Florida is a state well-known for its wildlife, though some animals are better representatives of the Sunshine State than others.
As such, Florida has eight creatures that are considered the official animals of the state.
Learn all about them below.
STATE ANIMAL
Florida Panther
One of several endangered species in Florida, the Florida Panther was picked as the state’s official animal in 1982 by a vote of students throughout the state, according to the Florida Department of State.
Sometimes called “Catamounts” or “Painters,” these large cats have a long history of folklore in the region, with many early residents persecuting them out of fear.
With it population dwindling, the Florida Panther became a protected species in 1958, and it’s maintained its endangered status since 1967.
STATE REPTILE
American Alligator
An obvious pick, alligators were chosen as the state’s official reptile in 1987, being an “unofficial symbol of the state,” FDOS officials explain.
These creatures roam Florida’s swamps and wetlands, often seen out sunning on logs or banks by the water.
While they used to be on the endangered species list due to illegal hide hunters, alligators have successfully brought their population numbers back up.
Nowadays, they’re under controlled management by state agencies to make sure their numbers don’t dwindle yet again.
Despite their cute appearance, state officials warn residents to avoid feeding or approaching alligators, as they can be incredibly dangerous. For tips on what to do if you encounter one of these beasts, click here.
STATE MARINE MAMMAL
Manatee
Another clear choice, the manatee was selected as Florida’s official marine mammal in 1975.
These huge sea cows can reach up to 14 feet long and weigh over a ton, though their population is at risk.
Manatees were placed on the threatened species list, with many of these animals being killed by human means. The FDOS says that the most-common cause of death for manatees is being struck by boats and barges, with propeller blades often cutting manatees’ hides to ribbons.
However, legislation like the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978 has placed limits on boat speeds to protect these mammals.
The best time to find manatees is in the winter, when they migrate to Florida’s inland waterways to stave off the cold. To find out which spots are the best to view manatees, click here.
STATE SALTWATER MAMMAL
Dolphin/Porpoise
Often found along Florida’s coasts, these aquatic animals became the state’s designated saltwater mammal in 1975.
However, the Legislature at the time was unclear about which animal it actually was, selecting the “porpoise, also commonly known as the dolphin,” the FDOS says.
In Florida, both “porpoise” and “dolphin” are often used to refer to the Bottlenose dolphin, which can be found along Florida’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts. However, the FDOS explains that it’s incorrect to use the words interchangeably.
Regardless, it’s been left up in the air as to whether dolphins or porpoises are considered the state’s official saltwater mammal.
STATE BIRD
Mockingbird
The mockingbird was picked as Florida’s state bird in 1927 — a title it shares with Texas, Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi.
This songbird is appropriately known for its singing, an activity it often practices all night long.
Beyond that, the mockingbird typically eats insects and weed seeds, which can be a huge boon for local people.
STATE SALTWATER FISH
Sailfish
This saltwater fish is especially common in South Florida, which features plenty of warm water that the sailfish thrives in.
According to state officials, the sailfish can reach speeds up to 60 mph and grow to around 7 feet long, weighing up to 45 pounds.
It was officially designated as Florida’s state saltwater fish by the Legislature in 1975.
STATE FRESHWATER FISH
Largemouth Bass
One of the country’s “most-prized gamefish,” the Florida largemouth bass apparently grows unusually large in the Sunshine State, according to the FDOS.
Reaching more than 20 inches long and over 15 pounds, this fish has an “exceptionally large mouth” and a notch in its dorsal fin. Largemouth bass typically live in quiet waters that have plenty of vegetation.
In 1975, it was formally picked as the state’s official freshwater fish.
STATE BUTTERFLY
Zebra Longwing
The Zebra Longwing is found throughout Florida, and it was chosen as the state’s designated butterfly in 1996.
More common in South Florida — particularly the Everglades National Park — this butterfly can be found in hardwood hammocks, thickets and gardens.
Its most distinguishing features are its long black wings with characteristic thin, yellow strips running down them.
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