We’re warm-hearted for South Florida’s cold-blooded natives! This Reptile Awareness Day, join us in celebrating the many native reptiles that call our region home.
DID YOU KNOW: The South Florida Water Management District works year-round to protect, restore and manage natural ecosystems that provide important habitat for native wildlife, including snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians.
A SUBTROPICAL WILDERNESS: The District works closely with local, state, federal and tribal partners to protect and restore America’s Everglades. More than 50 distinct kinds of reptiles inhabit Everglades National Park, from the American crocodile to the green anole.
In fact, the mix of salt and fresh water makes the Everglades the only place on Earth where alligators and crocodiles exist side by side.
SOUTH FLORIDA’S NATIVE REPTILES: As we celebrate Reptile Awareness Day, we are highlighting some of the native reptiles you may spot in South Florida. Remember to always keep a safe distance from wildlife.
💚 American Alligator: The American alligator is one of two crocodilians native to Florida. Many people associate alligators with the color green, but this is a misconception. Adult alligators are primarily dark gray in color with a lighter color underside.
💚 American Crocodile: The lighter skin and narrower, triangular-shaped snout of the American crocodile distinguish it from the American alligator. American crocodiles inhabit coastal areas of South Florida, including Everglades National Park.
💚 Gopher Tortoise: The gopher tortoise is one of five North American tortoise species and is the only tortoise naturally found east of the Mississippi River. These terrestrial turtles, average 9-11 inches in length when fully grown, though they can reach lengths of up to 15 inches.
💚 Eastern Indigo Snake: Reaching lengths of almost 9 feet, the eastern indigo snake is the longest native snake in the United States. This non-venomous snake can be found throughout Florida. Its iridescent blue-black scales glisten in the sunlight and a coral hue tints its chin, throat, and cheeks.
💚 Green Anole: The green anole is a native lizard species. This bright green lizard can actually change its color from brown to green depending on stress and their environment.
GO OUTSIDE AND EXPLORE: This Reptile Awareness Day, we encourage you to go outside and explore South Florida's extraordinary ecosystems. You never know what you might see.