out our website today and see the Key West animals for yourself!
Image Credit: lunamarina / Shutterstock
