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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A great blue heron catches a small rodent along the shore of an inland waterway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. An alligator swims in the water nearby. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge encompasses 140,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 330 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. It contains more than 1,000 known plant species. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, and a variety of insects. Photo credit: NASA/Daniel Casper KSC-2014-1999

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A great blue heron catches a small rodent along...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A great blue heron catches a small rodent along the shore of an inland waterway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. An alligator swims in the water nearby. The center shares a b... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, a female Golden-Silk Spider repairs its web. The female can be identified by its brownish-green abdomen with a white spotted irregular pattern. The golden-silk spider repairs the webbing each day, replacing half but never the whole web at one time. Its web may measure two to three feet across. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, a 92,000-acre refuge that is a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-99pp1187

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, a female Golden-Silk Spider repairs its web. The female can be identified by its brownish-green abdomen with a white spotted irregular patte... More

On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, a female Golden-Silk Spider repairs its web. During the day spider hands head downward from the underside of the web near the center. Its web may measure two to three feet across and it repairs the webbing each day, replacing half but never the whole web at one time. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, a 92,000-acre refuge that is a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-99pp1188

On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, a female Golden-Silk Spider re...

On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, a female Golden-Silk Spider repairs its web. During the day spider hands head downward from the underside of the web near the center. Its web may measure two to three fee... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a wooded area of Kennedy Space Center, robins gather on a tree branch just beginning to show new Spring growth. A member of the thrush family, robins inhabit towns, gardens, open woodlands and agricultural lands. They range through most of North America, spending winters in large roosts mostly in the United States but also Newfoundland, southern Ontario and British Columbia. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, a haven and habitat for more than 331 species of birds. The Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are also a habitat for 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC00pp0304

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a wooded area of Kennedy Space Center...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a wooded area of Kennedy Space Center, robins gather on a tree branch just beginning to show new Spring growth. A member of the thrush family, robins inhabit towns, gardens, ope... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This Broad-Winged Hawk is ready for flight from its perch on a utility pole at Kennedy Space Center. This hawk's habitat is chiefly deciduous woodland, ranging from southern Canada south throughout the eastern United States, including a small area of Central Florida. It winters in tropical South America. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, a haven and habitat for more than 331 species of birds. The Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are also a habitat for 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0303

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This Broad-Winged Hawk is ready for flig...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This Broad-Winged Hawk is ready for flight from its perch on a utility pole at Kennedy Space Center. This hawk's habitat is chiefly deciduous woodland, ranging from southern Canada... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This Broad-Winged Hawk is ready for flight from its perch on a utility pole at Kennedy Space Center. This hawk's habitat is chiefly deciduous woodland, ranging from southern Canada south throughout the eastern United States, including a small area of Central Florida. It winters in tropical South America. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, a haven and habitat for more than 331 species of birds. The Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are also a habitat for 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC00pp0303

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This Broad-Winged Hawk is ready for flig...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This Broad-Winged Hawk is ready for flight from its perch on a utility pole at Kennedy Space Center. This hawk's habitat is chiefly deciduous woodland, ranging from southern Canada... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a wooded area of Kennedy Space Center, robins gather on a tree branch just beginning to show new Spring growth. A member of the thrush family, robins inhabit towns, gardens, open woodlands and agricultural lands. They range through most of North America, spending winters in large roosts mostly in the United States but also Newfoundland, southern Ontario and British Columbia. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, a haven and habitat for more than 331 species of birds. The Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are also a habitat for 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0304

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a wooded area of Kennedy Space Center...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a wooded area of Kennedy Space Center, robins gather on a tree branch just beginning to show new Spring growth. A member of the thrush family, robins inhabit towns, gardens, ope... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary eye open as it rests in one of the ponds at Kennedy Space Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC00pp0305

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary eye open as it rests in one of the ponds at Kennedy Space Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The greenish iridescence of a male Anhinga nearly blends into the green vegetation behind it on the grounds of the Kennedy Space Center. The mostly black-bodied bird is also known as a "snakebird" because, when swimming, only its head and long, slender neck are visible above water. The anhinga inhabits freshwater ponds and swamps with thick vegetation and ranges the Atlantic and Gulf coasts from North Carolina to Texas, the Mississippi Valley north to Arkansas and Tennessee, and south to southern South America. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC00pp0307

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The greenish iridescence of a male Anhin...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The greenish iridescence of a male Anhinga nearly blends into the green vegetation behind it on the grounds of the Kennedy Space Center. The mostly black-bodied bird is also known ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The greenish iridescence of a male Anhinga nearly blends into the green vegetation behind it on the grounds of the Kennedy Space Center. The mostly black-bodied bird is also known as a "snakebird" because, when swimming, only its head and long, slender neck are visible above water. The anhinga inhabits freshwater ponds and swamps with thick vegetation and ranges the Atlantic and Gulf coasts from North Carolina to Texas, the Mississippi Valley north to Arkansas and Tennessee, and south to southern South America. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0307

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The greenish iridescence of a male Anhin...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The greenish iridescence of a male Anhinga nearly blends into the green vegetation behind it on the grounds of the Kennedy Space Center. The mostly black-bodied bird is also known ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Florida Redbelly Turtle casts a suspicious look as he is being photographed on the grounds of Kennedy Space Center. The Redbelly turtle inhabits ponds, lakes, sloughs, marshes and mangrove-bordered creeks, in a range that encompasses Florida from the southern tip north to the Apalachicola area of the panhandle. Active year-round, it is often seen basking on logs or floating mats of vegetation. Adults prefer a diet of aquatic plants. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0306

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Florida Redbelly Turtle casts a suspic...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Florida Redbelly Turtle casts a suspicious look as he is being photographed on the grounds of Kennedy Space Center. The Redbelly turtle inhabits ponds, lakes, sloughs, marshes an... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary eye open as it rests in one of the ponds at Kennedy Space Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0305

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary eye open as it rests in one of the ponds at Kennedy Space Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Florida Redbelly Turtle casts a suspicious look as he is being photographed on the grounds of Kennedy Space Center. The Redbelly turtle inhabits ponds, lakes, sloughs, marshes and mangrove-bordered creeks, in a range that encompasses Florida from the southern tip north to the Apalachicola area of the panhandle. Active year-round, it is often seen basking on logs or floating mats of vegetation. Adults prefer a diet of aquatic plants. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC00pp0306

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Florida Redbelly Turtle casts a suspic...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Florida Redbelly Turtle casts a suspicious look as he is being photographed on the grounds of Kennedy Space Center. The Redbelly turtle inhabits ponds, lakes, sloughs, marshes an... More

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her six offspring. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0313

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her...

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her six offspring. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spe... More

American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0312

American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in ...

American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merr... More

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her six offspring. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC00pp0313

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her...

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her six offspring. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spe... More

In the early morning, flocks of birds soar over the Banana River, whose waters reflect the Vehicle Assembly Building , bathed in a pink glow from post-dawn light. Next to the VAB, on the left, is the Launch Control Center. The rectangular building closer to the water at left is the Operations Support Building. At right is the Rotation/Processing Facility. The birds are a common sight at KSC since the Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects. KSC-00PP-1434

In the early morning, flocks of birds soar over the Banana River, whos...

In the early morning, flocks of birds soar over the Banana River, whose waters reflect the Vehicle Assembly Building , bathed in a pink glow from post-dawn light. Next to the VAB, on the left, is the Launch Con... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Two young Little Blue Herons perch on a limb in the underbrush at a site on NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. These herons inhabit freshwater swamps and lagoons in the South; coastal thickets on islands in the North. Adults are slate blue with maroon necks. Young birds acquiring adult plumage have a piebald appearance. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0204

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Two young Little Blue Herons perch on a l...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Two young Little Blue Herons perch on a limb in the underbrush at a site on NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. These herons inhabit freshwater swamps and lagoons in the South; coastal th... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A young Yellow-Crowned Night Heron soars through the sky over NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. It’s habitat is wooded swamps and coastal thickets, ranging from Massachusetts to Florida, west to Texas, and north along the Mississippi River. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0202

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A young Yellow-Crowned Night Heron soars ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A young Yellow-Crowned Night Heron soars through the sky over NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. It’s habitat is wooded swamps and coastal thickets, ranging from Massachusetts to Florida... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A young Yellow-Crowned Night Heron perches on a tree limb in a wooded area of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Its habitat is wooded swamps and coastal thickets, ranging from Massachusetts to Florida, west to Texas, and north along the Mississippi River. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0199

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A young Yellow-Crowned Night Heron perche...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A young Yellow-Crowned Night Heron perches on a tree limb in a wooded area of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Its habitat is wooded swamps and coastal thickets, ranging from Massachus... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Roseate spoonbills gather in the shallow water (foreground) of a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. In the background at left are white ibis, identified by their down-curving bills. Spoonbills are so named because of the broad spatulate tip on its long straight bill. They obtain food by sweeping their bills from side to side and scooping up whatever they encounter. The Center shares a boundary north, south and west with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0893

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Roseate spoonbills gather in the shallow...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Roseate spoonbills gather in the shallow water (foreground) of a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. In the background at left are white ibis, identified by their down-curving bil... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans swim in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. In the distance, at right, is a great blue heron. White pelicans winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama. Great blue herons range across the breadth of the United States, as well as north to Alaska and Canada and south to Mexico and the West Indies. The Center shares a boundary north, south and west with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0894

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans swim in a lake north of K...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans swim in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. In the distance, at right, is a great blue heron. White pelicans winter from Florida and southern California south to... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Roseate spoonbills and white ibis ((long, curved bill) gather in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. Spoonbills are so named because of the broad spatulate tip on its long straight bill. They obtain food by sweeping their bills from side to side and scooping up whatever they encounter. The Center shares a boundary north, south and west with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0891

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Roseate spoonbills and white ibis ((long...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Roseate spoonbills and white ibis ((long, curved bill) gather in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. Spoonbills are so named because of the broad spatulate tip on its long strai... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Roseate spoonbills wade in the shallow water (foreground) while white pelicans and herons gather in deeper water (background) on a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. The spoonbills are so named because of the broad spatulate tip on its long straight bill. They obtain food by sweeping their bills from side to side and scooping up whatever they encounter. The Center shares a boundary north, south and west with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0888

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Roseate spoonbills wade in the shallow w...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Roseate spoonbills wade in the shallow water (foreground) while white pelicans and herons gather in deeper water (background) on a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. The spoonbil... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This lake north of Kennedy Space Center attracts a myriad of birds, such as the white ibis (left), roseate spoonbill (center) and little blue heron (right) seen here. The Center shares a boundary north, south and west with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0892

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This lake north of Kennedy Space Center ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This lake north of Kennedy Space Center attracts a myriad of birds, such as the white ibis (left), roseate spoonbill (center) and little blue heron (right) seen here. The Center sh... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Great white herons and white ibis (smaller, curved bill) wade in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. The Center shares a boundary north, south and west with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0889

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Great white herons and white ibis (small...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Great white herons and white ibis (smaller, curved bill) wade in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. The Center shares a boundary north, south and west with the 92,000-acre Merri... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A roseate spoonbill takes flight from a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. Spoonbills are so named because of the broad spatulate tip on its long straight bill. They obtain food by sweeping their bills from side to side and scooping up whatever they encounter. The Center shares a boundary north, south and west with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0890

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A roseate spoonbill takes flight from a ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A roseate spoonbill takes flight from a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. Spoonbills are so named because of the broad spatulate tip on its long straight bill. They obtain food... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans feed in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. In the background are white ibis. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0896

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans feed in a lake north of Ke...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans feed in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. In the background are white ibis. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife R... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans soar into the blue sky above a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. Distinctive are the pelicans’ massive yellow bills and black wing tips. They winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0900

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans soar into the blue sky abo...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans soar into the blue sky above a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. Distinctive are the pelicans’ massive yellow bills and black wing tips. They winter from Florida ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans feed in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. In the background are white ibis and great white herons. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0897

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans feed in a lake north of Ke...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans feed in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. In the background are white ibis and great white herons. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Isl... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans approach for a landing near white herons in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. Distinctive are the pelicans’ massive yellow bills and black wing tips. They winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0899

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans approach for a landing nea...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans approach for a landing near white herons in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. Distinctive are the pelicans’ massive yellow bills and black wing tips. They winte... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans feed in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. In the background are white ibis and great white herons. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0895

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans feed in a lake north of Ke...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans feed in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. In the background are white ibis and great white herons. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Isl... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans approach for a landing in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. Distinctive are their massive yellow bills and black wing tips. They winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama. The Center shares a boundary with the 92,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge also provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. KSC-04pd0898

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans approach for a landing in ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - White pelicans approach for a landing in a lake north of Kennedy Space Center. Distinctive are their massive yellow bills and black wing tips. They winter from Florida and souther... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, alligators sun themselves on the bank of a pond. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding the Center. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0235

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, alligators...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, alligators sun themselves on the bank of a pond. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, a snowy egret in breeding plumage stalks the ground. This species is identified by its slender black bill, black legs and yellow feet. It inhabits salt marshes, ponds, rice fields and shallow coastal bays. Its range is northern California, Oklahoma and Maine to southern South America. They winter regularly north to California and South Carolina. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0233

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, a snowy eg...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, a snowy egret in breeding plumage stalks the ground. This species is identified by its slender black bill, black legs and yellow feet. It inhabits s... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, roseate spoonbills search the murky canal for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangroves such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimp and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0232

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, roseate sp...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, roseate spoonbills search the murky canal for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangroves such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, roseate spoonbills (front) and white ibis search the murky canal for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangroves such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimp and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. White ibis inhabit marshy sloughs, mud flats, lagoons and swamp forests along the coast from South Carolina to Florida and Texas and south to northern South America. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0229

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, roseate s...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, roseate spoonbills (front) and white ibis search the murky canal for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangroves such as on the coasts of southern Fl... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A hawk sits precariously on the top of a tree as it eyes its surroundings on NASA Kennedy Space Center. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0227

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A hawk sits precariously on the top of a...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A hawk sits precariously on the top of a tree as it eyes its surroundings on NASA Kennedy Space Center. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refug... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, a roseate spoonbill (front) and white ibis search the murky canal for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimps and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. White ibis inhabit marshy sloughs, mud flats, lagoons and swamp forests along the coast from South Carolina to Florida and Texas and south to northern South America. The ibis with the brown wings is an immature ibis. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0228

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, a roseate ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, a roseate spoonbill (front) and white ibis search the murky canal for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Flo... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, a roseate spoonbill searches the murky canal for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangroves such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimp and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0230

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, a roseate ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, a roseate spoonbill searches the murky canal for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangroves such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. The... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, two roseate spoonbills search the murky canal for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangroves such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimp and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0231

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, two rosea...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, two roseate spoonbills search the murky canal for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangroves such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. T... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, an alligator suns itself on the bank of a pond. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding the Center. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0234

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, an alligat...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, an alligator suns itself on the bank of a pond. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. T... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This black bird photographed at the Press Site at NASA's Kennedy Space Center is likely a fish crow, somewhat smaller than the American Crow. Fish crows inhabit low coastal country, as well as lakes, rivers and swamps inland. They are common around KSC. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd0995

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This black bird photographed at the Pre...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This black bird photographed at the Press Site at NASA's Kennedy Space Center is likely a fish crow, somewhat smaller than the American Crow. Fish crows inhabit low coastal count... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This is a female boat-tailed grackle, which is prominently seen around NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Males are an iridescent, purple-black color. Boat-tailed grackles are resident along the eastern and Gulf coasts of the United States, from New York to southeastern Texas, and throughout much of Florida. Primarily a coastal species of the salt and brackish marsh, in Florida it is also found near lakes, rivers, and freshwater marshes. It is commonly found in urban environments. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd0998

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This is a female boat-tailed grackle, w...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This is a female boat-tailed grackle, which is prominently seen around NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Males are an iridescent, purple-black color. Boat-tailed grackles are resident ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large alligator on the bank of a creek in NASA's Kennedy Space Center seems to ignore the great blue heron standing behind it. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd0570

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large alligator on the bank of a cre...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large alligator on the bank of a creek in NASA's Kennedy Space Center seems to ignore the great blue heron standing behind it. A protected species, alligators can be spotted ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large alligator on the bank of a creek in NASA's Kennedy Space Center rests its head, apparently ignoring the great blue heron standing behind it. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd0571

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large alligator on the bank of a cre...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large alligator on the bank of a creek in NASA's Kennedy Space Center rests its head, apparently ignoring the great blue heron standing behind it. A protected species, alligat... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Undisturbed by any fauna nearby, a large alligator basks in the sun on the bank of a creek in NASA's Kennedy Space Center. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd0573

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Undisturbed by any fauna nearby, a larg...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Undisturbed by any fauna nearby, a large alligator basks in the sun on the bank of a creek in NASA's Kennedy Space Center. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the d... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large alligator on the bank of a creek in NASA's Kennedy Space Center comes to alert, scaring off the great blue heron, seen in the sky above the water. The heron had been standing behind the alligator. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd0572

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large alligator on the bank of a cree...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large alligator on the bank of a creek in NASA's Kennedy Space Center comes to alert, scaring off the great blue heron, seen in the sky above the water. The heron had been stan... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A water lily stretches above the water in a canal on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, consisting of 140,000 acres. The Refuge provides a wide variety of habitats: coastal dunes, saltwater estuaries and marshes, freshwater impoundments, scrub, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks that provide habitat for more than 1,500 species of plants and animals. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd3163

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A water lily stretches above the water in a c...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A water lily stretches above the water in a canal on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, consisting of ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, a female Golden-Silk Spider repairs its web. The female can be identified by its brownish-green abdomen with a white spotted irregular pattern. The golden-silk spider repairs the webbing each day, replacing half but never the whole web at one time. Its web may measure two to three feet across. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, consisting of 140,000 acres. The Refuge provides a wide variety of habitats: coastal dunes, saltwater estuaries and marshes, freshwater impoundments, scrub, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks that provide habitat for more than 1,500 species of plants and animals. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd3164

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, a fem...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, a female Golden-Silk Spider repairs its web. The female can be identified by its brownish-green abdomen with a white spotted irregular pattern. T... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A water lily stretches above the water in a canal on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, consisting of 140,000 acres. The Refuge provides a wide variety of habitats: coastal dunes, saltwater estuaries and marshes, freshwater impoundments, scrub, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks that provide habitat for more than 1,500 species of plants and animals. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd3160

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A water lily stretches above the water in a ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A water lily stretches above the water in a canal on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, consisting of... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - An alligator looks warily at the photographer who's spotted the familiar head in a drainage canal on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd3159

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - An alligator looks warily at the photographer...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - An alligator looks warily at the photographer who's spotted the familiar head in a drainage canal on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A protected species, alligators can be spot... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, a female Golden-Silk Spider repairs its web. The female can be identified by its brownish-green abdomen with a white spotted irregular pattern. The golden-silk spider repairs the webbing each day, replacing half but never the whole web at one time. Its web may measure two to three feet across. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, consisting of 140,000 acres. The Refuge provides a wide variety of habitats: coastal dunes, saltwater estuaries and marshes, freshwater impoundments, scrub, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks that provide habitat for more than 1,500 species of plants and animals. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd3169

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, a fema...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the grounds of Kennedy Space Center, a female Golden-Silk Spider repairs its web. The female can be identified by its brownish-green abdomen with a white spotted irregular pattern. Th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an alligator from a nearby drainage canal stares at the photographer. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd3161

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an alligator from a nearby drainage canal stares at the photographer. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Brown pelicans gather on the wharf of the Launch Complex 39 turn basin at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The brown pelican is found along ocean shores and not on inland lakes. It is the only dark pelican, and also the only one that plunges from the air into the water to catch its food. It ranges along the Atlantic Coast from North Carolina south to Venezuela; on the Pacific Coast from British Columbia to Chile. Brown pelicans are a common sight at Kennedy. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3864

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Brown pelicans gather on the wharf of the La...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Brown pelicans gather on the wharf of the Launch Complex 39 turn basin at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The brown pelican is found along ocean shores and not on inland lakes... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Alligators bask in the warm sun on the banks of the Launch Complex 39 turn basin at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Cool weather frequently brings the gators out of the water. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3863

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Alligators bask in the warm sun on the banks...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Alligators bask in the warm sun on the banks of the Launch Complex 39 turn basin at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Cool weather frequently brings the gators out of the water.... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Great white herons, roseate spoonbills and white ibis search the water for food at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-08pd4103

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Great white herons, roseate spoonbills and whi...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Great white herons, roseate spoonbills and white ibis search the water for food at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A great white heron joins roseate spoonbills and white ibis searching the water for food at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-08pd4102

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A great white heron joins roseate spoonbills a...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A great white heron joins roseate spoonbills and white ibis searching the water for food at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Roseate spoonbills and white ibis search the water for food at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-08pd4101

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Roseate spoonbills and white ibis search the w...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Roseate spoonbills and white ibis search the water for food at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge that... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, a male hooded Merganser duck swims with two females. Their habitat includes wooded ponds, lakes and rivers. They are most often seen along rivers and estuaries during the fall and winter. They feed chiefly on small fish, which they pursue in long, rapid, underwater dives, and also frogs and aquatic insects. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4117

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, o...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, a male hooded Merganser duck swims with two females. Their habitat includes wooded ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, a male hooded Merganser duck stretches its wings. The Merganser's habitat includes wooded ponds, lakes and rivers. They are most often seen along rivers and estuaries during the fall and winter. They feed chiefly on small fish, which they pursue in long, rapid, underwater dives, and also frogs and aquatic insects. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4118

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, a male hooded Merganser duck stretches its wings. The Merganser's habitat include... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A male Anhinga perches in a shrub in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Anhingas inhabit freshwater ponds and swamps with thick vegetation. They range from the Atlantic and Gulf coasts from North Carolina to Texas, the Mississippi Valley north to Arkansas and Tennessee, and south to southern South America. They are also referred to as snakebirds because their body is submerged when swimming, showing only the head and long, slender neck above water. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4124

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A male Anhinga perches in a shrub in the Merri...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A male Anhinga perches in a shrub in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Anhingas inhabit freshwater ponds and swamps with... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a male Northern pintail duck swims on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge. Pintails inhabit marshes, prairie ponds and tundra. Widely distributed across the U.S. and Canada, the breed winters south to Central America and the West Indies. It feeds largely on seeds of aquatic plants but may also take small aquatic animals. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4122

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a male Northern pintail duck swims on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge. Pintails inhabit marshes, prairie ponds and tu... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, a male hooded Merganser duck swims with a female. The Merganser's habitat includes wooded ponds, lakes and rivers. They are most often seen along rivers and estuaries during the fall and winter. They feed chiefly on small fish, which they pursue in long, rapid, underwater dives, and also frogs and aquatic insects. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4119

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, a male hooded Merganser duck swims with a female. The Merganser's habitat includes... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, a male hooded Merganser duck swims with a female (right) who is stretching her wings. The Merganser's habitat includes wooded ponds, lakes and rivers. They are most often seen along rivers and estuaries during the fall and winter. They feed chiefly on small fish, which they pursue in long, rapid, underwater dives, and also frogs and aquatic insects. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4120

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, a male hooded Merganser duck swims with a female (right) who is stretching her win... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a pied-billed Grebe swims on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge. The normal black band on its bill is lacking in winter. The most common grebe in eastern North America, the pied-billed Grebe inhabits marshes and ponds, eating small fish, crustaceans, especially crayfish, and aquatic insects. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4121

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a pied-billed Grebe swims on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge. The normal black band on its bill is lacking in winter.... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A roseate spoonbill is feeding on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangroves such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimp and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4123

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A roseate spoonbill is feeding on a pond in th...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A roseate spoonbill is feeding on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangroves such... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Morning light sculpts a cactus on the roadside at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1012

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Morning light sculpts a cactus on the roadsid...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Morning light sculpts a cactus on the roadside at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge that includes sal... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A snowy egret stands in the shallow water of a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A type of heron, the snowy egret inhabits salt marshes, ponds, rice fields and shallow coastal bays ranging from Maine to southern South America on the east coast. It can also be found in California and Oklahoma to the Gulf of Mexico. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4126

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A snowy egret stands in the shallow water of ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A snowy egret stands in the shallow water of a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A type of heron, the snowy eg... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Hooded Merganser ducks swim on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Their habitat includes wooded ponds, lakes and rivers. They are most often seen along rivers and estuaries during the fall and winter. They feed chiefly on small fish, which they pursue in long, rapid, underwater dives, and also frogs and aquatic insects. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4128

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Hooded Merganser ducks swim on a pond in the M...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Hooded Merganser ducks swim on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Their habitat includes wooded ponds, lakes an... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A yellowleg sandpiper wades in the shallow water of a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They range through Alaska and Canada, wintering from the southern U.S. to southern South America. They inhabit marshy ponds, lake and river shores and mud flats. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4125

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A yellowleg sandpiper wades in the shallow wat...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A yellowleg sandpiper wades in the shallow water of a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They range through Alask... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A great egret preens its feathers while standing in the shallow water of a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The breed feeds alone, stalking fish, frogs, snakes and crayfish in shallow water. They inhabit freshwater and salt marshes, marshy ponds and tidal flats. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4127

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A great egret preens its feathers while stand...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A great egret preens its feathers while standing in the shallow water of a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Hooded Merganser ducks swim on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Their habitat includes wooded ponds, lakes and rivers. They are most often seen along rivers and estuaries during the fall and winter. They feed chiefly on small fish, which they pursue in long, rapid, underwater dives, and also frogs and aquatic insects. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4129

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Hooded Merganser ducks swim on a pond in the M...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Hooded Merganser ducks swim on a pond in the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which borders NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Their habitat includes wooded ponds, lakes an... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Fog blankets the woods near a road in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1009

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Fog blankets the woods near a road in the Mer...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Fog blankets the woods near a road in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes s... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Fog envelops the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse that has graced Cape Canaveral's shore for more than 100 years under the stewardship of the U.S. Air Force. The center shares a boundary with the refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1010

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Fog envelops the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse tha...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Fog envelops the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse that has graced Cape Canaveral's shore for more than 100 years under the stewardship of the U.S. Air Force. The center shares a boundary with t... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Sunrise casts an orange glow over the wooded landscape surrounding NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge that includes salt-water estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1011

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Sunrise casts an orange glow over the wooded l...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Sunrise casts an orange glow over the wooded landscape surrounding NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge t... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A Florida redbelly turtle heads from shore into the water in NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The redbelly turtle's range is the Florida peninsula and Apalachicola area of the panhandle. They are active year-round and can often be seen basking on logs or floating mats of vegetation. Adults prefer a diet of aquatic plants. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-2491

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A Florida redbelly turtle heads from shore int...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A Florida redbelly turtle heads from shore into the water in NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The redbelly turtle's range is the Florida peninsula and Apalachicola area of the pa... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Black vultures gather near woods in NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They are accompanied by a young white ibis. Ranging across the south and southeast, black vultures scavenge for both carrion and weak, sick or unprotected prey. They differ from turkey vultures in that they depend on vision to find food. They can be found all around Kennedy, on the ground or any higher landing spot, from buildings to utility poles. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-2490

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Black vultures gather near woods in NASA's Ken...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Black vultures gather near woods in NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They are accompanied by a young white ibis. Ranging across the south and southeast, black vultures scavenge ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An alligator patrols the water in NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-2489

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An alligator patrols the water in NASA's Kenne...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An alligator patrols the water in NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy. The... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A thick-bodied alligator moves through shallow water behind the NASA News Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge that includes saltwater estuaries, brackish marshes, hardwood hammocks and pine flatwoods. The diverse landscape provides habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-2602

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A thick-bodied alligator moves through shallow ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A thick-bodied alligator moves through shallow water behind the NASA News Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– A great egret (left), great blue heron (far right) and cormorants (foreground) share the shallow water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2857

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– A great egret (left), great blue heron (far ri...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– A great egret (left), great blue heron (far right) and cormorants (foreground) share the shallow water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The center shares a boundary with the M... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– A Great Blue Heron cruises the sky near the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They range throughout the U.S., inhabiting lakes, ponds, rivers and marshes. Their principal food is fish or frogs but may feed on small mammals, reptiles and occasionally birds. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2844

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– A Great Blue Heron cruises the sky near the Ve...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– A Great Blue Heron cruises the sky near the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They range throughout the U.S., inhabiting lakes, ponds, rivers and mars... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Snowy egrets gather in water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They are distinguished by their slim black beaks, black legs and yellow feet. These egrets inhabit salt marshes, ponds, rice fields and shallow coastal bays. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2849

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Snowy egrets gather in water on NASA's Kennedy...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Snowy egrets gather in water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They are distinguished by their slim black beaks, black legs and yellow feet. These egrets inhabit salt marshes, ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbills feed in the water. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimps and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. This and other wildlife abound throughout Kennedy as the center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2853

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, sca...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbills feed in the water. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Te... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill eyes the camera during its search for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimps and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. This and other wildlife abound throughout Kennedy as the center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2870

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill eyes the camera during its search for food. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an alligator rests on the bank of a canal. Alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy. In Spring, they frequently roam, searching for mates. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2865

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an alligator rests on the bank of a canal. Alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy. In Spring, ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Mangrove roots are exposed in the drought-affected waters on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Mangroves generally are trees and shrubs that grow in saline (brackish) coastal habitats in the tropics and subtropics. They provide food, habitat and refuge for a variety of animals, birds and sea creatures. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2859

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Mangrove roots are exposed in the drought-affe...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Mangrove roots are exposed in the drought-affected waters on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Mangroves generally are trees and shrubs that grow in saline (brackish) coastal habi... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– One of the most numerous herons in the Deep South, this Louisiana Heron stalks the water at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida looking for food, usually frogs or fish. The range of this species is the Atlantic and Gulf coasts from Massachusetts south, wintering from Virginia to South America. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2858

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– One of the most numerous herons in the Deep So...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– One of the most numerous herons in the Deep South, this Louisiana Heron stalks the water at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida looking for food, usually frogs or fish. The range of ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an alligator waits for a prospective meal. Alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2860

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an alligator waits for a prospective meal. Alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy.... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Who is watching whom, as this alligator appears to stare into the camera (at a safe distance away) from its watery site. Alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2868

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Who is watching whom, as this alligator appear...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Who is watching whom, as this alligator appears to stare into the camera (at a safe distance away) from its watery site. Alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill eyes the camera. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimps and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. This and other wildlife abound throughout Kennedy as the center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2869

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill eyes the camera. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Tex... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– The scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill wades through water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimps and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. This and other wildlife abound throughout Kennedy as the center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2845

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– The scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill wades ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– The scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill wades through water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an alligator rests on the bank of a canal. Alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2866

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an alligator rests on the bank of a canal. Alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy. The center ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill feeds in the water. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimps and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. This and other wildlife abound throughout Kennedy as the center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2854

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill feeds in the water. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill eyes the camera. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimps and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. This and other wildlife abound throughout Kennedy as the center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2851

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill eyes the camera. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Te... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– The scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill searches for food in the water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimps and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. This and other wildlife abound throughout Kennedy as the center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2847

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– The scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill search...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– The scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill searches for food in the water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Snowy egrets gather in water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They are distinguished by their slim black beaks, black legs and yellow feet. These egrets inhabit salt marshes, ponds, rice fields and shallow coastal bays. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2848

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Snowy egrets gather in water on NASA's Kennedy...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Snowy egrets gather in water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They are distinguished by their slim black beaks, black legs and yellow feet. These egrets inhabit salt marshes, ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an alligator waits for a prospective meal. Alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy. The center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2867

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the water on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an alligator waits for a prospective meal. Alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding Kennedy.... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill waits in the water for a tempting meal . Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimps and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. This and other wildlife abound throughout Kennedy as the center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2850

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill waits in the water for a tempting meal . Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill feeds in the water. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas. These birds feed on shrimps and fish in the shallow water, sweeping their bills from side to side. This and other wildlife abound throughout Kennedy as the center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-2855

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– On NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the scarlet-feathered roseate spoonbill feeds in the water. Spoonbills inhabit areas of mangrove such as on the coasts of southern Florida and ... More

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