Is it Okay to Feed Wild Animals?

We live in the beautiful state of Florida; abundant beaches, plants & wildlife. As we continue to develop open land, we sometimes interfere with wild animals native environments and invite their curiosity into ours.

If you encounter a wild animal in Florida, the simple answer is: 

Never Feed The Wildlife

Feeding wild animals can create a dependency on human feeding or reduce the animal’s fear of humans which may result in conflicts or the need for the animal to be removed or even killed in order to protect public safety.

In some cases, feeding wildlife is actually illegal in Florida.

As listed on myfwc.com, species with rules related to feeding include bears, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, pelicans, alligators, crocodiles, sandhill cranes, and wild monkeys.

How to secure your home against unwanted intruders:

What to Do if You Find Injured Animals in Florida

Do not pick up animals or remove them from their natural environment.

If you feel you must take immediate action to save an animal’s life, take extreme caution to protect yourself, wear appropriate protective gear & try to avoid touching the injured animals directly.  

If you find an injured or orphaned animal, you should report it to the closest Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Regional Office or an FWC-licensed wildlife rehabilitator in your area.

Below you will find a listing of Regional Offices and contact info.

Keep in Mind:

You may find wild baby animals outside during spring. This is not to raise alarm, as many baby animals are just entering the world and learning to fend for themselves. Wild baby animals might appear in need or hungry, but unless the animal is truly orphaned or injured, there is no need to intervene.

Some Ducklings are just Ugly, not injured!

Here are a few signs that a wild animal needs your help

If you encounter an animal with the warnings below, please contact your F.W.C. office to report the issues:

  • Injured animal presented by cat or dog
  • Evidence of bleeding or broken bones
  • Featherless or nearly featherless shivering birds on the ground

Best Kayak Trails in Florida

Florida is the perfect location for year-round canoeing & kayaking thru the numerous waterways across our state.

Jupiter, Florida, USA inlet and light house.

We’re home to 58 designated paddling trails as well as the the goliath 1,515-mile Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, known as The CT, which starts at Big Lagoon State Park near Pensacola, extends around the entire peninsula of Florida and the Keys, and then ends at Fort Clinch State Park near the Georgia border!

If you’re daring enough for that feat, check out Mike Ruso’s guide to conquering The CT at ThruPaddlingFlorida.com.

Otherwise, our guide below will help you find a local water trail to take your own floatation device or rent a kayak at the park.

Click Here to view the 32 segments of waterways and launch points.

Source: FloridaPaddlingTrails.com

Be mindful of these General Safety Tips when embarking on your journey:

  • Always wear a personal floatation device when on the water.
  • Have a plan and a Back-Up Plan.  Leave that plan with someone on shore.
  • Bring a first aid kit, plenty of water and snacks.
  • Check the condition of your gear before departure.
  • Wear water shoes & quick dry clothing if possible