Merritt Island is also home to one of the first national parks, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge helps define who we are as Merritt Island residents.

The eco-tourism and the space center are central to so much of what we do and who we are. To honor this, Merritt Island Lacrosse chose the Florida Scrub Jay as our mascot.

The Scrub Jay is native to our area and one of the symbols of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. This threatened species has shown resilience in the face of environmental change. The Scrub Jay shows courage and strength in its defense of its territory and family but will eat out of the hand of a perceived friend.

For more information feel free to visit the Wildlife Refuge's web site at www.fws.gov/merrittisland/Index.html

Adaptability, Strength, Courage and Friendship are also traits that we strive for as residents of Merritt Island.