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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Sandpipers investigate a washed up horseshoe crab on the river bank on Kennedy Space Center. Sandpipers are found on shores and in wetlands around the globe, breeding on the Arctic tundra then returning to more temperate climes. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0869

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Sandpipers investigate a washed up ho...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Sandpipers investigate a washed up horseshoe crab on the river bank on Kennedy Space Center. Sandpipers are found on shores and in wetlands around the globe, breeding on the Arc... More

Slavery abolished by the laws of nature!!! Negroes not of the same species with white men!!! The mulatto race will soon cease to exist!! [Regarding course of lectures in aid of the abolition of slavery in the United States to be given by Robert

Slavery abolished by the laws of nature!!! Negroes not of the same spe...

Available also through the Library of Congress web site in two forms: as facsimile page images and as full text in SGML. Printed Ephemera Collection; Portfolio 155, Folder 24.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The closeup of this Florida softshell turtle shows its snorkel-like snout. A totally aquatic freshwater turtle, it prefers lakes and slow-moving rivers. It was spotted near the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The species main food is crayfish, fish, frogs, tadpoles and some vegetation. It ranges throughout all of Florida. Kennedy 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/Kenny Allen KSC-08pd1625

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The closeup of this Florida softshell turtl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The closeup of this Florida softshell turtle shows its snorkel-like snout. A totally aquatic freshwater turtle, it prefers lakes and slow-moving rivers. It was spotted near the Shutt... More

Photograph of a Red Fox and a Fisher

Photograph of a Red Fox and a Fisher

Original caption: A Red fox and a fisher sizing each other up. Historic Photographs

Photograph of Red Fox Pup Hiding Behind a Rock

Photograph of Red Fox Pup Hiding Behind a Rock

Original caption: Red fox pup hiding behind a rock. Kettle Moraine State Forest, Wisconsin. Historic Photographs

Photograph of Red Fox Pup Hiding Behind a Rock

Photograph of Red Fox Pup Hiding Behind a Rock

Original caption: Red fox pup hiding behind a rock. Kettle Moraine State Forest, Wisconsin. Historic Photographs

Photograph of Deer Fawn and Ferns

Photograph of Deer Fawn and Ferns

Original caption: Deer fawn and ferns. Historic Photographs Public domain photograph of wildlife, animals, wilderness, nature, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Photograph of Bobcat, National Forest Service photograph.

Photograph of Bobcat, National Forest Service photograph.

Original caption: Bobcat, close-up (French Creek Game Farm). Historic Photographs

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Roseate Spoonbill sweeps the water for food in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with Kennedy Space Center. The brilliant pink bird is named for its straight bill with the broad spatulate tip. Preferring a habitat of mangroves, it is usually found on the coasts of southern Florida and Texas, occasionally in Louisiana., in the West Indies, Mexico and Central and South America. Spoonbills feed on shrimps and fish in shallow waters, sweeping their bills from side to side and scooping up whatever they encounter. The 92,000-acre refuge 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-99pp0305

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Roseate Spoonbill sweeps the water for...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Roseate Spoonbill sweeps the water for food in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with Kennedy Space Center. The brilliant pink bird is named fo... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Two roseate spoonbills wade in the waters of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with Kennedy Space Center. The birds, named for their brilliant pink color and paddle-shaped bill, feed in shallow water by swinging their bill back and forth, scooping up small fish and crustaceans. They typically inhabit mangroves on the coasts of southern Florida, Louisiana and Texas. The 92,000-acre wildlife refuge 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-99pp0365

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Two roseate spoonbills wade in the water...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Two roseate spoonbills wade in the waters of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with Kennedy Space Center. The birds, named for their brilliant pi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A white pelican and several small egrets rest on the bank of a pond in in the waters of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with Kennedy Space Center. White pelicans inhabit marshy lakes and along the Pacific and Texas coasts. They winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama, chiefly in coastal lagoons. They are frequently seen flying in long lines, flapping and sailing in unison, but also ride rising air currents to soar gracefully in circles. The range of the egret includes southern and eastern states, Mexico, Central and South America, and the West Indies. 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-99pp1523

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A white pelican and several small egrets...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A white pelican and several small egrets rest on the bank of a pond in in the waters of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with Kennedy Space Cent... More

A rescued white pelican, dubbed "Fisheater" by his rescuers, takes a tentative step and stretches its wings after being let go at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Looking on is Mark Epstein, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, who had held the bird while Kat Royer, also with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, placed on it a leg band issued by the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bird Banding Laboratory. The pelican was found covered in crude oil from a contaminated ditch in northern Indiana in November, and was rescued by a local Police Department, treated, and flown to the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge in Orlando, Fla. for care and rest. It is being released to join a flock of about 30 other white pelicans that are wintering on the refuge. White pelicans inhabit marshy lakes and along the Pacific and Texas coasts. They winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama, chiefly in coastal lagoons. They are frequently seen flying in long lines, flapping and sailing in unison, but also ride rising air currents to soar gracefully in circles. 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-99pp1454

A rescued white pelican, dubbed "Fisheater" by his rescuers, takes a t...

A rescued white pelican, dubbed "Fisheater" by his rescuers, takes a tentative step and stretches its wings after being let go at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Looking on is Mark Epstein, with th... More

Mark Epstein, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, holds a white pelican that will be released under a rain-filled sky at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The bird was found covered in crude oil from a contaminated ditch in northern Indiana in November, and was rescued by a local Police Department, treated, and flown to the Back to Nature Wildlife Center in Orlando, Fla. for care and rest. After Kat Royer, who is with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, fits the bird with a leg band issued by the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bird Banding Laboratory, the pelican will be let go to join a flock of about 30 other white pelicans that are wintering on the refuge. White pelicans inhabit marshy lakes and along the Pacific and Texas coasts. They winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama, chiefly in coastal lagoons. They are frequently seen flying in long lines, flapping and sailing in unison, but also ride rising air currents to soar gracefully in circles. 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-99pp1451

Mark Epstein, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, holds a white p...

Mark Epstein, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, holds a white pelican that will be released under a rain-filled sky at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The bird was found covered in crude oil... More

Under a rain-filled sky, Mark Epstein holds a rescued white pelican while Kat Royer fixes a leg band on it before releasing it at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Epstein and Royer are with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The bird was found covered in crude oil from a contaminated ditch in northern Indiana in November, and was rescued by a local Police Department, treated, and flown to the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge in Orlando, Fla. for care and rest. The pelican, dubbed "Fisheater" by its rescuers, will be let go to join a flock of about 30 other white pelicans that are wintering on the refuge. White pelicans inhabit marshy lakes and along the Pacific and Texas coasts. They winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama, chiefly in coastal lagoons. They are frequently seen flying in long lines, flapping and sailing in unison, but also ride rising air currents to soar gracefully in circles. 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-99pp1452

Under a rain-filled sky, Mark Epstein holds a rescued white pelican wh...

Under a rain-filled sky, Mark Epstein holds a rescued white pelican while Kat Royer fixes a leg band on it before releasing it at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Epstein and Royer are with the U.S.... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A white pelican named "Fisheater" by its rescuers soars to open water in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge as it flies to freedom. The pelican was found covered in crude oil from a contaminated ditch in northern Indiana in November, and was rescued by a local Police Department, treated, and flown to the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge in Orlando, Fla. for care and rest. It is being released today to join a flock of about 30 other white pelicans that are wintering on the refuge, some of which are nearby. Before its release, however, Kat Royer, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, placed on it a leg band issued by the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bird Banding Laboratory. White pelicans inhabit marshy lakes and along the Pacific and Texas coasts. They winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama, chiefly in coastal lagoons. They are frequently seen flying in long lines, flapping and sailing in unison, but also ride rising air currents to soar gracefully in circles. 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-99pp1456

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A white pelican named "Fisheater" by its...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A white pelican named "Fisheater" by its rescuers soars to open water in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge as it flies to freedom. The pelican was found covered in crude ... More

Under a rain-filled sky, Mark Epstein, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, gets ready to release a rescued white pelican. At right is Kat Royer, also with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, who has fixed on it a leg band issued by the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bird Banding Laboratory. In the background is Christine Wise who is involved with rescue and rehabilitation of Florida wild animals. Wise brought the pelican to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge for its release. The bird was found covered in crude oil from a contaminated ditch in northern Indiana in November, and was rescued by a local Police Department, treated, and flown to the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge in Orlando, Fla. for care and rest. The pelican, dubbed "Fisheater" by its rescuers, is being let go to join a flock of about 30 other white pelicans that are wintering on the refuge. White pelicans inhabit marshy lakes and along the Pacific and Texas coasts. They winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama, chiefly in coastal lagoons. They are frequently seen flying in long lines, flapping and sailing in unison, but also ride rising air currents to soar gracefully in circles. 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-99pp1453

Under a rain-filled sky, Mark Epstein, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife...

Under a rain-filled sky, Mark Epstein, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, gets ready to release a rescued white pelican. At right is Kat Royer, also with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, who has fixed ... More

A white pelican named "Fisheater" by its rescuers, beats its wings as it flies to freedom at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The pelican was found covered in crude oil from a contaminated ditch in northern Indiana in November, and was rescued by a local Police Department, treated, and flown to the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge in Orlando, Fla. for care and rest. It is being released today to join a flock of about 30 other white pelicans that are wintering on the refuge. Before its release, however, Kat Royer, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, placed on it a leg band issued by the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bird Banding Laboratory. White pelicans inhabit marshy lakes and along the Pacific and Texas coasts. They winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama, chiefly in coastal lagoons. They are frequently seen flying in long lines, flapping and sailing in unison, but also ride rising air currents to soar gracefully in circles. 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-99pp1455

A white pelican named "Fisheater" by its rescuers, beats its wings as ...

A white pelican named "Fisheater" by its rescuers, beats its wings as it flies to freedom at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The pelican was found covered in crude oil from a contaminated ditch in ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this nine-banded armadillo may be looking for food. Introduced to Florida in the early 1900's, this species is found statewide in areas with dense ground cover and sandy soil. Nine bands of plates cover the body from shoulder to hip and 12 bands cover the long tail. It has a small, tapered head and snout and a long tongue. Its ears are long and hairless. It has sparse white hairs on its belly. Its diet is composed of insects, especially beetles, and other invertebrates plus some plant foods such as cedars and beautyberries. It is primarily nocturnal, sedentary, solitary and a burrower. It digs a series of dens. The multiple entrances are usually protected by stumps, palmettos, or trees. Many other animals also use armadillo dens. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0147

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, t...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this nine-banded armadillo may be looking for food. Introduced to Florida in the early 1900's, this species is found statewide in areas with... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this nine-banded armadillo may be looking for food. Introduced to Florida in the early 1900's, this species is found statewide in areas with dense ground cover and sandy soil. Nine bands of plates cover the body from shoulder to hip and 12 bands cover the long tail. It has a small, tapered head and snout and a long tongue. Its ears are long and hairless. It has sparse white hairs on its belly. Its diet is composed of insects, especially beetles, and other invertebrates plus some plant foods such as cedars and beautyberries. It is primarily nocturnal, sedentary, solitary and a burrower. It digs a series of dens. The multiple entrances are usually protected by stumps, palmettos, or trees. Many other animals also use armadillo dens. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0148

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, t...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this nine-banded armadillo may be looking for food. Introduced to Florida in the early 1900's, this species is found statewide in areas with... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this nine-banded armadillo may be looking for food. Introduced to Florida in the early 1900's, this species is found statewide in areas with dense ground cover and sandy soil. Nine bands of plates cover the body from shoulder to hip and 12 bands cover the long tail. It has a small, tapered head and snout and a long tongue. Its ears are long and hairless. It has sparse white hairs on its belly. Its diet is composed of insects, especially beetles, and other invertebrates plus some plant foods such as cedars and beautyberries. It is primarily nocturnal, sedentary, solitary and a burrower. It digs a series of dens. The multiple entrances are usually protected by stumps, palmettos, or trees. Many other animals also use armadillo dens. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0146

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, t...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this nine-banded armadillo may be looking for food. Introduced to Florida in the early 1900's, this species is found statewide in areas with... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, two roseate spoonbills mirror each other as they preen their lipstick-colored feathers. The birds, named for their brilliant pink color and paddle-shaped bill, feed in shallow water by swinging their bill back and forth, scooping up small fish and crustaceans. They typically inhabit mangroves on the coasts of southern Florida, Louisiana and Texas. The 92,000-acre refuge, which shares a boundary with Kennedy Space Center, is a habitat for more than 330 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 KSC00pp0152

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Merritt Island National Wildlife ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, two roseate spoonbills mirror each other as they preen their lipstick-colored feathers. The birds, named for their brilliant pink co... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, two roseate spoonbills mirror each other as they preen their lipstick-colored feathers. The birds, named for their brilliant pink color and paddle-shaped bill, feed in shallow water by swinging their bill back and forth, scooping up small fish and crustaceans. They typically inhabit mangroves on the coasts of southern Florida, Louisiana and Texas. The 92,000-acre refuge, which shares a boundary with Kennedy Space Center, is a habitat for more than 330 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 KSC-00pp0152

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Merritt Island National Wildlife ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, two roseate spoonbills mirror each other as they preen their lipstick-colored feathers. The birds, named for their brilliant pink co... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A bald eagle joins two vultures at the site of an undetermined carcass on the grounds of the Kennedy Space Center. The Southern Bald Eagle ranges throughout Florida and along the coasts of California, Texas, Louisiana, and the south Atlantic states. Bald eagles are listed as endangered in the U.S., except in five states where they are listed as threatened. The number of nesting pairs of the southern race once numbered several thousand; recent estimates are only 350-375. Most of the southern race nests in Florida. Eagles arrive at KSC during late summer and leave for the north in late spring. They move to nest sites in October and November and lay one to three eggs. The young fledge from February to April. KSC 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 KSC00pp0418

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A bald eagle joins two vultures at the s...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A bald eagle joins two vultures at the site of an undetermined carcass on the grounds of the Kennedy Space Center. The Southern Bald Eagle ranges throughout Florida and along the c... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A bald eagle joins two vultures at the site of an undetermined carcass on the grounds of the Kennedy Space Center. The Southern Bald Eagle ranges throughout Florida and along the coasts of California, Texas, Louisiana, and the south Atlantic states. Bald eagles are listed as endangered in the U.S., except in five states where they are listed as threatened. The number of nesting pairs of the southern race once numbered several thousand; recent estimates are only 350-375. Most of the southern race nests in Florida. Eagles arrive at KSC during late summer and leave for the north in late spring. They move to nest sites in October and November and lay one to three eggs. The young fledge from February to April. KSC 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-00pp0418

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A bald eagle joins two vultures at the s...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A bald eagle joins two vultures at the site of an undetermined carcass on the grounds of the Kennedy Space Center. The Southern Bald Eagle ranges throughout Florida and along the c... More

A pair of Sandhill Cranes searches for food with their still-fluffy fledgling close by. The trio have been seen wandering the grassy areas in the KSC Launch Complex 39 area. Sandhill cranes range from Siberia, Alaska and Arctic islands to Michigan, Minnesota and California; from Florida to Texas. They prefer large freshwater marshes, prairie ponds and marshy tundra. KSC 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-00pp0624

A pair of Sandhill Cranes searches for food with their still-fluffy fl...

A pair of Sandhill Cranes searches for food with their still-fluffy fledgling close by. The trio have been seen wandering the grassy areas in the KSC Launch Complex 39 area. Sandhill cranes range from Siberia, ... More

A pair of Sandhill Cranes searches for food with their still-fluffy fledgling close by. The trio have been seen wandering the grassy areas in the KSC Launch Complex 39 area. Sandhill cranes range from Siberia, Alaska and Arctic islands to Michigan, Minnesota and California; from Florida to Texas. They prefer large freshwater marshes, prairie ponds and marshy tundra. KSC 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 KSC00pp0624

A pair of Sandhill Cranes searches for food with their still-fluffy fl...

A pair of Sandhill Cranes searches for food with their still-fluffy fledgling close by. The trio have been seen wandering the grassy areas in the KSC Launch Complex 39 area. Sandhill cranes range from Siberia, ... More

While the sandhill crane parents search for food in front of the Vehicle Assembly Building, their still-featherless baby nearby tests its voice. The cranes have been a constant sight in the Launch Complex 39 area during the month of May. Sandhill cranes range from Siberia, Alaska and Arctic islands to Michigan, Minnesota and California; from Florida to Texas. They prefer large freshwater marshes, prairie ponds and marshy tundra. KSC 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 KSC00pp0672

While the sandhill crane parents search for food in front of the Vehic...

While the sandhill crane parents search for food in front of the Vehicle Assembly Building, their still-featherless baby nearby tests its voice. The cranes have been a constant sight in the Launch Complex 39 ar... More

While the sandhill crane parents search for food in front of the Vehicle Assembly Building, their still-featherless baby nearby tests its voice. The cranes have been a constant sight in the Launch Complex 39 area during the month of May. Sandhill cranes range from Siberia, Alaska and Arctic islands to Michigan, Minnesota and California; from Florida to Texas. They prefer large freshwater marshes, prairie ponds and marshy tundra. KSC 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-00pp0672

While the sandhill crane parents search for food in front of the Vehic...

While the sandhill crane parents search for food in front of the Vehicle Assembly Building, their still-featherless baby nearby tests its voice. The cranes have been a constant sight in the Launch Complex 39 ar... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An immature -- therefore white -- Little Blue Heron (center, with black bill) joins Roseate Spoonbills and a pair of Great Egrets in a lake near Kennedy Space Center. The heron ranges along the east coast of the United States, from New York to Texas, inland to Oklahoma. It winters from South Carolina to South America. For habitat the Little Blue Heron prefers freshwater swamps and lagoons in the South, coastal thickets on islands in the North. The species is often observed in large mixed concentrations of herons and egrets KSC-02pd0436

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An immature -- therefore white -- Littl...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An immature -- therefore white -- Little Blue Heron (center, with black bill) joins Roseate Spoonbills and a pair of Great Egrets in a lake near Kennedy Space Center. The heron r... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Two manatees surface for air in water on KSC. Manatees live in Florida's warm water rivers and inland springs. KSC 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.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Two manatees surface for air in water o...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Two manatees surface for air in water on KSC. Manatees live in Florida's warm water rivers and inland springs. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Re... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A lone white ibis shares its watery hunting ground with a group of roseate spoonbills near KSC. Spoonbills prefer to inhabit mangroves, ranging from the coasts of southern Florida, Louisiana and Texas, to the West Indies, Mexico, Central and South America. They feed on shrimps and fish in shallow waters. Spoonbills are one of 310 species of birds that inhabit the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with KSC. 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.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A lone white ibis shares its watery hunt...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A lone white ibis shares its watery hunting ground with a group of roseate spoonbills near KSC. Spoonbills prefer to inhabit mangroves, ranging from the coasts of southern Florida,... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Nature thrives with technology as seen in this photo of the Vehicle Assembly Building (background) and surrounding grounds and water. In the foreground is an Anhinga perched on waterside plants. A common inhabitant of Kennedy Space Center, it prefers freshwater ponds and swamps with thick vegetation, especially cypress. Anhinga can be found in the U.S. on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts from North Carolina to Texas. They are known as the “Snakebird” because when swimming they submerge their bodies, leaving only their heads and long necks visible. They are often seen on the ground and in the trees with their wings open to dry them in the sun. Kennedy shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, home to some of the nation’s rarest and most unusual species of wildlife. 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.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Nature thrives with technology as seen in...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Nature thrives with technology as seen in this photo of the Vehicle Assembly Building (background) and surrounding grounds and water. In the foreground is an Anhinga perched on wat... 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

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement for protection of four at-risk wildlife species on northeast Oregon farm. Parties to agreement include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Threemile Canyon Farms, The Nature Conservancy, and Portland General Electric

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement...

Photographs Documenting the Secretary's Activities, and Agency Officials, Events, Programs, and Managed Sites

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement for protection of four at-risk wildlife species on northeast Oregon farm. Parties to agreement include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Threemile Canyon Farms, The Nature Conservancy, and Portland General Electric

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement...

Photographs Documenting the Secretary's Activities, and Agency Officials, Events, Programs, and Managed Sites

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement for protection of four at-risk wildlife species on northeast Oregon farm. Parties to agreement include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Threemile Canyon Farms, The Nature Conservancy, and Portland General Electric

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement...

Photographs Documenting the Secretary's Activities, and Agency Officials, Events, Programs, and Managed Sites

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement for protection of four at-risk wildlife species on northeast Oregon farm. Parties to agreement include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Threemile Canyon Farms, The Nature Conservancy, and Portland General Electric

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement...

Photographs Documenting the Secretary's Activities, and Agency Officials, Events, Programs, and Managed Sites

Representative of the Oregon Zoo in Portland speaking at Zoo-hosted event highlighting public-private agreement for protection of four at-risk wildlife species on northeast Oregon farm. Partners include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Threemile Canyon Farms, The Nature Conservancy, and Portland General Electric

Representative of the Oregon Zoo in Portland speaking at Zoo-hosted ev...

Photographs Documenting the Secretary's Activities, and Agency Officials, Events, Programs, and Managed Sites

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement for protection of four at-risk wildlife species on northeast Oregon farm. Parties to agreement include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Threemile Canyon Farms, The Nature Conservancy, and Portland General Electric

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement...

Photographs Documenting the Secretary's Activities, and Agency Officials, Events, Programs, and Managed Sites

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement for protection of four at-risk wildlife species on northeast Oregon farm. Parties to agreement include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Threemile Canyon Farms, The Nature Conservancy, and Portland General Electric

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement...

Photographs Documenting the Secretary's Activities, and Agency Officials, Events, Programs, and Managed Sites

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement for protection of four at-risk wildlife species on northeast Oregon farm. Parties to agreement include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Threemile Canyon Farms, The Nature Conservancy, and Portland General Electric

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement...

Photographs Documenting the Secretary's Activities, and Agency Officials, Events, Programs, and Managed Sites

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement for protection of four at-risk wildlife species on northeast Oregon farm. Parties to agreement include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Threemile Canyon Farms, The Nature Conservancy, and Portland General Electric

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement...

Photographs Documenting the Secretary's Activities, and Agency Officials, Events, Programs, and Managed Sites

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement for protection of four at-risk wildlife species on northeast Oregon farm. Parties to agreement include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Threemile Canyon Farms, The Nature Conservancy, and Portland General Electric

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement...

Photographs Documenting the Secretary's Activities, and Agency Officials, Events, Programs, and Managed Sites

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement for protection of four at-risk wildlife species on northeast Oregon farm. Parties to agreement include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Threemile Canyon Farms, The Nature Conservancy, and Portland General Electric

Event at Oregon Zoo in Portland, highlighting public-private agreement...

Photographs Documenting the Secretary's Activities, and Agency Officials, Events, Programs, and Managed Sites

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This young red-shouldered hawk perches on a roadside pole inside NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The habitat of these hawks is deciduous woodlands, especially near standing water, frequently found in lowlands such as swampy woods and bogs. They range throughout the eastern half of the United States. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0150

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This young red-shouldered hawk perches ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This young red-shouldered hawk perches on a roadside pole inside NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The habitat of these hawks is deciduous woodlands, especially near standing water, f... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret is on the lookout for food in a pond on NASA's Kennedy Space Center. 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. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0153

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret is on the lookout for food...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret is on the lookout for food in a pond on NASA's Kennedy Space Center. A type of heron, the snowy egret inhabits salt marshes, ponds, rice fields and shallow coastal b... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the bank of a pond provides the perfect spot for sunbathing alligators. 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 KSC. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0157

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the ban...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the bank of a pond provides the perfect spot for sunbathing alligators. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, alligators begin climbing out of a pond to sunbathe on the bank. 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 KSC. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0155

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, alligat...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, alligators begin climbing out of a pond to sunbathe on the bank. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they di... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This bird seen at NASA's Kennedy Space Center resembles the anhinga that inhabits southern freshwater ponds and swamps. Its long, dagger-shaped, serrated bill is ideally suited for catching fish, which it spears and then flips into the air and gulps down headfirst. It can frequently be seen perched with wings half-open to dry them in the sun since they lack oil glands with which to preen. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0145

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This bird seen at NASA's Kennedy Space ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This bird seen at NASA's Kennedy Space Center resembles the anhinga that inhabits southern freshwater ponds and swamps. Its long, dagger-shaped, serrated bill is ideally suited f... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a marshy area of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this white ibis may be looking for sticks to build its nest in a nearby tree. White ibis range from coastal South Carolina to Florida and Texas, as well as South America. They inhabit marshy sloughs, mud flats, lagoons and swamp forests. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0152

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a marshy area of NASA's Kennedy Space...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a marshy area of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this white ibis may be looking for sticks to build its nest in a nearby tree. White ibis range from coastal South Carolina to Flor... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret is spotted in the midst of reeds near a pond on NASA's Kennedy Space Center. 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. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0151

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret is spotted in the midst of...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret is spotted in the midst of reeds near a pond on NASA's Kennedy Space Center. A type of heron, the snowy egret inhabits salt marshes, ponds, rice fields and shallow c... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- White pelicans form a line while swimming in the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The turn basin was carved out of the Banana River when Kennedy Space Center was built. White pelicans winter from Florida and southern California to Panama, chiefly in coastal lagoons, and usually in colonies. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/George Shelton KSC-07pd0356

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- White pelicans form a line while swimmi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- White pelicans form a line while swimming in the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The turn basin was carved out of the Banana River w... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- White pelicans gather in the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The turn basin was carved out of the Banana River when Kennedy Space Center was built. White pelicans winter from Florida and southern California to Panama, chiefly in coastal lagoons, and usually in colonies. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/George Shelton KSC-07pd0355

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- White pelicans gather in the turn basin...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- White pelicans gather in the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The turn basin was carved out of the Banana River when Kennedy Space Ce... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A pair of brown pelicans rest on a wall near the turn basin at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The turn basin was carved out of the Banana River when KSC was built. The birds' habitat is sandy coastal beaches and lagoons, ranging along the Atlantic Coast from North Carolina south to Venezuela. It nests in colonies. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/George Shelton KSC-07pd0357

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A pair of brown pelicans rest on a wall...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A pair of brown pelicans rest on a wall near the turn basin at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The turn basin was carved out of the Banana River when KSC was built. The birds' habi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A dolphin silently glides through the water of the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The turn basin was carved out of the Banana River when Kennedy Space Center was built. Dolphins frequent bays and coastlines, usually in depths under 20 meters. While some pods take up permanent residence and establish home waters, others are migratory and swim considerable distances from coast to coast. Dolphins are a frequent sight in the rivers around KSC, which shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0354

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A dolphin silently glides through the wa...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A dolphin silently glides through the water of the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The turn basin was carved out of the Banana River ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building, a dolphin interrupts two white pelicans swimming near the shore. White pelicans winter from Florida and southern California to Panama, chiefly in coastal lagoons, and usually in colonies. The turn basin was carved out of the Banana River when Kennedy Space Center was built. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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-07pd0353

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the turn basin near the Vehicle Assem...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building, a dolphin interrupts two white pelicans swimming near the shore. White pelicans winter from Florida and southern California t... 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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, a young alligator tests the water. 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 KSC. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0883

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, a y...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, a young alligator tests the water. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The you... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret perches on dead limbs in the Indian River near Kennedy Space Center. 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. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0876

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret perches on dead limbs i...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret perches on dead limbs in the Indian River near Kennedy Space Center. A type of heron, the snowy egret inhabits salt marshes, ponds, rice fields and shallow coasta... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the bank of a pond on Kennedy Space Center, an alligator slides into the water, perhaps eyeing nearby prey. 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 KSC. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0879

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the bank of a pond on Kennedy Sp...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the bank of a pond on Kennedy Space Center, an alligator slides into the water, perhaps eyeing nearby prey. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their e... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A palm warbler looks for seeds among the branches of a tree on Kennedy Space Center. Palm warblers breed far to the north in Canada, and winter primarily in the southern United States and northern Caribbean. They breed in bogs, open boreal coniferous forest, and partly open situations with scattered trees and heavy undergrowth, usually near water. They are found in migration and winter in a variety of woodland, second growth and thicket habitats, on the ground in savanna and open fields, and in mangroves. Their diet consists of insects, some seeds and fruits in fall and winter. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0875

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A palm warbler looks for seeds among ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A palm warbler looks for seeds among the branches of a tree on Kennedy Space Center. Palm warblers breed far to the north in Canada, and winter primarily in the southern United... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A female anhinga roosts in branches near the water. Anhingas can be found in freshwater ponds and swamps where there is thick vegetation and tall trees. Male anhingas are black and gray; females are distinguished by a buff-colored neck and breast. When anhingas are in their breeding plumage they have a blue ring around their eyes, as seen here. The female lays three to five light blue eggs. The nest is in a tree and it is made of sticks and lined with leaves. The chicks hatch in about a month. Anhingas breed off the Gulf Coast and the Atlantic Coast from North Carolina to Texas and in the Mississippi Valley north to Kentucky and Missouri. They winter along the Gulf Coast north to North Carolina. The anhinga diet is primarily fish. Using their sharp bills, anhingas spear the fish, flip them in the air and swallow them head-first. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0881

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A female anhinga roosts in branches ne...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A female anhinga roosts in branches near the water. Anhingas can be found in freshwater ponds and swamps where there is thick vegetation and tall trees. Male anhingas are black ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- White pelicans gather in the shallow water of a lake near Kennedy Space Center. The birds breed from British Columbia and Mackenzie south to western Ontario and California and Texas coast. They winter from Florida and southern California south to Panama. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0872

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- White pelicans gather in the shallow ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- White pelicans gather in the shallow water of a lake near Kennedy Space Center. The birds breed from British Columbia and Mackenzie south to western Ontario and California and ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A female greater scaup duck (right) follows her mate through the water on Kennedy Space Center. Normally found in Alaska and northern Canada, this species winters along the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf coasts. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0873

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A female greater scaup duck (right) f...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A female greater scaup duck (right) follows her mate through the water on Kennedy Space Center. Normally found in Alaska and northern Canada, this species winters along the Atl... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Possibly a willet or a sandpiper in winter plumage, this bird nearly blends into the rocky background of the river bank on Kennedy Space Center. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0868

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Possibly a willet or a sandpiper in w...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Possibly a willet or a sandpiper in winter plumage, this bird nearly blends into the rocky background of the river bank on Kennedy Space Center. KSC shares a boundary with the ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret prepares for flight from its perch in the Indian River near Kennedy Space Center. 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. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0878

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret prepares for flight fro...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret prepares for flight from its perch in the Indian River near Kennedy Space Center. A type of heron, the snowy egret inhabits salt marshes, ponds, rice fields and s... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A delicate butterfly perches on a wild flower among the grasses on Kennedy Space Center. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0871

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A delicate butterfly perches on a wil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A delicate butterfly perches on a wild flower among the grasses on Kennedy Space Center. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge is a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A male greater scaup duck is mirrored in the water on Kennedy Space Center. Normally found in Alaska and northern Canada, this species winters along the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf coasts. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0874

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A male greater scaup duck is mirrored...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A male greater scaup duck is mirrored in the water on Kennedy Space Center. Normally found in Alaska and northern Canada, this species winters along the Atlantic, Pacific and G... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A taste of spring is heralded by the blooming of these flowers near a riverbank on Kennedy Space Center. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0880

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A taste of spring is heralded by the ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A taste of spring is heralded by the blooming of these flowers near a riverbank on Kennedy Space Center. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. T... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A white ibis looks for food from the edge of a sunken tree in the river near Kennedy Space Center. White ibis range along the coast from South Carolina to Florida and Texas, as far as the northern area of South America. They prefer marshy sloughs, mud flats, lagoons and swamp forests. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0870

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A white ibis looks for food from the ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A white ibis looks for food from the edge of a sunken tree in the river near Kennedy Space Center. White ibis range along the coast from South Carolina to Florida and Texas, as... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- What may be a yellow rat snake slithers through the grass on Kennedy Space Center. Yellow rat snakes are found throughout most of Florida and the Keys. They also live in a narrow strip along the Atlantic coast through Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina. They are often found in warm southern swamps, and are also common in abandoned buildings and barns. Besides rats, yellow rat snakes will eat a wide variety of small mammals, birds, and eggs. They are considered the best tree climbing snake in Florida. The scales on their bellies are squared off, which aids them tremendously with climbing. They are strong constrictors, and kill their prey by suffocation. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0867

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- What may be a yellow rat snake slithe...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- What may be a yellow rat snake slithers through the grass on Kennedy Space Center. Yellow rat snakes are found throughout most of Florida and the Keys. They also live in a narr... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret perches on dead limbs in the Indian River near Kennedy Space Center. 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. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0877

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret perches on dead limbs i...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A snowy egret perches on dead limbs in the Indian River near Kennedy Space Center. A type of heron, the snowy egret inhabits salt marshes, ponds, rice fields and shallow coasta... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A great blue heron watches warily near a canal on Kennedy Space Center. These herons inhabit lakes, ponds, rivers and marshes. They range throughout the United States. Fish and frogs are its principal food but will also feed on small mammals, reptiles and, occasionally, birds. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0866

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A great blue heron watches warily near...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A great blue heron watches warily near a canal on Kennedy Space Center. These herons inhabit lakes, ponds, rivers and marshes. They range throughout the United States. Fish an... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, this alligator achieves partial camouflage from the green algae. 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 KSC. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge 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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0882

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, th...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, this alligator achieves partial camouflage from the green algae. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens t... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A baby nine-banded armadillo makes its way along the roadside near Launch Pad 39A where Space Shuttle Endeavour waits for launch on mission STS-118. Introduced to Florida in the early 1900s, this species is found statewide in areas with dense ground cover and sandy soil. Nine bands of plates cover the body from shoulder to hip and 12 bands cover the long tail. It has a small, tapered head and snout and a long tongue. Its ears are long and hairless. and it has sparse white hairs on its belly. Its diet is composed of insects, especially beetles, and other invertebrates plus some plant foods such as cedars and beautyberries. It is primarily nocturnal, sedentary, solitary and a burrower. It digs a series of dens with multiple entrances usually protected by stumps, palmettos or trees. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-07pd2276

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A baby nine-banded armadillo makes its w...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A baby nine-banded armadillo makes its way along the roadside near Launch Pad 39A where Space Shuttle Endeavour waits for launch on mission STS-118. Introduced to Florida in the e... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An eastern diamondback rattlesnake warms in the sun near the NASA News Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and may exceed six feet in length. It lives throughout Florida in a variety of dry habitats, such as pinelands, scrub and golf courses. Kennedy 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/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3307

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An eastern diamondback rattlesnake warm...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An eastern diamondback rattlesnake warms in the sun near the NASA News Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and may exceed s... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An eastern diamondback rattlesnake slithers through the grass near the NASA News Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and may exceed six feet in length. It lives throughout Florida in a variety of dry habitats, such as pinelands, scrub and golf courses. Kennedy 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/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3308

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An eastern diamondback rattlesnake slit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An eastern diamondback rattlesnake slithers through the grass near the NASA News Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and ma... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This diamondback rattlesnake lies across the road near Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and may exceed six feet in length. It occurs throughout Florida in a variety of dry habitats, such as pinelands, scrub and golf courses. Kennedy 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/Kenny Allen KSC-08pd0575

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This diamondback rattlesnake lies across...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This diamondback rattlesnake lies across the road near Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and may exceed six feet i... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Spotted near Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this diamondback rattlesnake curls upon itself in a defensive posture. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and may exceed six feet in length. It occurs throughout Florida in a variety of dry habitats, such as pinelands, scrub and golf courses. Kennedy 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/Kenny Allen KSC-08pd0577

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Spotted near Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Ke...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Spotted near Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this diamondback rattlesnake curls upon itself in a defensive posture. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous sn... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Spotted near Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this diamondback rattlesnake curls upon itself in a defensive posture. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and may exceed six feet in length. It occurs throughout Florida in a variety of dry habitats, such as pinelands, scrub and golf courses. Kennedy 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/Kenny Allen KSC-08pd0578

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Spotted near Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Ke...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Spotted near Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, this diamondback rattlesnake curls upon itself in a defensive posture. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous sn... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This diamondback rattlesnake lies across the road near Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and may exceed six feet in length. It occurs throughout Florida in a variety of dry habitats, such as pinelands, scrub and golf courses. Kennedy 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/Kenny Allen KSC-08pd0576

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This diamondback rattlesnake lies across...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This diamondback rattlesnake lies across the road near Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and may exceed six feet i... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This Florida softshell turtle stretches its long neck and points its snorkel-like snout. A totally aquatic freshwater turtle, it prefers lakes and slow-moving rivers. It was spotted near the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The species main food is crayfish, fish, frogs, tadpoles and some vegetation. It ranges throughout all of Florida. Kennedy 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/Kenny Allen KSC-08pd1626

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This Florida softshell turtle stretches its...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This Florida softshell turtle stretches its long neck and points its snorkel-like snout. A totally aquatic freshwater turtle, it prefers lakes and slow-moving rivers. It was spotted n... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This Florida softshell turtle is caught out of the water near the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. A totally aquatic freshwater turtle, it prefers lakes and slow-moving rivers. The species main food is crayfish, fish, frogs, tadpoles and some vegetation. It ranges throughout all of Florida. Kennedy 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/Kenny Allen KSC-08pd1624

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This Florida softshell turtle is caught out o...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This Florida softshell turtle is caught out of the water near the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. A totally aquatic freshwater turtle, it prefers lakes and slow... 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. - Great white egrets stride through the tall grass in an area of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It is one of 310 species of birds that inhabit the National Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with Kennedy. 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. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd3166

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Great white egrets stride through the tall gr...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Great white egrets stride through the tall grass in an area of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It is one of 310 species of birds that inhabit the National Merritt Island Wildli... 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

Plants - Colorado 4 o'clock - Public Domain image, National Parks Gallery

Plants - Colorado 4 o'clock - Public Domain image, National Parks Gall...

DIGITAL CAMERA Public domain photograph of a wildflower close up, nature, flowers, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An eastern diamondback rattlesnake returns to its natural environs farther from the NASA News Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and may exceed six feet in length. It occurs throughout Florida in a variety of dry habitats, such as pinelands, scrub and golf courses. Kennedy 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-2009-2116

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An eastern diamondback rattlesnake returns to i...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An eastern diamondback rattlesnake returns to its natural environs farther from the NASA News Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The diamondback is Florida's largest venom... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An eastern diamondback rattlesnake is spotted next to a building at the NASA News Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake and may exceed six feet in length. It occurs throughout Florida in a variety of dry habitats, such as pinelands, scrub and golf courses. Kennedy 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-2009-2112

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An eastern diamondback rattlesnake is spotted n...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An eastern diamondback rattlesnake is spotted next to a building at the NASA News Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The diamondback is Florida's largest venomous snake an... 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

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