Three-minute read.
Living in Florida means sharing your space not just with neighbors—but with a wide variety of native wildlife, too. From alligators gliding through retention ponds to sandhill cranes strolling down sidewalks, nature is very much alive here. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident, learning how to peacefully coexist with wildlife is key to keeping both animals and people safe.
Here’s your guide to respecting local wildlife while enjoying all your community has to offer.
Gators, Birds & Beyond: They Live Here Too
Florida’s lush landscapes and warm weather make it home to an incredible array of animals—alligators, raccoons, turtles, manatees, otters, deer, snakes, and hundreds of bird species. While these creatures are fascinating to watch, they’re still wild. That means we need to approach every encounter with caution and respect.
Coexisting in HOA or Community Settings
If you live in an HOA or managed community, there are probably nature preserves, ponds, and green spaces woven right into the neighborhood. These are often designed to support stormwater runoff, but they also double as thriving habitats.
Here’s how to coexist peacefully:
✅ Do:
- Admire from afar. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to watch wildlife without disturbing them.
- Keep pets leashed. Even small backyard ponds can be home to gators or snakes.
- Secure your trash. Raccoons, possums, and even bears can be drawn in by food scraps.
- Teach kids about nature etiquette. Watching is great—touching or feeding is not.
🚫 Don’t:
- Feed any wildlife. It changes their behavior, creates dependency, and can be dangerous.
- Harass or chase animals. Even “harmless” creatures like turtles need space to live safely.
- Approach nests or baby animals. Mom is usually nearby—and very protective.
When to Report Wildlife Activity
While most wildlife encounters are harmless, some situations require action.
Call your HOA or property manager if:
- You see a sick or injured animal in a common area
- You notice someone feeding wild animals
- There’s consistent activity near homes (like burrowing or nesting)
Call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922) if:
- You spot an aggressive or fearless alligator
- Wildlife seems trapped or in danger
- A wild animal is acting erratically (which could signal illness)
Only call 911 if there’s an immediate threat to life or safety.
Simple Ways to Live in Harmony
You don’t need to be a wildlife expert to coexist peacefully. Small habits make a big difference:
- Plant native greenery in your yard to support birds, butterflies, and pollinators.
- Install motion lights to discourage animals from wandering too close at night.
- Join local conservation or clean-up events to protect shared habitats.
- Share what you learn with neighbors to build a more informed, nature-friendly community.
Final Word: Be a Good Neighbor—To Wildlife, Too
Florida’s wildlife isn’t going anywhere—and that’s a good thing. With the right mindset, it’s easy (and rewarding) to live alongside it. Remember: these animals aren’t invading your space—you’ve moved into theirs. Respect, awareness, and a little curiosity go a long way toward peaceful coexistence.
