Meet Our Local Residents
Nestled on the Gulf Coast, Mexico Beach, Florida, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Its diverse ecosystems provide a sanctuary for a variety of species, including sea turtles, birds, and even bears. Whether you’re a nature lover, a birdwatcher, or simply looking to learn more about local wildlife, Mexico Beach offers plenty of opportunities to observe and appreciate these remarkable creatures.
Sea Turtles: Guardians of the Gulf
Nesting Season
Mexico Beach is a crucial nesting ground for several species of sea turtles, including the loggerhead, green, and Kemp’s ridley turtles. The nesting season typically runs from May to October, and during this time, female turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in the soft sand.
Conservation Efforts
Local organizations, such as the Gulf and East Bay Sea Turtle Patrol, work tirelessly to protect these endangered creatures. Volunteers monitor nesting sites, help to ensure hatchlings reach the ocean safely and patrol the beaches daily to discover new nesting sites.
How to Experience
Visitors can walk down the beach to observe and locate the marked sea turtle nesting sites. As well as volunteer with the Gulf and East Bay Sea Turtle Patrol or even Adopt-A-Nest; check out their website for more information. If lucky, you might witness a nesting female or see hatchlings make their first journey to the sea.
Important Sea Turtle Reminders
Please remember to always keep your distance and never touch a hatchling or mother turtle. If you ever encounter a sea turtle at night, please remain quiet and slowly step away. Do not disturb the turtle tracks for they are a path for all the hatchlings to follow.
Birds: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Diverse Avian Species
Mexico Beach is a birdwatcher’s delight, with a variety of habitats that attract numerous bird species. From shorebirds and wading birds to songbirds and raptors, the area is teeming with avian life. Notable species include the great blue heron, snowy egret, brown pelican, and ospreys.
Prime Birdwatching Locations
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park: This park offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially during migration seasons.
Wetlands and Marshes: These areas are ideal for spotting wading birds and other waterfowl.
Beachfront: Shorebirds such as sandpipers, snowy plovers, and least turns can often be seen foraging along the shoreline.
Look Out for Our Locals
Seagulls are a common sight, often seen soaring above the waves or scavenging along the waves or scavenging along the shore. Pelicans, with their distinctive large, beaks, can frequently be spotted diving in the water for fish or hanging out by the canal. Cranes, graceful and elegant, are typically found near marshy areas or wading in the shallow shores. These birds are all residents that add natural beauty and tranquility to Mexico Beach.
Birdwatching Tips
To make the most of your birdwatching experience, bring a pair of binoculars and a field guide to help identify different species. Early morning and late afternoon are typically the best times for birdwatching.
Bears: The Black Bears of the Panhandle
Habitat and Behavior
While it may come as a surprise to some, the Florida black bear is a resident of the Mexico Beach area. These bears primarily inhabit the forests and swamps surrounding the coastal regions. They are generally shy and elusive, preferring to avoid human interaction. Bear sightings are rare, but if you do encounter one, remain calm and back away slowly.
Leave No Trace
Carry out all trash and avoid leaving any items behind that could harm or attract wildlife. All personal items must be removed at the end of your beach day, including chairs, tents, umbrellas, toys, and trash. Also, fill in any holes dug as they are a danger to both humans and wildlife. Any items that are left unattended on our beaches between 7:00 pm and 7:00 am will be disposed of.
Mexico Beach, Florida, is a treasure trove of wildlife, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and observe some of the Gulf Coast’s most fascinating creatures. From the ancient sea turtles nesting on its shores to the diverse bird species soaring overhead and the elusive black bears roaming its forests, Mexico Beach is a testament to the region’s rich biodiversity. By embracing responsible ecotourism practices, we can help ensure that these incredible species continue to thrive for generations to come. So, pack your binoculars, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure in Mexico Beach.
Helpful Links: Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation, Gulf and East Bay Turtle Patrol, Leave No Trace
