Contributed
The City of Oviedo recently completed the installation of the “Wildlife Whereabout” signs throughout City parks as part of an initiative to raise awareness of wildlife habitats and provide education about them.
In May, 2025, the City’s Public Works Department, Stormwater Division, unveiled the “Wildlife Whereabouts” program to track and observe native species. The city saw a way to combine the basic idea of outlining what habitats could potentially be within the floodplains and taking it a step further and involve city residents and visitors to the local trails and parks by observing wildlife in its natural habitat. The program is interactive and allows users to send pictures of spotted wildlife and pinpoint locations to track various species in the city.
“Wildlife Whereabouts” was created as a citizen science initiative that encourages everyone to explore the outdoors and contribute to wildlife conservation. Citizens can use an online, interactive map to see not only what type of rare or endangered wildlife they could be viewing but also see more common species of local interest and where wildlife can be found. The city houses several bird species such as bald eagles, sandhill cranes and owls. In addition, other species such as otters, alligators, deer, snakes, turtles and many more are also part of the city’s ecosystem, along with valuable native plants that help the local wildlife thrive. The full list can be found here: cityofoviedo.net/wildlife
The signs, now fully installed, give explorers information about local wildlife, as well as provides a QR code for anyone to scan and upload their wildlife pictures. This will also allow visitors to the parks to pin the locations where they see wildlife.
The city recognizes this program as a great summer activity for families who are looking for a little adventure and to get to know Oviedo's wildlife.
The signs can be found in the following locations: Center Lake Park, Round Lake Park, Sweetwater Park, Solary Park and Riverside Park
Safety First
Anyone wishing to participate and submit a form is asked to observe the rules and Florida State laws regarding wildlife.
- Keep a safe distance from all wildlife, especially dangerous species such as alligators, snakes and bears.
- Do not feed the wildlife to get a good picture. That is against the law.
- Keep children at a safe distance.
- Do not disturb nests or offspring.
- Observe, don’t interact.
The city wants to inspire young biologists, nature lovers and photographers to explore and reconnect with nature through this ongoing program.
