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In honor of Valentine’s Day, we’re celebrating love in the wild by highlighting some of Florida’s most romantically devoted bird species. These remarkable feathered friends show us love isn’t just for humans; forming lifelong bonds, working together to raise young and maintain their family units. Their partnerships are a testament to the power of collaboration and devotion in nature. 

Wood Storks. Photo by Federico Acevedo

From synchronized courtship dances to shared parenting duties, these birds show us that love takes many forms. Whether soaring together through the skies or building nests in Florida’s diverse landscapes, these avian couples exemplify teamwork and resilience. Let’s dive into the lives of Florida’s “love birds” and the incredible bonds they share! 

Sandhill Cranes. Photo by Jen Goellnitz
Sandhill Cranes. Photo by Michayla Marie

A Dance of Devotion:

Sandhill Cranes

Sandhill cranes are among nature’s most graceful romantics, renowned for their elaborate courtship displays. Their synchronized dances, complete with bows, leaps, and wing flutters, are a spectacle of love and commitment. Once bonded, these cranes return annually to the same nesting areas in Florida’s prairies and wetlands. Their breeding season typically begins in December and can extend into April, depending on the region. Both parents share responsibilities, from building nests to raising chicks, creating a harmonious partnership that lasts a lifetime. 

A Powerful Pair:

Bald Eagles

Bald eagles exemplify loyalty and strength in their lifelong pairings. These iconic raptors construct massive nests, or eyries, which they reuse and expand over the years—sometimes reaching over 10 feet in diameter! Breeding season in Florida usually begins as early as October, with eggs laid between December and January. Known for their striking aerial courtship displays, bald eagles often raise multiple generations of eaglets in the same location. Their enduring bond ensures that both partners contribute to hunting, nesting, and protecting their young. 

Bald Eagles. Photo by Marnee Jill
Bald Eagles. Photo by Robyn Cowlan
Ospreys. Photo by Lisa Scott
Osprey. Photo by Joshua Rubin

Fishing Partners:

Ospreys

Ospreys, often spotted near Florida’s waterways, are highly specialized fishers and skilled builders. A bonded pair works tirelessly to construct their nest—usually on tall structures near water—using branches, moss, and other materials. These nests are often reused and expanded over the years, becoming sturdier and larger with each breeding season. Breeding season for ospreys in Florida typically begins in December, with nesting activity peaking between February and March. They are attentive parents, with one partner guarding the nest while the other hunts. Ospreys’ cooperative nature and impressive hunting prowess make them a fascinating species to observe in action. 

Wetland Soulmates:

Wood Storks

Wood storks, often found in Florida’s wetlands, are another species that often mate for life. These wading birds work together to gather materials for their nests and raise their chicks in large colonies. In Florida, their breeding season is closely tied to water levels and usually begins in December, continuing through JuneWood storks are specialized feeders, relying on a unique technique called tactile foraging to catch prey in shallow waters. Their strong partnership ensures their chicks are well-fed and protected, even in fluctuating wetland conditions. 

Wood Storks. Photo by Federico Acevedo
Wood Storks. Photo by Federico Acevedo
Eastern Bluebirds. Photo by Doug Greenberg
Eastern Bluebird. Photo by Matt Cuda

Colorful Companions:

Eastern Bluebirds

Eastern bluebirds are a delightful sight in Florida’s open fields and meadows, where they often find their mates. These vibrantly colored songbirds are diligent parents, raising multiple broods each season. Breeding season typically begins in late February or early March and can extend through summer. Male bluebirds charm their mates with soft songs and by showcasing potential nesting sites. Once paired, they share duties like incubating eggs and feeding fledglings, making their bright blue presence a symbol of love and teamwork in the wild. 

Show Some Love to Florida’s Love Birds

Florida’s wildlife, like these love birds, depend on healthy habitats to thrive. Here’s a few ways you can show some love and help support their continued success: 

  • Advocating for the preservation of wetlands and other habitats where they nest. 
  • Avoiding the use of harmful pesticides at home and near nesting sites. 

Did You Know? Some Sandhill Cranes have been known to stay with their partners for over 20 years! 

Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at the Florida Wildlife Federation! Let’s keep Florida’s wildlife flourishing with love and care. 

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