Even though many people will boast about Anna Maria Island’s beautiful waters and soft sands, there is so much more to the area that surrounds you during a vacation here.
Rich with wildlife and opportunities to see the animals that inhabit the island, you’ll be amazed to see some of the creatures that are right under your nose. So head out from your Anna Maria Island lodging and get into the great outdoors to see what’s there. All you have to do is know what you’re looking for and where to look and you’re sure to spot some of the area’s animals.
Marine Life
With so much water in the gulf and also the marshes that are found throughout Anna Maria Island, you won’t be surprised to find those marine creatures are some of the most commonly spotted animals in the area.
Known as a fantastic fishing spot, it’s clear that you can expect to see lots of different types of fish if you look into the waters in and around Anna Maria Island- and you don’t have to go far. Any waters near many Anna Maria Island houses for rent will give you an opportunity to spot some of these fish. Keep your eyes out for mackerel, snook, trout, amberjack, redfish, snapper, grouper, cobia, mahi, and more. You may even be lucky enough to see a wide range of shark species if you head out into deeper waters.
On top of the fish species you can find around Anna Maria Island, you’ll also have the opportunity to see some dolphins playing in the Gulf waters, jellyfish, sea turtles, stingrays, and other marine animals. Sometimes even stingrays, a gopher tortoise, or manatees can be seen as well.
Your best chance to spot a dolphin or even some whales possibly is by taking a tour out into some of the deeper waters. Here, you’ll be able to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
Manatees are also one of the creatures you can keep on the lookout for. They tend to hang out in the warmer shallower waters in the harbor—sometimes where they think they can get a sip of fresh cool water from a hose. This endangered species is beloved in Anna Maria Island and in Florida as a whole.
Bird Watching
Anna Maria Island can be known as a bird watchers paradise. It’s not just because of the wonderful weather or the sandy beaches, it’s because the island is situated at a major migration point as well as a nesting territory for many different types of land and sea birds. Keep your eyes peeled for herons, sandpipers, osprey, vultures, eagles, storks, egrets, pelicans, and more.
Just head to a quiet beach and you’ll be able to spot just a few of the many species of birds. Some of the best locations include the Coquina Beach Baywalk and Bean Point.
Other Wildlife
Although most of the wildlife on Anna Maria Island can be found in the water and in the air, there are some other animals you may happen to see during your day to day travels around the island. Small lizards are very common to see skirting around the edges of buildings and seeking out some cool and shady areas. Some people have also reported seeing armadillo wandering the island, and snakes and raccoons are also common to see hanging around.
Be ready to explore all the island has to offer in the way of wildlife, from turtles nesting up on shore to birds sailing through the open blue skies.