Wildlife & Nature in Martin County, Florida

Experience the Extraordinary Wild Side of Martin County

Situated within an ecological crossroads known as the temperate- tropical ecotone, Martin County offers a unique opportunity to see an amazing diversity of wildlife. Here you’ll find tropical species like dolphins, manatees, and roseate spoonbills alongside temperate species such as tortoises, otters, and woodpeckers. The exceptional variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, and marine life all in one place offers wildlife sightings that are as thrilling as they are unforgettable.

Protecting our Wildlife with Leave No Trace

Our wildlife has a few things they would like to thank you for doing when you venture into the wild lands and waters of Martin County.

Skipping the photo if it means getting to close and keeping your distance. (Pro-tip: If you have binoculars- don’t forget them!)

Keeping your dog on a leash in parks and preserves and not letting them approach wildlife. (Pro-tip: Make your dog an official BARK Ranger and they can sport a cool new tag and bandana).

And never feeding any wildlife- since it is bad for their health and mostly…they are wild and want to stay that way!

Learn more about how you can help protect wildlife with Leave No Trace!

Nature Centers in Martin County

Looking for a closer view or a family-friendly wildlife adventure? Visit any one of Martin County’s nature centers to explore native wildlife, enjoy hands-on learning, and experience Florida’s natural beauty up close.

2025 Sea Turtle Season

Sea turtle nesting season may be winding down here in Martin County but it is still important to follow sea turtle -friendly habits. Hatchlings are still emerging and in fact, many sea turtles continue to nest after the season is officially over at the end of October.

Take all trash with you, make sure to take all toys or beach furniture off the beach at the end of the day
When you leave the beach make sure to knock down any sand castles and fill in any holes
Any light on the beach, from beach front rooms to flashlights, scare away and deter sea turtles from nesting. Dim lights, close curtains and refrain from using any lights on the beach at night.

2025 Season Update

WILDLIFE BUCKETLIST

You can experience wildlife in Martin County in many ways. Whether you are out venturing on your own, taking a guided hike with Explore Natural Martin, participating in an ecotour with a local vendor, or visiting a nature center, there are so many species that you may encounter. Below are some examples of our remarkable species that may be on your wildlife bucket list.

GOPHER TORTOISE

This unique land dwelling and long-lived reptile makes it’s home in forests, pastures and yards in large underground burrows. They forage on low growing plants and are known as keystone species! They are also a state threatened species and moving or handling them can be illegal in Florida.

FUN FACT: Gopher tortoises can live up to 60 years in the wild and up to 90 years in captivity!

WHERE TO SEE A GOPHER TORTOISE : You can learn more about gopher tortoises and see one up close and personal at the Hobe Sound Nature Center. You can often see them in the wild in a variety of County parks and preserves and State Parks, so look out for them either near their burrows or out and about grazing. Click here to learn more about viewing gopher tortoises.

LINK TO BIO HERE

MARSH RABBIT

The marsh rabbit is a small, secretive rabbit native to Florida’s wetlands, often found in marshes, mangroves, and wet prairies. Unlike other rabbits, it is an excellent swimmer and can even take to the water to escape predators. Marsh rabbits feed on grasses, sedges, and aquatic plants, playing an important role in wetland ecosystems.

FUN FACT: Marsh rabbits can swim underwater for short distances to escape danger and can be seen more often during dawn and dusk.

WHERE TO SEE A MARSH RABBIT: If you’re hoping to spot marsh rabbits in Martin County, several parks and preserves offer ideal habitats for these elusive, semi-aquatic mammals. Marsh rabbits thrive in freshwater marshes, wet prairies, and mangrove-fringed environments—perfectly suited to the diverse ecosystems found in the area. Some options are Atlantic Ridge Preserve State Park, Kiplinger Preserve, Eastern edge of Seabranch Preserve State Park, Hawks Hammock Preserve and Haney Creek Preserve.

LINK TO BIO HERE

FLORIDA MANATEE

These native marine mammals, know as “sea cows”, grow up to 10-13 ft. long and spend up to eight hours a day grazing on marine and freshwater vegetation. Manatees travel around the states waterways to find food, mates and places to rest and can be found in groups during the winter months in warm water areas. Manatees are a threatened species and are protected under the Federal Endangered Species Act, the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act.

FUN FACT: Manatees can reach speeds up to 15 mph in short bursts!

WHERE TO SEE A MANATEE: Manatees live in the Indian River Lagoon and you can visit any one of our beautiful Martin County parks or preserves along the lagoon to potentially catch a glimpse of one. Some great places to visit along the water are Indian Riverside Park, Twin Rivers Park, Joe’s River Park, Peck Lake Park, and Sandsprit Park. You can read about manatee viewing guidelines here.

LINK TO BIO HERE

GREAT BLUE HERON

The great blue heron is Florida’s largest heron, easily recognized by its long legs, S-shaped neck, and striking blue-gray plumage. Common in wetlands, rivers, and coastal areas, it hunts patiently for fish, frogs, and small aquatic creatures. These majestic birds are often seen standing silently along the water’s edge, a living symbol of Florida’s rich wetland ecosystems. Click here to learn more about birding in Martin County.

FUN FACT: Despite their large size, great blue herons can fly silently and gracefully, with a wingspan of up to 6 feet.

WHERE TO SEE A GREAT BLUE HERON: You can often find the Great blue heron along the shorelines of the Indian River Lagoon and they can also be found in wetlands or rivers throughout the County. Some parks and preserves in Martin County you may find them are: Kitching Creek Preserve, Savannas Preserve State Park, Peck Lake Park, or Nine-Gems Preserve.