Viewing Wildlife in Dry Tortugas

The Dry Tortugas has a diverse natural history and a variety of wildlife both above and under water. From birds, to sea turtles and coral reefs, the park is paradise for wildlife viewing. Things to Keep in Mind Spring and Fall Migration – The Dry Tortugas are a perfect layover for bird migrating to and from South and North America. If you have come for the birds, come during these special times. Spring migration is the preferred season. Preserve and Protect – As a National Park, all wildlife is protected. Although we do allow fishing in some areas of the park, you still must comply with all federal and state fishing rules and regulations. Sea Turtles When Ponce de Leon discovered the islands of the Dry Tortugas he noted the abundant marine life including the sea turtles, and thus named these islands "Las Tortugas". Today you can still find sea turtles swimming around the islands and nesting on the sandy beaches. Two common nesting sea turtles in the Dry Tortugas are the green and loggerhead species. While visiting Dry Tortugas National Park, if you are lucky enough to spot one of the 5 different sea turtles found in the park, please remember to keep your distance and enjoy wildlife from afar. Reefs and Fishes Ancient coral reefs are the foundation of the Dry Tortugas islands, topped by a shallow basin ringed by living coral reefs. Hundreds of species of marine animals lie just below the surface of the water. There are opportunities to view sharks, sea fans, coral, lobsters, squid, octopus, tropical reef fishes, and Goliath groupers. Birds Dry Tortugas National Park is a world class birding destination, especially during spring migration. Nearly 300 hundred species of birds have been spotted in the Dry Tortugas. With some species like the magnificent frigate bird, and sooty terns, nesting nowhere else in the continental united states, except for the islands of the Dry Tortugas. Imagine 100,000 sooty terns all coming home to roost on a tiny speck of land in the middle of the Gulf of America. Keep a lookout for pelagic seabirds on your journey out to the park as well. These seabirds spend almost their entire life over the open ocean. With a little luck you may be able to spot such rarities as the elegant White-tailed Tropicbird.