In addition to being an absolute paradise for beach lovers, Anna Maria Island is also a haven for a number of different wildlife species who call the island (and its waters) home. Made up of different habitats, such as sandy beaches, lush mangroves, and gulf waters, wildlife enthusiasts will love catching a glimpse of the island's different species.
Let's take a closer look at the different animals you might sneak a peek at during your stay and which tours will get you up close and personal with the local flora and fauna.
Marine Wildlife on Anna Maria Island
Dolphins
Photo Credit: BlueBarronPhoto
Playful bottlenose dolphins are a surprisingly common sight in the island's waters, often putting on a show as they dive through the island's surrounding waters. Whether you spot them from the shore or while out on a boat or dolphin tour, seeing these guys in action is always a thrill.
Manatees
Photo Credit: Kunchit prompheat
These gentle giants, sometimes affectionately called "sea cows," are known for floating around, moving very little. You can often see them in the warmer, shallow waters around the island, especially when they come close to the shore to feed. Watching a manatee glide in the wild is an unforgettable experience!
Photo Credit: Kavindu Induranga
During the summer, the beaches of Anna Maria Island become a nesting ground for sea turtles, a truly magical sight. The most common visitors are the loggerhead turtles, and witnessing one of these ancient creatures lay eggs under the moonlight is an enchanting experience. The island's conservation efforts play a crucial role in protecting these turtles and their nests, making it even more special. Remember, if you come across a turtle nest, it's important not to touch or disrupt it!
Stingrays
Photo Credit: JENG BO YUAN
If you venture into the shallow waters from April to October, you might also come across stingrays hiding beneath the sand on the seafloor. These flat, pancake-like creatures are fascinating to watch, especially when they seem to "fly" through the water - try to avoid stepping on them, as some of the stingray species can (and will!) sting you.
Sharks
Photo Credit: emherbert
Don't worry! The sharks you might see here are typically smaller, harmless types like the blacktip, black nose, lemon, spinner, or bonnethead shark. Still, it's always thrilling to be graced with their presence! You might also spot the elusive hammerhead shark!
Fish
Photo Credit: Mark Winfrey
For those who love fishing or just enjoy watching the diverse marine life, you might spot grouper and mackerel in the deeper waters around the island. Grouper, with their stout bodies and large mouths, are a favorite catch among anglers and one of AMI's favorite species to showcase at the myriad seafood restaurants. There are plenty of other different Florida fish species, including:
- Tarpon
- Snapper
- Snook
- Flounder
Birdlife on Anna Maria Island
Pelicans
Photo Credit: Michael Rolands
You'll likely spot the iconic brown pelican, a large bird with a wingspan of up to 84 inches! They are often seen on docks gulping down a fish or two. Watching these birds swallow their prey is always a treat.
Osprey
Photo Credit: Edward Monigan IV
Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic osprey, too. Unlike hawks or eagles, these birds of prey feed exclusively on fish, and it's a real treat to watch them swoop down and snatch one right out of the water.
Egrets
Photo Credit: Stephen B. Goodwin
You'll also see plenty of egrets and herons. These tall, graceful birds are often found wading through shallow waters on the hunt for their next meal. Their slow, deliberate movements make them easy to spot and photograph.
Roseate Spoonbill
Photo Credit: Brian Lasenby
With its striking pink feathers and unique spoon-shaped bill, this bird is sure to catch your eye. If you like Flamingos, head to Robinson Preserve to check out their (unrelated) cousin. Roseate Spoonbills are pink due to their diet of different crustaceans.
Sandpiper
Photo Credit: Cheri Alguire
Sandpipers are a common sight on the island's beaches. These adorable little guys are often seen scurrying along the shoreline in small groups. Their quick, darting movements and soft peeps make them easy to spot as they search for food in the sand.
Land Animals on Anna Maria Island
Tortoise
Photo Credit: Ben McMurtray
In the quieter, more wooded parts of the island, keep an eye out for the gopher tortoise. These slow-moving reptiles are fascinating to watch as they go about their business. Gopher tortoises dig burrows that provide shelter for other animals, making them a key species on the island.
Rabbits
Photo Credit: Lisa Crawford
If you're in the marshy areas of the island, you might spot marsh rabbits. These small, shy rabbits are usually seen at dawn or dusk, quietly foraging in the grass. They're a reminder of the quieter, more secretive wildlife that calls Anna Maria Island home.
Best Places to See Wildlife on and Around Anna Maria Island
Neal Preserve
Photo Credit: Carolyn Bartlett
Neal Preserve is a hidden gem for nature lovers. This 120-acre preserve is just a short drive from Anna Maria Island and offers a mix of mangrove forests, salt marshes, and upland habitats. As you walk the trails and boardwalks, you'll have the chance to spot various birds, including herons, egrets, and maybe even a roseate spoonbill.
Robinson Preserve
Photo Credit: Donna Bollenbach
The 600+ acre Robinson Preserve features a wide array of habitats, from mangroves to coastal wetlands. It's a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with plenty of opportunities to see ospreys, pelicans, and sandpipers. The preserve also offers kayaking trails, giving you a unique perspective on the local marine life as you paddle through the calm waters.
Bean Point
Photo Credit: Rick Schwartz via Flickr CC2.0
Bean Point, located at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, is a beautiful and somewhat secluded spot. Here, you might spot dolphins playing in the surf, seabirds like sandpipers along the shore, and maybe even a manatee in the distance. Bean Point is also a great place to watch the sunset!
Top Tours to Explore the Island's Wild Side
To really get up close and personal with Anna Maria Island's wildlife, there are plenty of tours and activities available.
Dolphin and manatee kayak tours are a must if you want to see these incredible animals up close. These boat tours often come with knowledgeable guides who can tell you all about the wildlife you're seeing, including other marine species in addition to manatees or dolphins.
For bird enthusiasts, birdwatching tours take you to some of the island's best spots for spotting different species. Most companies provide binoculars, so you can get a glimpse of those extra elusive creatures!
Please note that an ethical tour will not disrupt the animals in their natural habitat, nor will they lure the animals close to the boats with food.
Stay on Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island isn't just about beautiful beaches and sunsets. It's also a place where wildlife thrives. Whether you're watching dolphins play, spotting a colorful bird, or just enjoying the sight of a manatee floating along, there's always something amazing to see.
Why not make your next vacation an eco adventure? Get in touch with us at Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals to book your accommodation. We'll help you discover the best places to spot the wildlife of Anna Maria Island.
