Wildlife

Wildlife thrives above and below the water's surface at Biscayne National Park.

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Wildlife Details

Since 95% of the park is below the water's surface, that's where you'll find most of the wildlife. Of the more than 600 fish you may spot while snorkeling or SCUBA diving, sizes can vary from one-inch long to more than 10 feet, and be on the lookout for some of the only healthy stands of elkhorn coral in North America. You may even come across marine mammals such as dolphin, manatees, or even migrating whales. On land, eight different types of amphibians, too-many-to-list reptiles, and mammals such as bobcats, southern flying squirrels, and river otters may be spotted. The endangered Schaus Swallotail butterfly is found only on northern Key Largo and some of the smaller islands within the park; emergency actions have been required to help save the declining population. Other threatened species found in the park include the least tern and five species of sea turtles that nest on the islands. Be sure and check in with a park ranger to learn the best spots for watching wildlife.

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