The Florida Wildlife Federation’s Work

Since 1936, we have worked to protect Florida’s waters, wildlife, and wild spaces. From restoring iconic rivers and conserving critical habitats to advocating for wildlife crossings and responsible land management, our efforts ensure Florida’s wild legacy endures for the benefit of both nature and people.

Wildlife

Florida panther, manatees, and Florida black bears are just a few examples of the wonderful wildlife that call our state home. But the challenges of an ever-growing human population, development, pollution and warming temperatures must be addressed if we are to save them.

Water

Water, both fresh and salt, are the life-blood of Florida. From the internally renown Everglades to the St. Johns and Apalachicola Rivers, our waterways are emblematic and essential to both humans and wildlife. FWF has advocated and litigated for the reduction of pollution and the proper management of this precious resource.

Wild Spaces

FWF has been the leader in supporting Florida’s land conservation efforts. As one of the nation’s fastest growing states, this growth puts extreme pressure on our natural resources. Permanently protecting habitat, promoting landscape connectivity, and defending access to public lands are essential to safeguard wild Florida.

We take a comprehensive approach to conservation: protecting what makes Florida wild, from the ecosystems that shape our landscapes to the species that call them home. We fight to restore and protect vital waterways, defend iconic and imperiled species, and promote human-wildlife coexistence. Our land conservation efforts and advocacy are key to preserving the natural lands that sustain Florida’s biodiversity. Whether through science-based advocacy, public education, or legal action, our work ensures that wild Florida endures.

Florida Panther

The Florida Panther (Puma concolor couguar) is one of the most endangered mammals in the U.S. We work to protect its habitat, expand wildlife corridors, and advocate for safe crossings to reduce vehicle mortality and ensure this remarkable species survives.

Florida Black Bear

The Florida black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus) is the state’s only bear species. With development fragmenting habitat and increasing encounters, we promote coexistence strategies and safeguard wild lands.

Florida Manatee

The Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus), an iconic marine mammal, relies on clean water and healthy habitats for survival. We advocate for strong water quality standards and habitat conservation to protect these gentle giants.

Florida Scrub-Jay

The Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens), Florida’s only endemic bird, depends on rare, fire-maintained scrub habitat. We work to protect these fragile ecosystems to secure a future for species and other scrub-dependent wildlife.

Gopher Tortoise

The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) digs its burrows that provide shelter for more than 350 other species. We protect tortoise habitat while raising awareness through conservation advocacy and educational signs.

Gardening in Florida

The Florida Wildlife Federation strives to educate others about how they can individually take part in saving the state and the planet in their own backyard.

Ocklawaha

For more than 50 years, we’ve been dedicated to the restoration of the Ocklawaha River, a vital waterway connecting the St. Johns River and Silver Springs.

Apalachicola

Once home to 90% of Florida’s wild oysters, the Apalachicola River and Bay are now threatened by pollution, harmful water management, and oil drilling. We’re fighting to protect this globally significant and culturally vital ecosystem.

Land Conservation

The Florida Wildlife Federation has been the leader in supporting state land conservation efforts since the 1960s.

Wildlife Crossings

Wildlife crossings reconnect Florida’s fragmented landscapes and improve safety for wildlife and people. We work statewide to advance these solutions and ensure native species can move safely between critical habitats.

Now more than ever, Florida needs your help

Florida is blessed with the Everglades, beaches, springs, rivers, forests and wonderful wildlife. Help us keep these natural treasures.

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