Category: Wildlife

The Florida scrub-jay, a lively blue bird with white and blue feathers clutching two acorns in its beak, perched on a slender branch. The bird is the centerpiece of the image, with its striking blue and white plumage contrasting with the muted green of the foliage in the background. A small leaf is visible on the same branch as the bird, adding to the natural setting. The bird's sharp claws grip tightly onto the branch, accentuating its wild nature. The scene is framed by a blurred background of green foliage from an oak tree.
Nature

Florida Scrub-Jays: The Sunshine State’s Only Endemic Bird

In the heart of the Sunshine State, amidst the disappearing scrubby flatwoods and coastal dunes, the, Florida scrub-jay, a rare bird species can only be found in these declining areas of Central Florida. The Florida scrub-jay, a vibrant, blue and gray bird, is a unique spectacle of nature that has adapted to Florida’s distinctive scrub habitats. This article takes you on a journey into the fascinating world of the Florida Scrub-Jay, exploring its life history, physiology, ecology, diet, migrations, habitat requirements, and social structure.

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Sea Turtle surfacing during guided kayak tour in Canaveral National Seashore with Viking EcoTours.
Nature

Unraveling the “Lost Years” of Sea Turtles from Canaveral National Seashore

The Start of a Sea Turtles Journey Dive into the captivating world of sea turtles as we explore the mysterious “lost years” of these magnificent creatures after hatching on the Florida’s beaches and pristine coastal ecosystems like Canaveral National Seashore. Discover the essential role these habitats play in the lives of sea turtles, unravel the

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Bottlenose Dolphin surfacing to breath on a guided kayak tours in the Indian River Lagoon near the Apollo Beach Visitor Center & Turtle Mound in Canaveral National Seashore.
Wildlife

Fast Facts: Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins

In this article, we will explore the physiology, life history, ecology, diet, habitat requirements, and social structure of the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin, as well as the best locations for dolphin observation and ongoing conservation efforts.

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Red-shouldered hawk, holding a Florida lubber. These raptors catch different types prey including insects, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and sometimes other birds.
Nature

Raptors

Raptors, also known as birds of prey, are a group of carnivorous birds that includes eagles, hawks, harriers, falcons, kites, vultures, osprey, and owls. These birds include some of the most impressive animals in Canaveral National Seashore and Florida. They include the bald eagle, the United States National Bird, and several endangered species.

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Great blue heron perched in tree on Florida birding and kayak tour. Viking EcoTours typically sees these shorebirds along the shoreline near maritime hammocks and mangrove islands during kayaking tours.
Nature

Shorebirds

What are Shorebirds? Shorebirds in Florida There are many species of shorebirds that can be found in Florida, including herons, plovers, and egrets. Some of the more common species found in Florida include the great blue heron, willet, American white ibis, snowy egret, and least sandpiper. Shorebirds are typically found along shorelines and wetlands, where

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Three Dolphins at sunset near mangroves (DSC_8383)
Nature

Bottlenose Dolphins

The common bottlenose dolphin in Canaveral National Seashore is an amazing sight for everyone on the water. Wild dolphins can be seen year round in the park.

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comb jelly - bioluminescence
Bioluminescence

Comb Jellies

What Are Comb Jellies? These simple bioluminescent animals are 95% water and can be found anywhere from the deep ocean to shallow coastal areas like the Indian River Lagoon. Comb jellies can swim but are considered zooplankton because the forces from currents and tides are normally too strong from them to swim against. Although they don’t

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