Wildlife Watching
Sarasota is home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife. The local mosaic of interconnected habitats is as biologically productive as some of the world’s most celebrated rain forests. The area’s estuaries, oyster and hardbottom reefs, seagrass beds, salt marshes, wetlands, tidal creeks, and uplands support more than 1,400 different species, making it a great spot for watching wildlife above and below the water. Many of the nature preserves, parks, and beaches in Sarasota and Manatee counties offer great spots to view wildlife.
Responsible Wildlife Viewing
Sarasota Bay, the Gulf beaches, and numerous preserves and inland areas provide critical habitat for endangered wildlife year round. Being aware and respectful of these endangered species and their activities is critical for their health and safety. You can help!
Nesting Turtles and Birds
Turtle nesting season: May 1 - October 31 Bird nesting season: Mid-February - August 31
Here is what you can do to protect these creatures:
- Pick up litter, fill in holes, and never leave furniture or debris laying on the beach
- Keep pets off the beach, keep cats inside
- Respect posted nesting areas
- Turn off lights visible on turtle nesting beaches or shield the lights from the beach
- If you find disoriented hatchlings away from the sea or to report violations call 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).
Read more about sea turtles and birds.
Dolphins and Manatees
There are many dolphins and manatees that live in and around Sarasota Bay. Both of these animals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act and/or the Endangered Species Act, which means it is illegal to harass, feed, pet or otherwise interfere with their natural behavior. Please stay at least 50 yards away from these animals at all times. If you see a manatee or dolphin in distress, call Mote 941-988-0212.
For more information about dolphins, visit the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program.
Birding Hot Spots
Birding is one of the most popular outdoor activities in the United States. Sarasota County and Manatee County offer great birding locations. If you see a bird distress, call Save Our Seabirds 941-388-3010.
Track Your Sightings & Contribute to Science!
Observations from citizens are helping scientists track trends and sightings of different kinds of wildlife. As you're exploring, consider recording what you see to help researchers protect these wonderful animals.
- iNaturalist - Record encounters, crowdsource identifications, find a citizen science project, run a bioblitz
- eBird - Record sightings, plan trips, find birds, track your lists, explore range maps and bird migration
- Report Sightings to FL Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- Audubon Jay Watch (FL)
- Audubon Project Feeder Watch (U.S. and Canada)
- Audubon Eagle Watch (Global)
Gulf Coast Heritage Trail
The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program was at the forefront of recognizing the economic value of linking and promoting Sarasota Bay’s cultural, historical, and environmental heritage.
The Gulf Coast Heritage Trail was the culmination of this recognition and was the first regional eco-heritage based tourism trail program within the state of Florida.
Sarasota Bay Blueways Guide
This guide is designed to help you enjoy and learn about the Sarasota Bay area by locating main channels, seagrasses, artificial reefs, aquatic preserves, canoeing and wildlife viewing areas, boat ramps, marinas, restaurants, and fishing piers. Also included is information on bay habitats and wildlife, popular sport fish, boating safety, and a resource directory.