Florida’s diverse ecosystem is like so many rich habitats home to a plethora of insects, poisonous plants and venomous animals. Enjoy the great outdoors but be mindful and think safety whenever you venture into the Real Florida^SM. Below are links to the Florida Poison Information Center (FPIC). There you will find detailed information on the venomous animals and poisonous plants common throughout Florida. If you have an allergy to certain plants, insects or animals, do not forget to take your EpiPen with you on that hike, talk with your Healthcare Provider to determine your risk. Always tell someone where you are going and when they can expect your home.

Note: The list on FPIC may not be complete. Because of irresponsible pet owners, many exotic animals, e.g., Burmese python or African monitor lizard, are released into the fragile Florida ecosystem. Although these particular exotics are not venomous, they can inflict a serious bite. Unless trained at identifying and handling wild animals, and have a responsibility to do so, we should all be cautious anytime an animal is encountered in the wild no matter how cute, attractive or docile it may seem.

Remember, knowingly releasing non-indigenous animals, plants or fish into the Florida environment is illegal. See: http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/# for additional information on exotics.