8 state animals of Florida: Wildlife in Florida is well-known, yet certain species serve as stronger ambassadors for the Sunshine State than others.
As a result, eight state animals of Florida are recognized as official state animals.
8 state animals of Florida
State Animal
Florida Panther
The Florida Department of State states that in 1982, schoolchildren from all throughout the state cast votes to choose the Florida Panther—one of numerous endangered species in the state—as the official animal of the state.
Large cats that are often referred to as “Catamounts” or “Painters” are the subject of extensive folklore in the area, as many early settlers hunted them down out of terror.
The Florida Panther’s population was declining, therefore in 1958 it was designated as a protected species, and since 1967 it has remained endangered.
State Reptile
American Alligator
As an “unofficial symbol of the state,” alligators were an easy choice to become the official reptile of the state in 1987, according to FDOS officials.
Often spotted on logs and banks, these animals inhabit the marshes and swamps of Florida.
The status of alligators has been restored thanks to effective population recovery following illegal hide hunting.
To ensure that their numbers don’t decline once more, state agencies are currently in charge of their management.
State officials advise people not to feed or approach alligators, despite their adorable appearance, since they may be extremely dangerous.
State Marine Mammal
Manatee
The manatee was chosen as Florida’s official marine mammal in 1975, making it yet another obvious pick.
These enormous sea cows, whose population is in danger, can grow to be up to 14 feet long and weigh more than a ton.
Because many manatees are killed by humans, the species was listed as threatened. According to the FDOS, boat and barge collisions are the most frequent cause of manatee deaths, with propeller blades frequently severing the animals’ skins.
Nonetheless, to safeguard these species, laws such as the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978 have imposed restrictions on boat speeds.
Manatees move to Florida’s inland waterways in the winter to avoid the cold, making now the best time of year to see them.
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State Mammal
Dolphin/Porpoise
These aquatic creatures, which are frequently seen along Florida’s coastlines, were recognized as saltwater mammals in the state in 1975.
The FDOS claims that the Legislature chose the “porpoise, also commonly known as the dolphin” even though they were unsure at the time of which animal it actually was.
The terms “porpoise” and “dolphin” are frequently used in Florida to describe the Bottlenose dolphin, which is located on the state’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts. The FDOS clarifies that the terms should not be used synonymously.
However, it remains unclear which animal—dolphins or porpoises—is recognized as the official sea mammal of the state.
State Bird
Mockingbird
In 1927, the mockingbird was designated as the state bird of Florida, a designation it shares with the birds of Texas, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi.
This songbird gets its name, very fittingly, from singing, which it frequently does all night long.
In addition, the mockingbird usually consumes insects and weed seeds, which can be quite beneficial to the surrounding population.
State Saltwater Fish
Sailfish
The sailfish is a saltwater fish that is particularly widespread in South Florida due to the region’s abundance of warm water.
State officials report that sailfish can grow to a length of around 7 feet and a weight of up to 45 pounds, with a top speed of 60 mph.
The Legislature formally named it Florida’s state saltwater fish in 1975.
State Freshwater Fish
Largemouth Bass
The Florida largemouth bass, one of the nation’s “most-prized gamefish,” reportedly grows exceptionally large in the Sunshine State, according to the FDOS.
This fish, which may grow to be over 20 inches long and weigh over 15 pounds, has a notch in its dorsal fin and a “exceptionally large mouth.” Typically, largemouth bass inhabit calm waterways with lots of vegetation.
It was officially designated as the official freshwater fish of the state in 1975.
State Butterfly
Zebra Longwing
Florida is home to the Zebra Longwing, which was selected as the official butterfly of the state in 1996.
This butterfly is more prevalent in South Florida, especially in the Everglades National Park. It can be found in gardens, thickets, and hardwood hammocks.
Its long black wings with striking narrow yellow stripes running down them are its most distinctive features.
