Unique to the Keys are the endangered Key deer, a sub-species of white-tailed deer. They're a rare sight, mainly residing between Sugarloaf and Bahia Honda Keys. Drivers should be cautious, especially around Big Pine and No Name Keys, as deer tend to venture out at night - they also swim between the islands. By law, feeding them is prohibited.
At the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine and No Name Keys, projects are in place to protect their habitat and other endangered species. It's thought that Key deer population reached a low of 27 in 1957 but is now up to 800 today.
Finding Nemo Delve beneath the surface of the Keys' crystal blue waters and you'll discover Nemo's world. Key Largo's John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the USA's first underwater park with 75 square miles of living coral reef, (part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary) and an array of sea creatures to discover for the snorkeller and diver.
The park also has a 30,000-gallon aquarium with coral and tropical fish for those who want to stay on dry land. Alternatively, book a glass-bottomed boat tour and enjoy the sights of the colourful wildlife that teems beneath. Another popular diving spot is Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary; trips to the sanctuary must be arranged in advance. More info here.
Endangered speciesThe Florida Keys Wildlife and Environmental Area is home to around 30 endangered animal species, many unique to the Keys. Among them are the Key Largo woodrat, Eastern indigo snake and Key Largo cotton mouse. Endangered habitats include the Lower Keys marsh rabbit and high tropical hardwood hammock.
Also in scarcity is the American crocodile, which, in the USA, only resides in south Florida and the Keys. Although not currently open to the public (there are plans for a viewing platform), the Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Key Largo protects crocs and other wildlife.
You might also spot manatee, osprey, iguana and even street-roaming Key West chickens. Other attractions include Key Largo's Wild Bird Rehabilitation Centre and the 84 protected species in Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. More info here.
The writer travelled to the Keys with Virgin Holidays. For more information on the Florida Keys, please visit www.fla-keys.co.uk.
