Florida holds some of the most outstanding natural areas in the US, with 13 unique ecosystems that harbor endemic and migratory wildlife. Birds are one of the Sunshine State’s most prolific wildlife species, with 510 species on the Florida state checklist, and some great birdwatching opportunities too. While we can’t possibly list all 510 species here, we can list 5 of the most extraordinary and beautiful native birds of Florida. If your favorite isn’t on the list, add it in the comments!
1. Roseate Spoonbill
Firstly, the brightly-hued roseate spoonbill is a wading bird in the spoonbill and ibis family. Although they have an impressive wing span of up to five feet, these pink birds are rather diminutive, weighing up to just four pounds when mature. Roseate spoonbills feed by plunging their bills into the shallow water and swinging them back and forth in the substrate. There lies their favorite foods: small crustaceans, frogs, newts, aquatic insects, and tiny fishes. Like flamingos, their coloration is derived from the color of the shells of their prey.
2. Sandhill Crane
Next up, the Sandhill Crane, these native birds of Florida are a common sight throughout much of the state, often seen pecking through grasses on land or through shallow waters of estuaries in pairs or groups. Weighing a maximum of 10 lbs, the sandhill crane’s wingspan reaches an impressive 7.7 feet, allowing them to remain in the air for hours without having to flap their wings continuously. The oldest known fossil of a sandhill crane is from 2.5 million years ago.
3. Red-Winged Blackbird
Blackbirds are one of the most commonly recognized bird species, but the red-winged blackbird stands out from the rest with his bands of red and yellow emblazoned on his shoulder. The female of this species is a complete contrast, resembling a common brown finch. While these unfortunate birds are common prey for raptors, they will aggressively defend their territory against much larger birds. The blackbird is so defensive in fact, it may even take on a human, if they dare get close enough.
4. Anhinga
Another common native bird of Florida with an uncommon name, the anhinga is named for the Brazilian Tupi word that translates to “snake bird.” When the anhinga swims, the naming becomes all too clear. The bird submerges its entire body, leaving only the slender, curved head exposed on the surface. Anhingas often sit on tree branches or on banks of water bodies with their wings outstretched. This is to give the wings ample time and airspace to dry before hitting the sky, as anhingas do not have waterproof feathers, making flying difficult while wet difficult.
5. Caracara
The gorgeous caracara hails primarily from Central and South America, but can be found around the U.S. as well. These birds of prey are part of the falcon family, but they often end up playing more of a scavenger role. Caracara are typically not as fast-flying as their cousins, resulting in them not being much of arial-hunters. The caracara shares a spot with the golden eagle for Mexico’s national bird.
Featured Image from Uday Mittal/Unsplash
