Florida's Freakiest Critters Chronicled for Halloween

Florida manatees, deer, bears and panthers might pull the biggest oohs most of the year, but this is Halloween season. That means creepy reigns supreme.

And, as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission points out, the Sunshine State has its share of freaky, scary and unusual creatures. That’s why it’s chronicling one a day in a series titled “Creepy Critters.”

The critters selected so far aren’t cuddly and few would describe them as cute. They all, however, call the Sunshine State home.

The weeklong look at creepy critters is being staged via the commission’s Facebook page. So far it includes a look at the giant golden silk spider, the gangly turkey vulture and the ferocious-looking alligator gar. Each spotlight also offers information about the unique animals, giving the commission a chance to educate residents about the critters that share Florida with them.

Check back on the state’s page throughout the week to see what other creepy critters call Florida home.

We’re betting the monstrous mantis shrimp caught in Fort Pierce earlier this year will make the list. If not, it provides a great start for next year’s creepy list.

What Florida creatures do you find the creepiest or scariest? Tell us by commenting below!

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See Also:

• ‘Monster Shrimp’ Bagged by Florida Fisherman
• Tampa Bay’s Scariest Places
• 765-Pound Monster Gator Bagged in Florida

Photo Credit: An alligator gar, left, golden silk spider and turkey vulture. FWC Facebook