Key West Wildlife: Discover Local Species and Habitats

---

Key West is teeming with a diverse range of wildlife, including birds of prey, dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, manatees, fish, starfish, and more! 

☆ The best place to see wildlife in Key West depends on your abilities and time frame. For the most immersive experience, consider joining eco-tours in Key West, particularly a snorkeling trip! Keep in mind that wind and weather can affect visibility and conditions in the water, so be sure to check the weather forecast. (When winds exceed 15 mph, underwater visibility typically decreases, and wave height increases.) On such days, your captain may choose an alternative snorkeling location to find better conditions; for example, a snorkel trip to the barrier reef is unlikely in heavy winds. 

☆ If snorkeling in Key West isn't your thing or you aren't a confident swimmer, a trip to the Key West Aquarium is a fantastic option! Although it's a small aquarium, it offers plenty of great experiences, including a touch tank where you can hold a live conch, horseshoe crab, or sea cucumber, plus the excitement of shark feeding! 

If you have a rental car, drive up the Keys to visit the sea turtle hospital to check out the rescued sea turtles or head to the Dolphin Research Center, where you can learn about or even swim with dolphins! 

☆ The Key West Butterfly Conservatory is another great place to immerse yourself in wildlife. In addition to an abundance of butterflies, there are also two resident flamingos! You can even upgrade to a special flamingo meet! 

☆ Manatees are often spotted in the marinas, passing through in search of fresh water as boat crews clean after trips. Anytime you’re walking around the seaport, keep an eye out for the "sea potatoes"! (Local sightings can be found at Hurricane Hole Marina and Garrison Bight near Mac's Place restaurant.) 

☆ My favorite way to see wildlife is kayaking; it offers a calm, quiet, up-close encounter with wildlife at your own pace. Geiger Key has great options for paddling off the beaten path, as well as excellent spots in Key West.