You might think that as busy and bustling as the Orlando metro area is wildlife might be scarce, but in reality, the city is teeming with wildlife of every kind, playing a vital role in many various local ecosystems. The subtropical climate, abundant wetlands, and proximity to the coast make it a favorite spot for birds, reptiles, amphibians, and a few particular mammals. And let’s not forget about the bugs!

Wading Birds

Birds can be found in abundance in Orlando. The region’s wetlands, lakes, and forests are the habitats and homes of some pretty special feathered species. Perhaps the most iconic of these birds is the Great Egret. Egrets are white, wading birds that can stand over four feet tall. Sandhill Cranes are another majestic wading bird that can be found stalking prey in shallow waters. Sandhill cranes have grey bodies and distinctive red crowns and can be identified from afar by their loud, bugling calls.

Prey Birds

Central Florida is also home to several of America’s most beautiful birds of prey. Bald eagles can often be seen flying high over lakes and woodlands looking for prey such as fish and small mammals. Red-shouldered hawks can be seen perched on tree branches, stalking prey, or also flying out over bodies of water looking for fish to snag.

Mammals

Orlando may be large and heavily populated, but you can still catch sight of the occasional wild mammal. Not just squirrels or bats either. While rare and elusive, the Florida Panther still roams the wilderness of areas in central and south Florida. These graceful creatures have tan backs and creamy white, and yellow eyes. Interestingly, Florida Panthers do not have the ability to roar like a lion or tiger, but instead purr, chirp, growl, or hiss, much like the domesticated cat. The Orlando metro area might also see the presence of a few smaller carnivores like the grey fox and raccoons which are more commonly seen in suburban neighborhoods and parks.

Reptiles and Amphibians

The warm humid subtropics of Orlando is perfect for reptiles and amphibians of all kinds. Of course, there are the American Alligators which are prevalent all throughout the southeastern US, but Orlando also has colorful box turtles, harmless snakes like the Black Racer, and very harmful venomous snakes like the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake and cottonmouths. Local amphibians include species like tree frogs, bullfrogs, little grass frogs, spring peepers, bog frogs, and salamanders.

Bugs

While you may not immediately think of bugs as being part of Floridan wildlife, insects are crucial to the health of all of central Florida’s natural ecosystems. Some of the more stunning insects include invertebrates like butterflies, dragonflies, and beetles. Monarch butterflies in particular are a much-beloved insect as it annually migrates through the region as it journeys from its breeding grounds in the north and its wintering home in Mexico.

If you are moving to the Orlando metro area, finding apartments for rent in Oviedo, and looking into the job market, you will be pleasantly surprised how much wildlife can be seen in and around the metro area. If you enjoy bird sightings, little gooey frogs, and butterfly gardens, this will be as much a paradise for you as it is for all of Orlando’s wildlife.