Shutdown Notice

Due to the current lapse of federal appropriations:

National Wildlife Refuge System Closure Determination and Notice »

Fish and Wildlife Service Contingency Plan »

DOI Shutdown page »

Conservation in Florida

Threatened, Endangered and At-Risk Species

        Bright red sunset reflected over water with silhouette of a wading bird.
        Florida sunset. Photo: Paul Lang, USFWS.

        Florida is a state rich in a natural diversity of plants, animals and ecosystems. Encompassing nearly 66,000 square miles, this state is home to a tremendous diversity of species that live in varied land and water habitats.

        In the hardwood hammocks near Key West, you might see the endangered Stock Island tree snail. In the surf at Fernandina, you could find three species of sea turtles that we protect, and in the dunes at Perdido Key, you could spot the burrows of Perdido Key beach mice. Along that route, you would cross about 15 major rivers with Spanish, Anglo and Native American names like Santa Fe, St. John’s and Choctawhatchee. Those rivers hold manatees, American crocodiles, Gulf sturgeon and many species of freshwater mussels.

        The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is responsible for managing the nation’s trust resources in Florida for the benefit of the American people. Using the best available science, we work to conserve and connect Florida’s ecosystems and habitats so that wild animals and plants can thrive.

        Fast Facts

        • The Chipola River watershed has 1,270 square miles of basin area, including the extreme southeastern corner of Florida and central panhandle of Florida. This diverse area of ecosystems is reflected in a high species-richness index. It harbors especially large numbers of fish, mollusks, birds, insects, reptiles, amphibians, plant species, and many other taxa.
        • Florida supports one of the largest number of carnivorous plant species, nearly one-half of the orchid species found in North America and the most fern species in the continental United States.
        • The Florida Panhandle is considered one of the five richest biodiversity hotspots in North America.

        Press Releases

        1. A light orange salamander with a bright orange stripe Dec 18, 2018 | 4 minute read

          Conservation partnerships help keep two birds, salamander and skink from requiring endangered species act protections
        2. Dec 11, 2018 | 6 minute read

          National Fish and Wildlife Foundation announces $940,000 in grants from Southeast Aquatics Fund
        3. Dec 10, 2018 | 2 minute read

          New regional director to head southeastern conservation efforts Fish and Wildlife Service
        4. A bird flies low over a pond for a landing. Nov 12, 2018 | 2 minute read

          Hunting season opens with a bang on Merritt Island Refuge
        5. A small black bird with red eyes walks in the marsh grasses. Oct 5, 2018 | 5 minute read

          Service proposes to list the eastern black rail as threatened under the Endangered Species Act
        6. Sep 7, 2018 | 6 minute read

          Secretary Zinke expands hunting and fishing opportunities at 30 of America’s National Wildlife Refuges
        7. Red-cockaded woodpecker flying from its nest. May 30, 2018 | 4 minute read

          Base recognized for conservation work
        8. A uniformed biologist shows off a specimen to three YCC students. Apr 12, 2018 | 1 minute read

          Summer employment opportunity with the Youth Conservation Corps
        9. Current and former state wildlife directors holding a giant check with the Service's principal deputy director. Mar 20, 2018 | 3 minute read

          Florida to receive $26,588,009 in funding for conservation and sportsmen access
        10. Mar 20, 2018 | 4 minute read

          Secretary Zinke announces more that $1.1 billion for sportsmen and conservation
        11. Biologists wearing white gowns head-to-toe walking through nets in a marsh holding whooping cranes. Mar 7, 2018 | 2 minute read

          U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service considers changes to protect endangered whooping cranes
        12. Feb 15, 2018 | 3 minute read

          Resiliency and recovery: Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges overcomes Irma to offer Outdoor Fest
        13. A beautiful sunset on the water with three kayaks one with a dog on board. Feb 15, 2018 | 4 minute read

          Third annual Outdoor Fest to showcase Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges
        14. A hand holding a brownish red crayfish near a cameras lens with a stream in the background. Jan 3, 2018 | 4 minute read

          U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposes listing Panama City crayfish as federally threatened
        15. A cluster of carnivorious plant heads with bright red/orange mouths. Dec 19, 2017 | 5 minute read

          Bat, snail, and popular plant may need endangered species protection
        16. A small fish with dark stripes on a yellow tinged back and white belly. Dec 5, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Endangered Species Act protections not needed for Southeastern fish and crayfish
        17. Two small deer walking across a street. Nov 29, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Florida Keys national wildlife refuges visitor center re-opens with modified hours due to Hurricane Irma
        18. A small deer in the trunk of a car. Nov 1, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Defendants sentenced for illegal take of endangered Key deer
        19. A hand painted sign on plywood welcoming residents back to the Keys Oct 30, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges Complex phased re-opening
        20. A small deer with velvet covered antlers in a recently burned forest. Oct 10, 2017 | 3 minute read

          First, do no harm: keeping wildlife wild and healthy
        21. A succulent green leaved plant with hairy red stems. Oct 5, 2017 | 3 minute read

          U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to list four South Florida plants as threatened or endangered
        22. A turtle basking on a log overhanging a pool of water. Oct 4, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Endangered species listing not needed for three species of wildlife in the Southeast
        23. A colorful radar map. Oct 4, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Rain coming
        24. A dozen large birds on the edge of a mangrove island. Oct 3, 2017 | 3 minute read

          How to manage 45 important coastal species in the face of environmental changes
        25. A small deer with two small emerging antlers lays on a slab of concrete while taking a drink of water from plastic tupperware. Sep 22, 2017 | 6 minute read

          Thirsty Key deer get a helping hand from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the public
        26. An USFWS employee in uniform looks at a small screen to register the salinity level of a small pond. Sep 20, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Community assistance opportunity to help Florida Keys wildlife
        27. A yellow backhoe moves a large pine tree from a road. Sep 15, 2017 | 3 minute read

          FWS crew gives state partners at Stephen C. Foster a lift speeding up its reopening
        28. An 18-wheeler used for emergency response. Sep 15, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Knocking on doors, saving lives
        29. Hundreds of birds flying over a wetland. Sep 15, 2017 | 2 minute read

          On eve of early waterfowl hunting season, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Merritt Island NWR urges caution related to Hurricane Irma damage
        30. A small deer with velvet covered antlers in a recently burned forest. Sep 13, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Irma leaves plenty of food and water for key deer
        31. A group of USFWS personnel in a circle for a meeting. Sep 13, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Service crews head south
        32. Three men meet before deloying with heavy equipment. Sep 12, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Service assesses damage, starts cleanup
        33. Radar or Irma. Sep 11, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Irma continues its assault on Southeast
        34. A deer similar in appearance to a white-tailed deer, but much smaller in size Sep 11, 2017 | 4 minute read

          Key deer among many Florida Keys species facing Irma
        35. A swirling cloud mass south of Florida. Sep 10, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Irma reaches Florida, heads north
        36. A massive spinning cloud mass between Cuba and the Bahamas. Sep 9, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Irma aims at Keys, Georgia, Alabama
        37. A map of southeastern Florida. Sep 8, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service responders bringing technology to aid Hurricane Irma response, bolster safety
        38. A biologist looks out at the destruction and fallen vegetation outside the gate of the aviary. Sep 8, 2017 | 1 minute read

          Friday Hurricane Irma roundup
        39. A tiny sea turtle marches towards the ocean on a wet beach. Sep 8, 2017 | 1 minute read

          Public advisory on sea turtle nests and Hurricane Irma
        40. Satellite image of huge hurricane between Florida and Puerto Rico. Sep 8, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Service prepares for Hurricane Irma
        41. Two men attach a tarp onto a damaged roof. Sep 8, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Tips for rebuilding
        42. A massive hurricane threatens Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Sep 7, 2017 | 4 minute read

          Hurricane Irma: How we are responding
        43. Two young ladies showing off awards from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Aug 23, 2017 | 1 minute read

          Rutherford High School students complete summer YCC program
        44. Jul 19, 2017 | 1 minute read

          Summer youth employment at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
        45. A small black snake with sparse white scales coiled in an outstretched hand. Jul 17, 2017 | 4 minute read

          A recovery milestone: Threatened eastern indigo snake reintroduced to Florida Panhandle
        46. A small brown bat on the roof of a cave with a fuzzy white fungus on its nose. Jul 17, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service directs money to Southeast to fight bat disease
        47. A young woman in waders fishing in a shallow river. Jun 14, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Interior Secretary Zinke announces $1.1 billion in funding for state wildlife agencies; more than $243 million to Southeast U.S.
        48. A spiny flower with thin, bright purple petals. May 19, 2017 | 8 minute read

          2016 National and Regional Recovery Champions
        49. Three small black bear cubs yawning in unison. May 19, 2017 | 3 minute read

          2017 Endangered Species Day Events
        50. A black bear snoozing on a tree limb. Apr 18, 2017 | 4 minute read

          Florida black bear population continues to increase
        51. A light orange salamander with a bright orange stripe Apr 6, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife, the military and state of Florida boost conservation at Camp Blanding
        52. Four manatees and a school of fish assemble under crystal clear water. Mar 30, 2017 | 4 minute read

          Manatee reclassified from endangered to threatened as habitat improves and population expands - existing federal protections remain in place
        53. Tree-like coral under what looks like snow from spawning coral. Mar 23, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Coral reef commons draft habitat conservation plan available for public review and comment
        54. A Florida panther walking on a gravel road with a slash pine forest in the background Feb 22, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Florida panther population estimate updated
        55. Very sandy soil with sparse grassy vegetation and short palms. Oct 7, 2016 | 4 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service proposes listing four south Florida plants as threatened or endangered
        56. A NC biologist holding a sicklefin redhorse on a river bank in front of a hydroelectric dam. Oct 6, 2016 | 6 minute read

          Endangered Species Act protection not needed for seven Southeastern species
        57. Two dark gray mussels with striations on a red towel next to a ruler for scale. Oct 5, 2016 | 3 minute read

          U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service extends protections to rare mussel in Suwannee River basin
        58. A large, dinosaur like fish with ridges on its back and two small feelers extending from its mouth. Oct 5, 2016 | 3 minute read

          U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issues biological opinion for Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River basin
        59. An iridescent insect with many small hairs on its belly standing on leaf litter and sandy soil Oct 4, 2016 | 4 minute read

          U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to list Miami tiger beetle as endangered
        60. Very sandy soil with sparse grassy vegetation and short palms. Sep 28, 2016 | 4 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service listing four south Florida plants as threatened or endangered
        61. A group of manatees swims near the surface of clear blue water. Sep 15, 2016 | 5 minute read

          Service releases access plans for Three Sisters Springs for the upcoming winter season
        62. A black salamander with gray spots. Sep 13, 2016 | 3 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service to gather more information on two rare reptiles in the Southeast
        63. A small mouse white white belly and sand-colored back hides behind beach vegetation. Aug 30, 2016 | 5 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service conducting five-year status reviews of 22 Southeastern species
        64. A biologist holding a tiny loggerhead sea turtle with a USFWS biologist in uniform in the background. Jul 27, 2016 | 6 minute read

          UCF to establish permanent sea turtle research field station on Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
        65. Small bird with dark olive-gray and the tail and wings are olive-brown. Jul 22, 2016 | 5 minute read

          Corps and Service agree on actions for conserving cape sable seaside sparrow and restoring balance to Everglades ecosystem
        66. Tiny dust-sized snails in a petri dish. Jul 5, 2016 | 2 minute read

          Federal protection of tiny snail not needed
        67. Small bird with brown and white feathering. Yellow feathering on its head. May 11, 2016 | 4 minute read

          First captive-bred Florida grasshopper sparrow chicks hatched
        68. Two ducks with large round, feathered heads in swirling blue water. Apr 7, 2016 | 3 minute read

          2016 Georgia junior duck stamp student art competition winners chosen
        69. Bright green needles emerge from a central cone of a longleaf pine tree Apr 6, 2016 | 3 minute read

          Seeing the forest for the trees
        70. A close up photo of a gray-silver salamander walking on a layer of wet moss. Mar 15, 2016 | 2 minute read

          Four Southeastern species do not require federal protection, two others under further review
        71. A beautiful sunset on the water with three kayaks one with a dog on board. Feb 18, 2016 | 4 minute read

          Do me a FAVOR: friends and volunteers of the refuges are critical link in wildlife conservation
        72. A beautiful sunset on the water with three kayaks one with a dog on board. Feb 9, 2016 | 2 minute read

          Go wild in the Florida Keys: Outdoor Fest offers four days of fun on four Wildlife Refuges
        73. Bright red and yellow flowers emerge from a spiky cactus. Jan 21, 2016 | 5 minute read

          U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designates critical habitat for two south Florida cacti
        74. A small deer with velvet covered antlers in a recently burned forest. Jan 12, 2016 | 1 minute read

          Get wild in the four Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges with the first annual Outdoor Fest, March 17th-20th
        75. A manatee partially covered in algae looks directly into the camera surrounded by a school of fish. Jan 7, 2016 | 5 minute read

          U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to reclassify West Indian manatee from endangered to threatened
        76. An iridescent insect with many small hairs on its belly standing on leaf litter and sandy soil Dec 18, 2015 | 5 minute read

          U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposes to list Miami tiger beetle as endangered
        77. A group of manatees swims near the surface of clear blue water. Nov 23, 2015 | 1 minute read

          Service extends comment period for proposed management changes at Three Sisters Springs
        78. Kemps ridley sea turtle laying in the sand. Large with grey shell and yellow body with grey speckles. Nov 13, 2015 | 3 minute read

          New report assesses the impacts of emerging threats on Gulf coast species and ecosystems
        79. A group of manatees swims near the surface of clear blue water. Nov 10, 2015 | 4 minute read

          Service offers refined alternative for access to Three Sisters Springs
        80. Red-cockaded woodpecker flying from its nest. Nov 6, 2015 | 4 minute read

          Service, states, celebrate 20th anniversary of the safe harbor program offering voluntary land management agreements with private landowners
        81. A manatee partially covered in algae looks directly into the camera surrounded by a school of fish. Oct 14, 2015 | 2 minute read

          2014-2015 Three Sisters Springs management strategy to remain in place until draft environmental assessment is finalized
        82. A leafy green vine like plant growing on a rock face. Oct 5, 2015 | 3 minute read

          Service to list Florida bristle fern as endangered
        83. Very sandy soil with sparse grassy vegetation and short palms. Sep 28, 2015 | 5 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service proposes listing four south Florida plants as threatened or endangered
        84. A black white and orange snake with red eyes coiled on fallen leaves. Sep 17, 2015 | 3 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service seeks more information on five species
        85. Bright red and yellow flowers emerge from a spiky cactus. Aug 25, 2015 | 4 minute read

          Reintroduction of Florida semaphore cactus to Florida Keys
        86. Very sandy soil with sparse grassy vegetation and short palms. Aug 14, 2015 | 4 minute read

          Service announces critical habitat designations for Florida brickell-bush and Carter’s small-flowered flax
        87. Three mussels in hand with identification numbers Aug 13, 2015 | 8 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service announces $37.2 million in grants to boost state endangered species conservation efforts
        88. Two florida manatees grazing on the rocky bottom of a lagoon. Aug 5, 2015 | 5 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service proposes winter restrictions on swimming, paddling with manatees at Florida’s Three Sisters Springs
        89. A small brown bat on the roof of a cave with a fuzzy white fungus on its nose. Jul 1, 2015 | 3 minute read

          Service awards grants to 35 states, District of Columbia for work on deadly bat disease
        90. A dark colored salamander with white spots on its stomach and sides. Jun 30, 2015 | 3 minute read

          Federal wildlife officials respond to a petition to list dozens of species under the Endangered Species Act
        91. A monarch butterfly perched on a bushy plant with bright yellow flowers. Jun 17, 2015 | 3 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service and the Wildlife Habitat Council partner to save monarchs
        92. black and white photograph of a man posing with a mounted eastern cougar. Jun 16, 2015 | 3 minute read

          Extinct eastern cougar subspecies proposed for removal from endangered species list
        93. A butterfly covered in white spots with orange and yellow wings perched on a purple flower. Jun 2, 2015 | 4 minute read

          Service provides $5.7 million in grants to help conserve monarch butterflies and other at-risk species in 11 states
        94. Several manatee silhouettes from below with sun beams. May 20, 2015 | 3 minute read

          Manatee enforcement effort slated for Brevard County
        95. Six people wearing life preservers on a boat. May 13, 2015 | 5 minute read

          Service awards more than $16 million to support clean waters and recreational boating through clean vessel act grants
        96. A brown and white bird perched on a dead branch. Apr 1, 2015 | 2 minute read

          Service and Florida Wildlife Commission investigates Migratory Bird Treaty Act violation posted on Facebook
        97. Several manatee silhouettes from below with sun beams. Feb 26, 2015 | 4 minute read

          Service to enact additional manatee protection measures at Three Sisters Springs
        98. Rescued manatee laying on a blue mat out of water. Feb 18, 2015 | 4 minute read

          SeaWorld San Antonio transports rehabilitated manatee via U.S. Coast Guard plane to sister park in Orlando, Florida
        99. Bright red and yellow flowers emerge from a spiky cactus. Jan 21, 2015 | 5 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service proposes Critical Habitat for two south Florida cacti
        100. A Florida manatee calf sticks close to its mother in shallow water Dec 15, 2014 | 4 minute read

          Public invited to comment on proposed strategies to protect wintering manatees at Three Sisters Springs
        101. Two whooping cranes follow a large fan powered glider in front of a gray sky. Dec 11, 2014 | 3 minute read

          Ultralight-led whooping cranes complete fall migration to St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge in Florida
        102. Long white birds flying in formation behind a fan powered glider. Dec 9, 2014 | 4 minute read

          Seven whooping cranes fly into Georgia following ultralight aircraft
        103. Seven young white whooping cranes with beige heads and feathers rest in a protective net pen. Nov 14, 2014 | 3 minute read

          Whooping cranes arrive in Tennessee
        104. A small mouse like mammal hangs on to a small tree branch. Oct 23, 2014 | 2 minute read

          Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges Complex to hold informational meeting on November 10
        105. A leafy green vine like plant growing on a rock face. Oct 8, 2014 | 3 minute read

          Service proposes to list florida bristle fern
        106. A strange looking salamander with horns. Sep 22, 2014 | 5 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service conducts five-year status reviews of 27 Southeastern species
        107. A grass like plant with a large geometric shaped bulb. May 19, 2014 | 5 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service conducts five-year status reviews of 33 southeastern species
        108. A close up photograph of a tiny lobster-like crayfish with dark claws and armor. May 13, 2014 | 4 minute read

          State and federal agencies work to ensure Endangered Species Act protections are not needed
        109. A gray butterfly with black and white antenae and white/orange markings on its wings. May 7, 2014 | 5 minute read

          Service considers economic impact of proposed Critical Habitat designations for Florida leafwing and Bartram’s scrub-hairstreak butterflies
        110. Brightly colored aquarium coral and decorations. Apr 15, 2014 | 4 minute read

          Idaho aquarium sentenced for illegal trafficking of marine life
        111. A small alligator standing on sandy soil. Apr 15, 2014 | 3 minute read

          Michigan aquarium employee sentenced for illegal trafficking of marine life
        112. A red breasted shorebird with black and white markings on its back. Apr 4, 2014 | 4 minute read

          Service reopens comment period on proposal to protect red knot under Endangered Species Act
        113. Long white birds flying in formation behind a fan powered glider. Jan 7, 2014 | 3 minute read

          Endangered whooping cranes arrive at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, FL on aircraft-guided flight
        114. A small leafy green plant with a white flower. Jan 7, 2014 | 3 minute read

          Service designates Critical Habitat for the Cape Sable thoroughwort
        115. Long white birds flying in formation behind a fan powered glider. Dec 31, 2013 | 4 minute read

          Endangered whooping cranes make it to Florida following ultralights
        116. Airborne ultralight with whooping cranes following. Dec 30, 2013 | 3 minute read

          Endangered whooping cranes now in Georgia on aircraft-guided flight to Florida
        117. A dead florida panther laid out in the bed of a pickup truck. Dec 19, 2013 | 2 minute read

          Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, partners offer reward for information about suspicious panther death
        118. Airborne ultralight with whooping cranes following. Dec 12, 2013 | 5 minute read

          Endangered whooping cranes now in Alabama on aircraft-guided flight to Florida
        119. A bright blue bird with bands on its leg perched on a succulent shrub. Oct 25, 2012 | 4 minute read

          Service seeks proposals from states for annual endangered species grants
        120. A large green table covered in different mussel species native to Alabama. Oct 9, 2012 | 4 minute read

          Service protects eight Gulf coast mussels under the Endangered Species Act
        121. A short haired bat wrapped in a blue towel. Oct 3, 2012 | 3 minute read

          Service proposes to protect the Florida bonneted bat under the Endangered Species Act
        122. A large alligator basks in the sun on the bank of a stream. Sep 17, 2012 | 4 minute read

          Visit your southeastern National Wildlife Refuges: october 13-27, 2012
        123. An orange and brown butterfly specimen. Aug 27, 2012 | 2 minute read

          Service completes status review of the bay skipper butterfly
        124. The head of a large boa constrictor being handled by a biologist. Aug 24, 2012 | 2 minute read

          Snake smuggler busted in Orlando
        125. A small yellow breasted bird with grey feathers. Aug 14, 2012 | 4 minute read

          Service announces more than $33 million in grants to support land acquisition and conservation planning for endangered species
        126. A small, black and white bird flies over ocean waters. Jun 20, 2012 | 5 minute read

          Black-capped petrel may warrant protection under the Endangered Species Act
        127. A large prehistoric looking fish jumps three feet over a small river. May 22, 2012 | 3 minute read

          Service reviews interim plan for Woodruff Dam operations
        128. Two large, white, Whooping cranes flying in for a landing on a small pond. Feb 10, 2012 | 3 minute read

          Ultralight-led whooping cranes released at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
        129. A large snake with a black and brown pattern on its back moving through the grass. Jan 17, 2012 | 4 minute read

          Salazar announces ban on importation and interstate transportation of four giant snakes that threaten Everglades
        130. A gray bird with a red face and long legs walks on the grassy water's edge. Sep 20, 2011 | 2 minute read

          First public hearing this Saturday on proposed Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area
        131. A tiny sea turtle marches towards the ocean on a wet beach. Sep 16, 2011 | 5 minute read

          NOAA, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service revise loggerhead sea turtle listing
        132. A white/gray butterfly with black spots blends into a flower bloom of similar color and markings. Aug 9, 2011 | 5 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service emergency lists Miami blue butterfly as endangered
        133. A manatee partially covered in algae looks directly into the camera surrounded by a school of fish. Jun 21, 2011 | 7 minute read

          Service proposes broadened Florida manatee protections in Kings Bay
        134. A group of manatees swims near the surface of clear blue water. Apr 2, 2011 | 3 minute read

          Habitual manatee zone violator sentenced for killing a manatee in Brevard County, Florida
        135. Two small fish hiding in some thick submerged aquatic vegetation. Mar 28, 2011 | 4 minute read

          Okaloosa darter on the road to recovery
        136. Tall, narrow, pine trees spaced about 25 feet apart with very sparse, dry grass in the understory. Mar 23, 2011 | 2 minute read

          Draft recovery plan for gentian pinkroot available for review
        137. Aerial photograph of the refuge where forested wetlands yield to open water. Mar 17, 2011 | 2 minute read

          Friends of Chassahowitzka wins national award
        138. Four young whooping cranes look for food on a muddy bank. Feb 18, 2011 | 4 minute read

          Second whooping crane found dead at Weiss Lake, Alabama
        139. A grassy low-lying area under a bright blue sky. Feb 17, 2011 | 2 minute read

          Public scoping comment deadline extended to March 31, 2011 for the proposed Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area
        140. A single cabbage palm tree emerges from a vast grassland with a deciduous forest in the background. Feb 14, 2011 | 2 minute read

          Generous donation by Cummer family adds 14 Acres to Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge
        141. A grassy low-lying area under a bright blue sky. Jan 7, 2011 | 5 minute read

          Interior Secretary Salazar announces initiative to conserve working lands and wildlife habitat in the Everglades Headwaters
        142. A biologist inspects vegetation on the edge of a marsh. Dec 22, 2010 | 5 minute read

          Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announces more than $19 million in grants to protect coastal wetlands across the nation
        143. Four young whooping cranes with bands on their legs rest in a net enclosure. Dec 17, 2010 | 4 minute read

          Ultralight migration leads 20 endangered whooping cranes over the skies of Alabama
        144. A manatee partially covered in algae looks directly into the camera surrounded by a school of fish. Nov 5, 2010 | 5 minute read

          Service broadens Florida manatee protections in Kings Bay
        145. Two brown pelicans fly in for a landing on the rocky shoreline. Jul 8, 2010 | 3 minute read

          Using sound science, the service addresses urgent habitat needs for birds and other wildlife along the Gulf coast
        146. Wide based trees emerge from a swamp covered in green pondweed. Jul 2, 2010 | 3 minute read

          Salazar unveils special edition duck stamp cachet public can purchase to support Gulf wildlife refuges
        147. Two gloved workers wearing protective glasses soap up and clean an oiled bird. May 9, 2010 | 3 minute read

          First two birds, oiled from the Gulf spill, readied for release at Pelican National Wildlife Refuge
        148. A small deer with velvet covered antlers in a recently burned forest. Apr 27, 2010 | 6 minute read

          Stimulus funds help determine future of endangered key deer at Florida Keys Refuge
        149. A tiny loggerhead hatchling hustles towards the ocean. Apr 20, 2010 | 5 minute read

          Georgia Aquarium and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service team up to save loggerheads
        150. A white bird with a black cap and forked tail flying in front of a blue sky. Apr 5, 2010 | 3 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service conducts five-year status review for roseate tern
        151. A bright blue bird with bands on its leg perched on a succulent shrub. Apr 5, 2010 | 3 minute read

          Stimulus funds help Florida scrub jays at Merritt refuge
        152. Photograph of female florida panther trailed by two cubs. Mar 31, 2010 | 2 minute read

          Panthers in picayune kicking up their heels
        153. Vegetated beach dunes with a small forest in the background. Feb 3, 2010 | 3 minute read

          Fall in love with nature this Valentines day
        154. A large snake with a black and brown pattern on its back moving through the grass. Jan 20, 2010 | 5 minute read

          Salazar moves to ban importation and interstate transfer of Burmese python and eight other giant invasive snakes
        155. A small gopher tortoise with tan shell standing on sandy grass covered soil. Jan 12, 2010 | 3 minute read

          Federal agency clarifies request for gopher tortoise information following its 90-Day finding
        156. A manatee partially covered in algae looks directly into the camera surrounded by a school of fish. Jan 12, 2010 | 3 minute read

          Federal finding means Florida manatee critical habitat designation warrants revision
        157. Four young whooping cranes look for food on a muddy bank. Jan 7, 2010 | 6 minute read

          Ultralight migration leads 20 endangered whooping cranes into Georgia
        158. A bright white lighthouse emerges over calm water and a mix of palm and oak trees. Jan 2, 2010 | 5 minute read

          Ultralight-led whooping cranes arrive at final wintering destination in Florida
        159. A Florida panther walking on a gravel road with a slash pine forest in the background Dec 18, 2009 | 3 minute read

          Florida panther recovery plan, third revision available
        160. Eight whooping cranes follow an ultralight fan powered glider in Kentucky. Dec 8, 2009 | 5 minute read

          Ultralight migration leads 20 endangered whooping cranes over the skies of Tennessee
        161. Hundreds of brown pelicans cover a vegetated beach. Nov 11, 2009 | 4 minute read

          Brown pelican populations recovered, removed from Endangered Species List
        162. Two large, white, Whooping cranes flying in for a landing on a small pond. Oct 26, 2009 | 5 minute read

          Young whooping cranes will learn migration route from their elders
        163. Long white birds flying in formation behind a fan powered glider. Oct 22, 2009 | 5 minute read

          Ninth group of endangered whooping cranes depart on ultralight-guided flight to Florida
        164. A white bird with angular wings and a dark head. Sep 23, 2009 | 6 minute read

          Service releases climate change strategy for public review and comment
        165. A white breasted bird with a brown head and grey feathers. Sep 11, 2009 | 6 minute read

          Secretary Salazar announces more than $41 million to purchase wetlands and fund grants for migratory waterfowl habitat more than $7 million in waterfowl habitat grants approved for southeastern states
        166. A small gopher tortoise with tan shell standing on sandy grass covered soil. Sep 9, 2009 | 4 minute read

          Federal finding means gopher tortoise status in the eastern portion of its range merits further review
        167. Aerial photograph of the refuge where forested wetlands yield to open water. Aug 24, 2009 | 4 minute read

          New manager at Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge Complex
        168. A dead florida panther laid out in the bed of a pickup truck. Aug 5, 2009 | 2 minute read

          Troup county panther was a Florida panther -- wildlife CSI: high-tech genetic testing used to determine cat’s parentage
        169. Thousands of ducks taking flight out of a marsh nearly cover the sky. Jul 31, 2009 | 6 minute read

          Liberal season proposed for upcoming late waterfowl season
        170. Storm surge from the ocean cuts through a barrier island. Jun 29, 2009 | 4 minute read

          Service will host public meetings on coastal barrier resources system pilot project units
        171. Six people wearing life preservers on a boat. Jun 9, 2009 | 7 minute read

          Secretary Salazar announces boating grants to 28 states to help keep waterways clean
        172. A mature bald eagle with white head and dark brown feathers perched on a dead tree limb just over a giant nest. Jun 8, 2009 | 3 minute read

          Eagle shooter sentenced in Tampa, Florida
        173. A huge bin of crushed ivory pieces. May 13, 2009 | 5 minute read

          Endangered species wildlife on luxury yacht in south Florida results in conviction, seizure and forfeitures
        174. Three small black bear cubs yawning in unison. May 13, 2009 | 4 minute read

          Fish and Wildlife Service celebrates Endangered Species Day
        175. Grassy vegetation emerges from coastal beach dunes. Apr 22, 2009 | 3 minute read

          Agency draft recovery plan for St. Andrew beach mouse available for review
        176. A biologist with a walking stick walks through dense wetland vegetation. Apr 20, 2009 | 11 minute read

          $7 million in federal grants awarded to Native American tribes for wildlife conservation work
        177. A bright yellow bird with a downward curved beak perched on a tree branch. Apr 20, 2009 | 4 minute read

          Interior Secretary Salazar announces award of $9 million in grants to states for imperiled species Conservation

        Stories

        1. Three Service employees volunteering at a food bank with large packages of sweet potatoes Dec 3, 2018 | 2 minute read

          Florida Service staff helps Food Bank distribute goods to families
        2. Two large white birds flying low over a wetland coming in for a landing with a Service biologist in the foreground Nov 30, 2018 | 2 minute read

          “Journey of the Whooping Crane” follows efforts to save a rare, endangered bird
        3. A pine forest with trees snapped in half by high winds and a bent speed limit sign Nov 29, 2018 | 6 minute read

          After Hurricane Michael
        4. Biologist assess damage to a forest after a hurricane Nov 21, 2018 | 3 minute read

          Test flight for red-cockaded woodpeckers
        5. An american flag flies in the wind from its new home atop a Cold War era flagpole Nov 14, 2018 | 4 minute read

          A Cold War flagpole, reclaimed
        6. A white sign that reads "Monarch Butterfly Festival, October 27th, St. Marks NWR, 850-925-6121" Oct 24, 2018 | 5 minute read

          It’s monarch time
        7. A brown sign bent in half by high winds that reads St Vincent NWR Oct 22, 2018 | 6 minute read

          Survivors of the storm
        8. A street sign that reads “Shade St” on a street denuded of all vegetation Oct 19, 2018 | 8 minute read

          “The first people we’ve seen here since the hurricane”
        9. A drum-shapped buoy washed ashore with plam trees and a lighthouse in the distance Oct 17, 2018 | 5 minute read

          Service makes headway in Hurricane Michael repairs
        10. A fallen street sign blown over by high winds reads Mercedes Ave. Oct 14, 2018 | 6 minute read

          The Battle for Mercedes Avenue
        11. A bowling alley with one wall and part of the roof blown off. Oct 13, 2018 | 5 minute read

          Service task forces start assisting in Hurricane Michael recovery
        12. A volunteer removes weeds from a pollinator garden Oct 4, 2018 | 2 minute read

          Friends, plants, and pollinators grow at Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge garden
        13. A photo of the shore from the water with a bright white lighthouse, a large wooden dock and numerous palm and desiduous trees. Sep 27, 2018 | 9 minute read

          The sea and the Key
        14. A prescribed fire burns vegetation just outside of a housing development. Sep 10, 2018 | 9 minute read

          Safe and sound burning
        15. An airboat operator sits back and watches the marsh burn. Aug 24, 2018 | 8 minute read

          Fire as tool, and as friend
        16. A man wearing a yellow hard hat and firefighting gear Jul 27, 2018 | 7 minute read

          On the front lines
        17. Jun 26, 2018 | 1 minute read

          Summer youth employment at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
        18. Jun 4, 2018 | 7 minute read

          A shining example
        19. hundreds of birds dot a small island below a bright blue sky. May 31, 2018 | 3 minute read

          Meet the Gulf Restoration Office
        20. A deep black snake coiled up on sandy soil with young longleaf pine seedlings in the background May 25, 2018 | 8 minute read

          Snakes in a bag
        21. Four released birds spread their wings and take flight towards the blue sky. Apr 17, 2018 | 6 minute read

          Taking flight to freedom
        22. A visitor looks intently at an iPhone screen attached to a large photographic scope. Feb 28, 2018 | 3 minute read

          Shutterbugs at St. Marks
        23. A man standing in front of a large pine tree trunk Jan 29, 2018 | 8 minute read

          Safe harbor for woodpeckers
        24. Two people work together to lift a large sea turtle next to a wheelbarrow. Jan 8, 2018 | 2 minute read

          Service helps sea turtles hit by Florida freeze
        25. A tiny white and brown mouse held by a biologist. Dec 13, 2017 | 7 minute read

          The mouse that roared
        26. Nov 30, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge and Friends group educate local school children
        27. A woodpecker perched on a tree with a bug in its mouth Nov 20, 2017 | 9 minute read

          The woodpecker’s journey
        28. A building built on steel footings ready for hurricane force winds. Nov 9, 2017 | 5 minute read

          Service facilities built to withstand nature’s worst
        29. Bright green grass emerges from a huge marsh. Nov 8, 2017 | 7 minute read

          Refuges reach out to urban visitors
        30. A team of USFWS employees gather in a circle for directions from Incident Commander Sami Gray. Oct 16, 2017 | 10 minute read

          A tough woman gets the job done
        31. A rainbow emerges on the tail end of a thunderstorm Oct 16, 2017 | 5 minute read

          Behind the lens
        32. Oct 11, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Layne Hamilton, project leader at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex
        33. Men in hard hats and yellow safety vests line up for lunch. Sep 17, 2017 | 9 minute read

          A tiny town hit hard by Irma
        34. A man in protective gear uses a chainsaw to cut a fallen tree. Sep 16, 2017 | 5 minute read

          ‘Lots of new help here,’ as recovery picks up and residents begin returning
        35. Palm and mangrove trees snapped like twigs. Sep 15, 2017 | 7 minute read

          Service employees joining Irma response effort
        36. Several manatee silhouettes from below with sun beams. Sep 11, 2017 | 3 minute read

          ‘I had to do something’
        37. A military officer in uniform releases a gopher tortoise next to a burrow. Aug 22, 2017 | 8 minute read

          Boosting the gopher tortoise
        38. A man posing for a selfie in front of the Pelican Island NWR sign. Aug 14, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Jeremy Edwardson, deputy project leader at the Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge Complex
        39. Two finely manicured hands reach for a tiny gopher tortoise hiding in its shell on sandy soil. Jul 20, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Florida couple dedicates property to conservation
        40. A group of African-American women and children pose for a photo on a boardwalk in front of a forest. Jun 12, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Service partners with Zeta Phi Beta
        41. Wiry pine trees sparsley dot a sandy landscape. May 9, 2017 | 7 minute read

          A harmonious future for profits, pine and at-risk species along the Florida-Alabama line
        42. A man stands in front of a power point presentation. May 3, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Enhancing the climate resilience of America’s natural resources
        43. A tiny snail held in front of a vast marsh. May 3, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Students help restore Everglades
        44. A firefighter in protective gear marches through the brush of a pine forest. May 2, 2017 | 5 minute read

          Fencing fire
        45. Entrance sign notifies visitors the refuge is closed due to a fire. May 2, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Keeping upbeat
        46. A man wearing a hard hat and protective gear yeilds an axe. May 2, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Puerto Ricans bring fight to fire
        47. A head-on photograph of two grey fighter jets flying in formation with a blue sky and clouds in the background. Apr 26, 2017 | 6 minute read

          Biologists on bases: Fish and Wildlife joins the military
        48. A deer similar in appearance to a white-tailed deer, but much smaller in size Apr 12, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Support and cooperation cure the New World screwworm infestation in the Keys
        49. Employees and volunteers in personal flotation devices unload oyster shell from a boat. Mar 10, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Oyster reef project designed to aid pelican island
        50. A red, semi-transluscent fish with catfish like whiskers in an aquarium. Feb 8, 2017 | 3 minute read

          17 more fish, mussels, and other species don’t need the ESA’s protection
        51. A group of seven people crouching on a beach while holding a 16 foot python. Feb 8, 2017 | 2 minute read

          Pythons nose their way into Florida Keys
        52. A bright yellow sun rises over the Atlantic Ocean. Feb 8, 2017 | 3 minute read

          Sea turtle monitoring at Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge
        53. A small deer with antlers in front of a road sign on the side of a road. Feb 1, 2017 | 5 minute read

          Whats old is new again (New World screwworm, that is)
        54. A bird on the wing with black feathers on its wings and white breast. Nov 28, 2016 | 2 minute read

          Tracking “Panther,” the swallow-tailed kite
        55. Two butterflies with blue and orange spots perched on a bright red flower covered in pollen. Jun 2, 2016 | 2 minute read

          Rare Miami blue butterflies discovered in Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge
        56. A large snake with a black and brown pattern on its back moving through the grass. Apr 13, 2016 | 4 minute read

          Partnering across the Everglades to battle invasives
        57. A dark grey bird with bright red inflated ball under its neck. Apr 3, 2016 | 3 minute read

          Luring magnificent frigatebirds back to Key West National Wildlife Refuge
        58. Bright orange flames engulf low-lying scrub in a pine tree stand. Feb 4, 2016 | 5 minute read

          St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge conducts precision prescribed fire at its wildland fire education site
        59. A tiny turtle hatchling covered in sand. Apr 20, 2015 | 2 minute read

          Five things you need to know
        60. Nov 22, 2013 | 4 minute read

          Service and its partners remove another dam in greater Birmingham area, improves aquatic habitat
        61. A deer similar in appearance to a white-tailed deer, but much smaller in size Sep 24, 2010 | 2 minute read

          The endangered key deer: no place to go

        Species Profiles

        1. Fuzzy yellow and purple flowers emerging from a green grass-like stalk.

          American chaffseed
        2. A small, black and white bird flies over ocean waters.

          Black-capped petrel
        3. A small black bird with red eyes walks in the marsh grasses.

          Eastern black rail
        4. A Florida panther walking on a gravel road with a slash pine forest in the background

          Florida panther
        5. A grey bird with yellow markings over its eye perched on a tall reed on the edge of a marsh

          Macgillivray’s seaside sparrow
        6. An iridescent insect with many small hairs on its belly standing on leaf litter and sandy soil

          Miami tiger beetle
        7. An adult wolf walking in an enclosure at the zoo.

          Red wolf
        8. Two dark gray mussels with striations on a red towel next to a ruler for scale.

          Suwanee moccasinshell
        9. A Florida manatee calf sticks close to its mother in shallow water

          West Indian manatee

        Map of Offices

        Frequently Asked Questions

        Do I need a fishing license or hunting permit in Florida?

        Licenses are provided by our state partners, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Visit their Recreational Hunting, Fishing Licenses and Permits web site, or call (850) 265-3676.

        I am a landowner, consultation or project manager. Where can I find information I need to consider in planning my project?

        To find a list of federally protected species that may occur in your county, use the Service’s Information for Planning and Conservation (IPaC) online tool. The information is updated routinely, so check back often for the latest.

        How do I report wildlife emergencies, sightings, fish kills, etc., in Florida?

        Notify our state partners, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Use their online contact resource, or call (850) 265-3676.

        What do I do if I experience a panther, manatee or sea turtle depredation or other human/wildlife interaction?

        Please notify the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission by calling their Wildlife Alert Hotline at (888) 404-FWCC (3922), or if you’re currently in the state, #FWC or FWC on your cell phone.

        How do I report injured or nuisance wildlife in Florida?

        Please notify the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission by calling their Wildlife Alert Hotline at (888) 404-FWCC (3922), or if you’re currently in the state, #FWC or FWC on your cell phone.

        How do I report suspected violations of the Endangered Species Act?

        Report a suspected crime involving a federally listed species by emailing fws_tips@fws.gov or calling 1- 844-FWS-TIPS (397-8477).

        Waves crashing on a sandy beach
        Florida coastal shore. Photo: Paul Lang, USFWS.

        Habitat Restoration Projects

        The Everglades

        The Everglades is recognized both nationally and internationally as one of the world’s unique natural and cultural resources. Encompassing nearly 18,000 square miles of the southern tip of the Florida peninsula, the Everglades and the greater Everglades ecosystem (spanning from the Kissimmee River basin north of Lake Okeechobee all the way south to Florida Bay) are also the focus of the world’s largest intergovernmental watershed restoration effort.

        The Service is addressing an unprecedented workload to assure that an Everglades restoration plan provides maximum benefits to the diverse fish and wildlife resources of south Florida. The restoration plan as a whole and each of its components will require the Service’s evaluation under the authorities of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, Endangered Species Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act.

        Learn more at EvergladesRestoration.gov

        FloridaFL

        Contact Us:

        Looking for a media contact? Reach out to a regional spokesperson.

        Share this page

        Tweet this page on Twitter or follow @USFWSsoutheast

        Share this page on Facebook or follow USFWSsoutheast.

        LinkedIn

        Share this page on LinkedIn