Animals

Although conditions on the barrier islands and on the mainland can be harsh, animals have adapted to the relentless summer heat and sun, and unpredictable weather extremes including hurricanes. Featured wildlife include birds, small mammals including beach mice, aquatic mammals such as otters, marine mammals such as dolphins, reptiles, amphibians, crustaceans, and fish. Because of the abundance and protected status of animals at Gulf Islands National Seashore, this National Park Area is designated as a National Watchable Wildlife Area.

According to the National Watchable Wildlife's viewing etiquette visitors should keep their distance, keep a low profile since loud noises and sudden motions startle animals, and refrain from feeding animals. Remember to keep your pets on a 6-foot leash while in the park.

Wildlife watching is one of the most popular activities in National Park areas. Keep-in- mind that removing feathers, eggs or nests for natural mementos can disturb wildlife habitats. By protecting the water, air, and habitat from non-native species, it is possible to safeguard wildlife for generations to come.

Birds
More than 260 species of birds have been identified within the boundaries of Gulf Islands National Seashore, since its establishment in January 1971. It is home to the brown pelican, great blue heron and osprey to name a few.

Mammals
The raccoon, opossum, armadillo call Gulf Islands their home. The Gulf is home to dolphins and whales.

Fish
The crystal clear waters surrounding the islands provide habitat for southern flounders, Florida pompano, whiting, red drum and sea trout.

Reptiles
The islands are a nesting ground for the loggerhead sea turtle and home to the diamondback terrapin, five-lined skink and the cottonmouth snake.

Invertebrates
The blue crab, fiddler crab, and lined hermit crab are often seen on the beaches and in the marshes. The bays are home to shrimp, eastern oysters, octopus and clams.

Last Updated:1/6/03
Webmaster Gulf Islands
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