When traveling in Florida most people stay within the tourist corridor and rarely encounter any wildlife. Florida is just like anywhere else, an ever-evolving sub tropical ecosystem. At the top of that system is the guy you see up top. This Florida alligator is about 10 feet long and weighs in at about 350-400 lbs. These are peaceful, lazy creatures but if you go near the water be sure they are there and they already are aware of you. The gator can grow up in excess of 13 feet and over 1000 lbs.
If you stop while driving through the state please look where you're walking, especially in grass or water or you can encounter one of these:
This is an Eastern Diamondback Rattler and is native to the southeast. He won't bother you but he's a viper so has no sense of humor. He is relatively nocturnal but I found him warming himself in the roadway on a cold day. When I snapped this photo I stepped out of my truck and his reaction was predictable:
We have various snakes that are harmless, feral hogs, bobcats, and the very rare Florida Panther. I've lived here all my life and have yet to see one outside captivity. Be careful where you sit, stand, or place your hand. The Brown Recluse is on of many spiders that are toxic. Just remember these creatures only want to be left alone but can be trouble if bothered. You likely won't encounter any of them but they don't mention them in travel brochures.
BIG NOTE: Wherever you are in Florida DON'T feed the seagulls. If you do you will step right into a scene from an Alfred Hitchcock movie!
