See the Difference: Florida’s Look-Alike Species Made Simple

Is that a cormorant or an anhinga? An alligator or a crocodile? Poison ivy or Virginia creeper?
If you’ve ever hesitated before answering, This or That? A Beginner’s Guide to Commonly Misidentified Animals and Plants in Florida is the resource you’ve been waiting for.

Developed by UF/IFAS experts, this handy field guide helps you distinguish Florida’s most confused plants and animals through clear descriptions and side-by-side photo comparisons. With more than 98 species featured, from native to invasive, harmless to venomous, This or That? makes learning about Florida’s incredible biodiversity both easy and fun.

A Smarter Way to Identify Florida Wildlife

The guide’s visual format sets it apart. Each page presents two similar species side by side, with their most distinguishing traits highlighted. Key differences—such as color, size, markings, or behavior—are explained in clear, plain language, allowing anyone to follow along.

Because it’s laminated and ring-bound, this pocket-sized book is perfect for the field, the classroom, or even a backyard adventure.

Examples You’ll Find Inside:

Animals

• American Alligator vs. American Crocodile – Learn subtle but critical distinctions between these iconic reptiles.
• Florida Panther vs. Bobcat – Discover how size, tail length, and footprints reveal which feline is which.
• Cuban Treefrog vs. Green Treefrog – Identify invasive species and protect native ones.
• Snowy Egret vs. Great Egret – Spot the clues in plumage and size.

Plants

• Water Hyacinth vs. Frog’s-Bit – Differentiate between two aquatic invaders that often grow side by side.
• Live Oak vs. Laurel Oak – Recognize the traits that set Florida’s most common oak trees apart.

A Must-Have for Nature Lovers and Educators

Perfect for students, naturalists, educators, and anyone curious about Florida’s wildlife, This or That? makes species identification simple and engaging. Use it to teach, manage land, or just enjoy exploring the outdoors with a sharper eye.

At 128 pages and just 6” x 4.5”, it fits easily in your backpack—or your glove compartment—for quick reference anytime.

Get your copy of This or That? at the UF/IFAS Bookstore

1