Fauna Foster
Support local conservation by symbolically fostering one of the amazing critters found in our aquatic preserves.
Your donation supports the management and protection of Tampa Bay's four aquatic preserves.
Every donor will receive:
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FTBAP annual membership
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Certificate of foster
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2 free stickers
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How it works
This fall, celebrate the launch of the Fauna Foster Program with Friends of Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves!
Each week, we will highlight one of the weird and wonderful creatures found in our backyard aquatic ecosystems.
Make a donation to symbolically foster your favorite fauna.
Every donation will receive a FTBAP annual membership, official certificate of foster, and two free stickers.
The first ten people to foster the featured fauna of the week will receive a limited edition linocut print!
DONATIONS WILL OPEN ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16TH AT 10 AM EST. A NEW FEATURED FAUNA WILL BE RELEASED EACH WEEK ON FRIDAYS AT 10 AM EST, WITH THE LAST RELEASE ON JANUARY 1ST, 2027.
Learn more about your contribution
Friends of Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves was founded in 2019 to support the staff who manage our local aquatic preserves. Donations fund education and outreach programming, habitat restoration, and supplies for projects like educational kiosks at public access sites.
Questions? Send us an email at info@tbapfriends.org.
Meet the Fauna Ambassadors
Check back Fridays at 10 AM EST to meet the featured fauna of the week!
Week 3
October 30, 2026
Week 4
November 6, 2026
Week 7
November 27, 2026
Week 5
November 13, 2026
Week 8
December 4, 2026
Week 6
November 20, 2026
Week 9
December 11, 2026
Week 10
December 18, 2026
Week 11
December 25, 2026
Week 12
January 1, 2027
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INTO THE WILDERNESS ART
Jess currently serves as the Secretary and Director for Friends of Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves, but she is also a talented artist and marine biologist!
Hi, I'm Jessie Lea! I'm a Florida wildlife artist, marine biologist, and science communicator inspired by Florida's rich biodiversity. I began my creative journey to share knowledge about Florida’s incredible wildlife and to inspire others to connect with nature. My art celebrates the local wildlife and unique ecosystems that make Florida so special, with the goal of fostering curiosity and encouraging conservation of our wild spaces.
Follow Jess on Instagram to explore her vibrant and fun wildlife art inspired by Florida!
Meet the Artist
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