Sarasota County Wildlife

Sarasota County provides critical habitat for many imperiled native species. Protection and management of natural areas ensures these habitats will support future generations of wildlife as well as people.

Species you might encounter in Sarasota’s natural areas: FLORIDA SCRUB-JAYS

Sarasota County features diverse natural communities, such as native oak scrub with sandy, dry soil. These areas provide critical habitat for the endangered Florida scrub-jay, the state’s only endemic bird.

BALD EAGLES

State and federally protected bald eagles are found throughout the state year-round with nesting season occurring from Oct. 1 - May 15.

WEST INDIAN MANATEES

The warm waters of Sarasota County’s bays, rivers and creeks provide protected sites for the endangered West Indian manatee.

GOPHER TORTOISES

Gopher tortoises can be found throughout much of Florida. Considered to be a keystone species, their burrows provide refuge for more than 350 other animal species, including several imperiled species.

FLORIDA BOBCATS

Bobcats are about twice the size of house cats, and are the most common wild feline in Florida. Home territory is one-to-five square miles, and as development increases, bobcats are becoming more comfortable in urban areas. These beautiful cats are quite stealthy, and are more common than people realize.