03 Nov Where Florida’s wild things are

Can you find wildlife in Florida’s disappearing wetlands, forests, and streams? Yes, say noted photographers Eric and Lynn Sambol. These JIC neighbors share photos from a “Florida safari” right in our own back yard. Please click through their exquisite photo galleries!

Eric and Lynn Sambol have traveled to the ends of the Earth to photograph wildlife. Last spring, they hopped in their car and drove to nearby locations north, south and west of Jupiter. Eric says, “There is so much wildlife within a short drive of JIC! It’s thrilling to find it, photograph it and so satisfying to share it with friends and neighbors.”

In Florida, Lynn observes, “wildlife often reveals itself in the most unexpected places — sometimes right beneath our feet. The Florida burrowing owl is a perfect example. Unlike most owls, these petite, long-legged birds live underground in burrows they dig themselves or take over from small mammals. Their preference for open grassy areas means they often coexist with people, nesting in parks, pastures, and even on college campuses.”

The Sambols say that one of the best places to observe burrowing owls is at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, where “these charismatic little sentinels have become both the school’s mascot and a symbol of local wildlife conservation. They are easily seen perched near their burrow entrances in daylight, just a short drive from Jupiter.”

Florida is one of the most important bird-nesting regions in the world. It is part of the Atlantic Flyway, one of the major bird migration routes. Florida also serves as both a breeding ground and a winter refuge for countless bird species, says Lynn. “You can find stork, egret, heron, and eagle rookeries in some of the most unexpected places. It’s amazing how adaptable birds can be.  Some have built rookeries within residential neighborhoods.  We discovered one tucked between two communities in the Orlando area — a hidden sanctuary amid suburban life.”

The Sambols salute the Palm Beach County Utilities Department for transforming portions of their properties into thriving wetlands and park-like habitats that attract an abundance of wildlife. Lynn says, “These restored areas not only manage stormwater naturally but are sanctuaries for countless bird species. Especially in spring, when herons, egrets, and ibises are nesting, the wetlands come alive with activity. Some of the most accessible places to experience this are Wakodahatchee Wetlands, Green Cay Nature Center, and Peaceful Waters Sanctuary. You can enjoy beautifully designed boardwalk trails to easily enjoy Florida’s rich birdlife up close. These parks are within a 45-minute drive southwest from Jupiter Inlet Colony.”

The Sambols traveled to the Gulf Coast to find the reddish egret, one of Florida’s rarer coastal birds. “It was once nearly wiped out by plume hunters seeking its elegant feathers. Today, it’s a treasured sight along the Gulf Coast shores, especially at Fort De Soto Park, where its lively, dance-like hunting style—darting, spinning, and spreading its wings to chase fish—makes it one of the most entertaining birds to watch.”

Lynn and Eric love spotting barred owls in Florida’s residential parks and wooded areas. “They are often found perched quietly among the moss-draped oak trees of Central Florida,” notes Lynn. “Their large dark eyes and soft, barred plumage make them one of the state’s most beautiful and easily recognized owls. Spotting one resting in the shade or gliding silently through the trees is always a special encounter.”

On their Florida safari, the Sambols were lucky to spot a Florida bobcat. “This stealthy and shy native predator is thriving in the state’s protected natural areas,” says Eric. “Thanks to the preservation of green spaces and wildlife corridors across Central and South Florida parks, these elusive cats continue to flourish.  Though sightings are rare, catching a glimpse of a bobcat in the wild was an unforgettable thrill for us and a reminder of that Florida still has a wild side.”

Eric and Lynn will be near the Arctic Circle in December, photographing wolves, but look forward to returning to “our sun-drenched beaches soon. We encourage residents to take their own ‘wildlife safari’ to wetlands teeming with birds to educational sanctuaries that protect native species. All these destinations highlight Florida’s remarkable balance between urban living and natural wonder—reminding us that wild Florida is never far from reach.”

Want to do a Florida Safari? The Sambols share a few tips. 

Go early. Go late. Dawn and dusk offer the best light and the highest wildlife activity. These “golden hours” make photos glow naturally.

Dress and move quietly. Wear neutral or earth-tone clothing, avoid fragrances, and minimize rustling gear. Move slowly and deliberately — animals notice sudden motion more than sound.

Know what you’re looking for. Study the species’ behavior, habitat, and feeding times. Knowing when and where animals are active is more important than having the best lens.

Respect wildlife distance. Follow this “rule of thumb”: if the animal changes behavior because of you, you’re too close. Use long lenses instead of approaching.

Be patient. The best birdwatching and photography often come after hours of waiting. Blend in and let nature resume its rhythm.

Avoid baiting or disturbing.
Never feed or lure animals. It changes natural behavior and can endanger them later.

Note: Eric and Lynn are often seen early mornings on the beach, awaiting the sunrise and meeting other members of the Good Dog Club. Their impressive photography can be found at their websites — ericsambol.com and lynnsambol.com. On Instagram @ericsambol and @lynnsambol