Ethical Wildlife Viewing

Manatees, such as this pair at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center, may be seen in the park year round, yet the best time to see them is during the colder months.

NPS image by Matt Johnson

We hope that your park visit provides ample opportunity to observe a variety of animals in their natural habitat. Please help protect park wildlife by following these rules:

1. Do not use any sound device to attract wildlife. These devices may induce stress and disrupt natural activities.
2. Do not view wildlife with flash or spotlights.
3. Be quiet near wildlife, especially with those tending offspring.
4. Pack out all trash so that these items don't pose entanglement or ingestion hazards for wildlife.
5. Maintain a distance of 300 feet from bird colonies.
6. Do not provide food or water to wild animals, as this reduces their natural and healthy avoidance of humans and reduces the chances of them finding food on their own.
7. Never attempt to touch or disturb wildlife. Wild animals react unpredictably.
8. If you observe wildlife in distress, please report details including the animal, location and time by calling 305-242-1144.

 

 

 

These colorful porkfish are one of the many beautiful reef fish species to observe in the park

NPS image