Where to See Wildlife in Florida

When people think about visiting Florida, theyallowed. There is also hunting allowed in the refuge
often think of visiting the beaches and themefor white tailed deer, feral pig and sambar deer.
parks that this state is well known for. There is aThose who want to hunt in the refuge must have
place, however, where people can enjoy thea valid hunting license.
peace and serenity of the Florida wildlife withoutSt. George Island is one of the most unique parts
having to pay to see it with a crowd of people.of Florida because it is a sparsely occupied island
There are many undiscovered parts of Florida andthat is off of the coast of the Florida Panhandle
St. George Island is one of them.and has not been open to the public until 1980.
St. George Island State Park boasts a wildlife thatUnlike other parts of Florida that feature crowded
includes plants and animals. Some of the naturalbeaches and humid weather, St. George Island
beauty that is seen on St. George Island includesfeatures a hot but dry climate and no crowds.
tidal marsh, freshwater ponds and streams, dunesThere are no high rises on the island permitted
and many different pine communities. Some ofand only 1000 permanent residents live on the
the creatures that you can see include those thatisland that also features white sand beaches,
are endangered species but are protected on theoyster bars and shopping. There are rental
island. Sea turtles, indigo snakes, bald eagles andproperties available for those who want to stay
gopher tortoises are all part of the sanctuary onon the island as well as camping in the refuge.
the island.There is also a motel on the island for those who
St. Vincent Wildlife Refuge is located off of St.are seeking a short term stay at St. George.
George Island. There is fishing allowed in theThose who want to enjoy the warm, sunny
refuge but only in the refuge lakes. Surf fishing isweather of Florida but also enjoy nature will find
also allowed all year round, but not where anySt. George Island and the St. Vincent Wildlife
birds are located. Before fishing in the refuge, aRefuge to be the ideal respite from the hectic
person must check to see if this is nesting seasonnature of every day life.
for the bald eagles, at which time fishing is not