Gopher tortoise
Meet a keystone species whose burrow can provide shelter for hundreds of other Florida animals.
Wild Florida
A field guide for curious young naturalists.
Meet Florida wildlife and explore nature inspired children’s resources.
Wildlife and wonder
Please be a courteous naturalist!
The sandy area around a gopher tortoise burrow is called an apron. Gopher tortoise mamas lay their eggs in the apron because the Florida sun warms the sand for incubation. As you explore, be sure to respect their home by keeping your distance and keep baby gopher tortoises safe.
Wildlife to discover
Meet the neighbors who make wild Florida feel alive.
Eastern cottontail rabbit
Look for this familiar Florida neighbor near brushy edges, open fields, and backyard cover.
Beautyberry
Clusters of bright berries add color to Florida landscapes and provide food for birds and wildlife.
Raccoon neighbors
Trail cameras reveal curious nighttime visitors and offer a fun way to notice wildlife activity.
Explore by habitat
Follow the trail through Florida.
Each habitat offers new textures, sounds, plants, and animals to discover.
Florida scrub
Sandy paths, hardy plants, and wildlife adapted to a bright, open landscape.
Wetlands and waterways
Freshwater places where children can learn how water connects plants, animals, and people.
Nature Coast discoveries
Wild places, seasonal changes, and outdoor experiences found along Florida's Nature Coast.
Activities and learning
Florida resources for families and classrooms.
Preview printable activities, coloring pages, and hurricane safety guides created to extend learning beyond the story.
For families and classrooms
Hurricane Safety
Gentle, practical printables that help children and families prepare for a storm and stay safe afterward.
Printable PDF guidesFamily friendly
Coloring and creativity
Florida Wildlife Coloring Pages
Coloring pages from photos featuring the flora and fauna of Florida’s Nature Coast and the world of Shelter From the Storm.
Printable PDF coloring pagesAll young artists
Outdoor activities
Florida Nature Activities
Hands-on activities that invite young explorers to notice the details, tracks, plants, and wildlife around them.
Printable PDF activitiesFamily friendly
Care for wild Florida
Trusted organizations can help families turn curiosity into responsible exploration and conservation.
Conserve and protect
Keep learning beyond the story.
These external resources provide additional ways to explore Florida's environment, parks, and outdoor education programs.
Bring wild Florida closer
Invite story, wonder, and nature into the day.
Connect about author visits, readings, events, or general questions.