Mammals:
* White-tailed Deer: Found throughout the state, often seen in wooded areas and along roadsides.
* Florida Panther: An endangered species, residing in the southern part of the state.
* Black Bear: Common in central and northern Florida, often seen in forests and swamps.
* Bobcat: A stealthy predator, found throughout the state, particularly in wooded areas.
* Raccoon: Highly adaptable, found in urban and rural areas, often raiding garbage cans.
* Squirrel: Abundant in wooded areas, including the common gray squirrel and the smaller, more active fox squirrel.
* Opossum: A nocturnal marsupial, known for its "playing dead" defense mechanism.
* Armadillo: Known for its armored shell, common in central and southern Florida.
* Manatee: A large, gentle marine mammal found in coastal waters and rivers.
Birds:
* Great Blue Heron: A tall, wading bird, common in wetlands and along waterways.
* Brown Pelican: A large seabird, often seen diving for fish.
* Osprey: A fish-eating hawk, found near water bodies.
* Bald Eagle: A majestic raptor, now common throughout the state.
* Red-shouldered Hawk: A common hawk, often seen in wooded areas.
* Florida Scrub-Jay: A unique blue jay, endemic to Florida.
* Cardinal: A bright red bird, common in backyards and wooded areas.
* Mourning Dove: A common dove, found in a variety of habitats.
Reptiles and Amphibians:
* American Alligator: A large reptile, found in freshwater wetlands.
* Sea Turtle: Several species of sea turtles nest on Florida's beaches.
* Iguana: An invasive species, often seen in urban areas and along waterways.
* Green Tree Frog: A common frog, known for its bright green color.
* Florida Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin): A venomous snake, found in wetlands and waterways.
* Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake: A venomous snake, found in a variety of habitats.
* Gopher Tortoise: A large, burrowing reptile, often found in dry, sandy areas.
Fish:
* Snook: A popular game fish, found in coastal waters and estuaries.
* Redfish: Another popular game fish, found in shallow coastal waters.
* Grouper: A large, bottom-dwelling fish, found in deeper waters.
* Tarpon: A large, silvery fish, known for its leaping abilities.
* Bonefish: A prized game fish, found in shallow, sandy flats.
This is just a small sampling of the diverse wildlife that calls Florida home. It's important to remember to respect wildlife and observe them from a safe distance.