Introduction

With its southern tip jutting into the tropical Gulf of Mexico and its northern end part of mainland North America, Florida is home to, or is visited by, an incredible variety and number of bird species. From dry scrubland and pine forests to lush mangroves and coastal shores, the state supports birdlife for resident breeders, seasonal visitors, as well as those passing through on migration to and from South America and Canada. This guide is a distillation of the most common birds seen here, but also includes a few rarities that can only be found in Florida within the United States.