In today’s episode we’re talking about Florida’s state saltwater mammal, the dolphin. We will discuss why it’s not technically correct to call them a porpoise, some fascinating behaviors they exhibit the exemplify their intelligence, some basic biology and more.

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources:

In today’s episode we’re talking about Florida’s state freshwater fish, the Florida bass. We will discuss why it’s no longer called the largemouth bass, where they can be found, how they survive and support our freshwater ecosystems and more.  

Learn More: 

Florida Bass/Largemouth Bass - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/freshwater/largemouth-bass/  

State Freshwater Fish - https://dos.fl.gov/florida-facts/florida-state-symbols/state-freshwater-fish/  

Florida Bass Research - https://myfwc.com/research/freshwater/sport-fishes/florida-bass/  

How You Can Help:  

Encourage aquatic plant management in your community, if you have natural lakes. Diverse, abundant submerged aquatic plants help with water clarity. A goal of 50% submerged lake bottom coverage by native plant species is highly correlated with higher water clarity and less algae.  

Get a fishing license or one of specialty license plates - https://myfwc.com/license/recreational/freshwater-fishing/  

Learn about the Trophy Catch program - https://license.gooutdoorsflorida.com/Angler/Home  

Sources: 

Phylogenomics and species delimitation of the economically important Black Basses (Micropterus) - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9170712/  

Aging: Biologists use otiliths to determine the age of fish - https://myfwc.com/research/freshwater/fisheries-resources/techniques/aging/  

Trophic state indicators are a better predictor of Florida bass condition compared to temperature in Florida’s freshwater bodies - https://klwilson.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/trophic-state-predicts-bass-condition-boucek-et-al-2017.pdf  

The largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides (Lacepe`de, 1802): impacts of a powerful freshwater fish predator outside of its native range - https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s11160-019-09570-2.pdf  

In today’s episode we’re talking about the mysterious and massive horse conch, Florida’s state shell. We will discuss the meaning behind its common and scientific name, what it looks like, where it’s found, research on population numbers, some fascinating behaviors and benefits of this species, and of course, what each of us can do to help support our state shell, the horse conch. 

Learn More: 

VIDEO: Giant Horse Conch & Burglar Hermit Crabs (Blue Planet, BBC Earth) - https://youtu.be/P_hBp1sEwfs?si=Du1L_g7JXjSoN7n7  

Shell of the Week: The Horse Conch - https://shellmuseum.org/blog/shell-of-the-week-the-horse-conch/  

Sea Wonder: Horse Conch - https://marinesanctuary.org/blog/sea-wonder-horse-conch/  

How You Can Help:  

Support your local National Marine Sanctuary - https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/  

Document sightings on iNaturalist - https://www.inaturalist.org/  

Visit and support the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium, host of the largest horse conch in the world - https://shellmuseum.org/  

Participate in beach cleanups and local restoration projects, and support organizations working to protect Florida's waterways.  

Sources: 

Age and growth of one of the world’s largest carnivorous gastropods, the Florida Horse Conch, Triplofusus giganteus (Kiener, 1840), a target of unregulated, intense harvest - https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0265095  

Sea Wonder: Horse Conch - https://marinesanctuary.org/blog/sea-wonder-horse-conch/ 

Mighty, the Horse Conch - https://shellmuseum.org/blog/mighty-the-horse-conch/  

In today’s episode we’re talking about Florida’s state butterfly, the zebra longwing: what it looks like, where it’s found, its life cycle, some fun and unique behaviors, and of course, what each of us can do to help support the zebra longwing butterfly. 

Learn More: 

Zebra Longwing Butterfly (Heliconius charithonia) - https://www.fs.usda.gov/wildflowers/pollinators/pollinator-of-the-month/zebra_longwing.shtml  

Zebra Longwing - https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/100-years/object/zebra-longwing/  

Zebra longwing -  https://www.flawildflowers.org/know-your-native-pollinators-zebra-longwing/  

How You Can Help:  

Plant host and nectar/pollen plants (Ex. passionflower vine for eggs/larvae and firebush, tropical sage, Spanish needle and more for the adults) - https://www.flawildflowers.org/know-your-native-pollinators-zebra-longwing/  

Consider creating a butterfly watering station - https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/design/gardening-with-wildlife/providing-water-to-wildlife/  

Consider purchasing a “State Wildflower” tag (license plate) and support valuable research, the planting and protection of hundred of acres of wildflower pollinator pathways and school wildflower gardens, and overall increased environmental awareness - https://www.flawildflowers.org/wildflower-tag/    

Sources: 

Patterns of pollen collection and flower visitation by Heliconius butterflies in southeastern Mexico - https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-tropical-ecology/article/abs/patterns-of-pollen-collection-and-flower-visitation-by-heliconius-butterflies-in-southeastern-mexico/3E9698939DC97C3051261F38DBC078D8  

Dynamics of a subtropical population of the zebra longwing butterfly heliconius charithonia (nymphalidae) -  https://bioone.org/journals/florida-entomologist/volume-88/issue-2/0015-4040_2005_088_0169_DOASPO_2.0.CO_2/DYNAMICS-OF-A-SUBTROPICAL-POPULATION-OF-THE-ZEBRA-LONGWING-BUTTERFLY/10.1653/0015-4040(2005)088%5b0169:DOASPO%5d2.0.CO;2.full  

State Butterfly: Zebra Longwing - https://dos.fl.gov/florida-facts/florida-state-symbols/state-butterfly/  

Florida is known for having alligators, a fact that brings fear to many visitors and residents. But, alligators are an important species in many of our ecosystems. While we continue to develop the State, our chances of encountering an alligator increase, but there are many ways we can learn to coexist with them.

Celebrate Earth Month with us as we revisit a favorite topic from season 1 with a freshly re-edited Alligator episode.

Learn more:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

In today’s episode we’re talking about Florida’s state animal, The Florida panther: where it lives, how it lives, the conservation wins that brought it back from the brink, and what each of us can do to help panthers and people coexist in a rapidly growing state 

Learn More: 

Florida Panther Program - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/panther/  

Wildlife Watch: Learn to protect the Florida panther during critical breeding season with Ask IFAS’ bilingual guide -  https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/2026/02/12/wildlife-watch-learn-to-protect-the-florida-panther-during-critical-breeding-season-with-ask-ifas-bilingual-guide/  

The Florida Panther: A Passageway to Success - https://www.fws.gov/story/2022-04/florida-panther  

Panther Pulse - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/panther/pulse/  

How You Can Help:  

Slow down in posted panther zones, especially at dawn/dusk/night 

Report injured/dead panthers to 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922)

Report sighting of Florida panther - https://app.myfwc.com/hsc/panthersightings/  

Support land conservation  programs and efforts - call your elected officials!

Consider a “Protect the Panther” tag and support local conservation partners -https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/panther/plate/  

Sources: 

The Florida Panther: Past, Present, and Future https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW402  

Wildlife of Florida Factsheet: Florida Panther https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW467  

Florida Panther Program - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/panther/  

Today, we’re discussing Florida’s state bird, the Northern Mockingbird: how it earned that title, how to recognize it, who it’s often confused with, and the meaning behind some of their behaviors.

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources:

Today, we’re diving into what makes the sabal palmetto special—from its biology and wildlife value to its cultural history—and how Floridians can help protect and support this iconic native plant. 

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources:

In this episode, we explain how hurricanes impact ecosystems and the wildlife that live there. We’ll discuss behaviors of wildlife before, during and after a storm, how these events impact wildlife, and what to keep in mind when it comes to encountering wildlife after a storm.  

Learn More:

• Wildlife and Storms: Hurricanes and Wildlife - https://myfwc.com/news/wildlife-and-storms/

• Are Fish Impacted by Hurricanes? https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/are-fish-impacted-hurricanes

• Hurricane Impacts on Florida’s Agriculture and Natural Resources - https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/105526

How You Can Help:

• Give wildlife space to recover after storms — avoid unnecessary “rescues.”

• Report fish kills by calling the Fish Kill Hotline: 800-636-0511 or report a fish kill online.

• Support dune restoration, wetland cleanup events, and native plantings.

• Report injured wildlife to licensed rehabbers or FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline. FWC’ s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC

Sources:

• The Impact of Hurricane Andrew on the Ecosystems of South Florida - https://www.jstor.org/stable/2386357

• The effects of hurricanes on birds, with special reference to Caribbean islands - https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/bird-conservation-international/article/effects-of-hurricanes-on-birds-with-special-reference-to-caribbean-islands/BB2E910A038B98090BB331310C163DC7

• Short-Term Demographic Responses of a Coastal Waterbird Community After Two Major Hurricanes - https://bioone.org/journals/waterbirds/volume-36/issue-1/063.036.0113/Short-Term-Demographic-Responses-of-a-Coastal-Waterbird-Community-After/10.1675/063.036.0113.short

• Geographical variation in hurricane impacts among sea turtle populations - https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jbi.12197

In this episode, we explain how hurricanes cause inland flooding through extreme rainfall and connected watershed systems. We’ll discuss why Florida’s flat terrain and development patterns make inland flooding so persistent, how these events impact water quality and wildlife, and what practical steps Floridians can take to protect their homes and communities. 

Learn More:

Sources:

On today’s episode, we will do a deep dive into the topic ofstorm surge. What is storm surge? What are the impacts of storm surge to us and our natural systems? We will also help you understand the risk of stormsurge where you live.

Episode script reviewed by Lauren Wolf, Holly Abeels, andArmando Ubeda.

Episode recording reviewed by Stephen Mullens.

Learn more:

How you can help:

Sources for this Episode:

This episode is part 1 of our summer hurricane series! Today, we're talking about how hurricanes form, why they spin, and what the "categories" mean when we talk about storms.

Also, we would like to extend a huge THANK YOU toStephen Mullens, a fellow faculty member at the University of Florida, for reviewing our episode content for accuracy. Stephan is an expert in forecasting and impacts related to hurricanes and thunderstorms.

Learn More:

Sources:

Green anoles are some of Florida’s most familiar—and most overlooked—neighbors.

In this episode of Naturally Florida, we revisit our very first show from 2020 to explore what makes these little lizards so unique, how they interact with the introduced Cuban brown anole, and what you can do to help them thrive in your own backyard.

Learn more:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Happy Lakes Appreciation Month!

This month, we dive into water quality and what it really means for freshwater systems. You'll hear a lot of scientific jargon this month, but we tried to define everything as we used it. This will help you talk to your local watershed, river, or lake managers!

How You Can Help:

Learn More:

In this episode, we explore the unique ecology of scrub habitat in Florida. What is a scrub? Where are they located?How are they different from similar ecosystems? How does fire play a role in scrub habitats? What threats do scrub habitats face? What can you do about it? We cover this and more in this episode of Naturally Florida.  

Learn More:

• Florida Natural Areas Inventory: Scrub -https://www.fnai.org/PDFs/NC/Scrub_Final_2010.pdf

• Topographpic map, elevation, terrain -https://en-ca.topographic-map.com/map-x1rv5k/Polk-County/

• Calamintha bee (Shannon mentioned in episode) -https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/science/discover-nest-northern-range-blue-calamintha-bee/

• Scrub and High Pine - https://programs.ifas.ufl.edu/florida-land-steward/forest-resources/upland-forest-ecosystems/scrub-and-high-pine/

• Common Woody Plants of Florida Scrub Ecosystems- https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR373

• Florida Scrub -https://crocdoc.ifas.ufl.edu/publications/msrpmap/floridascrub/

How You Can Help:

• Florida scrub is globally rare and incredibly unique, supporting plants and animals found nowhere else. Speak up and advocate for the preservation of the special natural lands. Needs some inspiration, check out the GladysE. Douglas Preserve story.

• Fire is essential in scrub habitats—without it, the ecosystem collapses and species disappear. Be sure to support and advocate for prescribed fires in your area.

• Scrub may look barren, but it’s a biodiversity hotspot—an ecological gem hiding in plain sight. See if you can find a scrub habitat near you to visit!

Sources for this Episode:

• Florida Natural Areas Inventory: Scrub -https://www.fnai.org/PDFs/NC/Scrub_Final_2010.pdf

• Scrub and High Pine - https://programs.ifas.ufl.edu/florida-land-steward/forest-resources/upland-forest-ecosystems/scrub-and-high-pine/

• Common Woody Plants of Florida Scrub Ecosystems- https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR373

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations⁠

In this episode, we'll discuss the three different species of mangroves found in Florida, their northward migration, and the critical role they play in our coastal ecosystems. We'll also share practical actions you can take to help protect these vital habitats.

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

Vultures can be seen throughout Florida, whether soaring in the air or feeding on the ground, visitor or resident, we have all encountered vultures in Florida. We actually have two species of vultures in Florida, the black vulture and the turkey vulture. While they may seem clumsy and not the most attractive birds, they play a critical role in our ecosystem. Learn how to tell these two species apart and the importance of these birds to our natural world. 

Learn More:  

How You Can Help: 

Sources: 

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, join our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations⁠⁠⁠

Florida’s Oaks - https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/florida-oaks/  

The Little Oaks – Part I: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellasco/2019/07/11/the-little-oaks-part-i/  

The Little Oaks – Part II: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellasco/2019/08/12/the-little-oaks-part-ii/  

Previous Episodes Referenced: 

Stormwater Episode: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/where-does-rain-go-after-it-falls/id1573268305?i=1000526291174 ⁠ 

Intro to Urban Forestry Episode: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trees-and-people-an-intro-to-urban-forestry/id1573268305?i=1000533017933 ⁠ 

How You Can Help: 

Take advantage of oak leaf fall by utilizing the leaves as mulch - https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/2021/03/06/fallen-oak-leaves-make-a-great-mulch/  

Get your tree checked out by a certified arborist and setup a pruning plan! ⁠https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/findanarborist⁠ 

Consider planting an oak, but make sure you plant the right tree in the right place  - https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/oak-trees/  

Sources: 

Oak Forest Ecosystems: Ecology and Management for Wildlife - https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=tcH8EAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA182&dq=benefits+of+acorns&ots=WALVLyqyi5&sig=mhZ24zuxMYjsasR4GxUBTxpAuTA#v=onepage&q=benefits%20of%20acorns&f=false 

Abscission - https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/abscission 

On today's episode, you'll hear about a few of our non-native lizards and learn about the complexity of when a species may or may not be called invasive.

Learn more:

How you can help:

While much of the country waits until late April to celebrate Arbor Day, Florida marks the occasion several months sooner. Our subtropical climate makes it safe—and even beneficial—to plant trees during the cooler, drier winter months (with proper irrigation). By doing this now, young saplings have time to develop strong root systems beforefacing the intense heat and storms of the summer season. Perhaps you recently attended an Arbor Day event, or took home a tree to plant in your yard. This episode explores Florida Arbor Day and tips for caring for your tree.

Learn more:

Economic Contributions of UrbanForestry in Florida in 2017 - https://ccmedia.fdacs.gov/content/download/94000/file/FLUrbanForestry_Infographic.pdf

Wind and Trees: Lessons Learnedfrom Hurricanes (Mentioned by Shannon) - https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/woody/documents/FR173.pdf

How You Can Help:

Plant a tree! Watch this video tolearn how: https://youtu.be/HXdlsJ451b8?si=uy9JFBluX-HjeJCp&t=37

Prune your maturing or mature trees,to ensure they are storm resistant and healthy.

Go to https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarboristto find a certified tree expert to help maintain your trees.

Sources for this Episode: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FR/FR17400.pdf 

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fr173 

https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/2017/09/08/471/ 

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fr175 

http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/trees-that-can-withstand-hurricanes.html 

Arbor Day 2024 ‑History & Facts | HISTORY 

Planting andEstablishing Trees – Gardening Solutions 

https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist 

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, join our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:⁠⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations⁠⁠

THANK YOU to all our loyal listeners that completed our annual podcast survey! If you missed out, no worries, you can give us feedback anytime on our website or try again next year starting in the Fall when we launch our survey again.  

In this episode, we explore the world of oysters. What are they? What do they do? What happens when they die? Eastern oysters play a critical role in Florida’s estuarine habitats, supporting hundreds of species big and small. Learn all about oysters and how you can support them in this episode.

Learn More:

• Eastern Oyster -https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/eastern-oyster

• Eastern Oyster Biology -⁠ https://myfwc.com/research/saltwater/mollusc/eastern-oysters/biology/

• Oyster Reef Habitat -https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/habitat-conservation/oyster-reef-habitat

How You Can Help:

• Consider installing a vertical oyster garden off your dock, or paint one to hang as décor in your home as a talking point for family and friends. Reach out to your local Florida Sea Grant Agent to find out if you have VOG efforts in your county.  

• Keep eating oysters! By consuming oysters, you are supporting the oyster industry and the restoration efforts throughout Florida utilizing recycling oyster shell for living shoreline projects and more!

Sources for this Episode:

• TBEP Oyster Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) -https://tampabay.wateratlas.usf.edu/oyster-habitat-suitability/

• Historical ecology with real numbers: past and present extent and biomass of an imperiled estuarine habitat -http://www.oyster-restoration.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/zuErmgassen_etal_historical_ecology_2012.pdf •What is a bivalve mollusk?https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/bivalve.html

•Oyster Shell Recycling Pilot Program -⁠⁠ https://pinellas.gov/programs/oyster-shell-recycling-pilot-program/

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations⁠

On today's episode we're talking turkey - the wild turkey, that is! Learn all about Florida's wild turkey species, their biology, and even bust a myth or two.

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources:

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the state’s most fascinating plant groups: carnivorous plants. These spooky species have adapted to capture prey in some of Florida’s most nutrient-poor environments. We’ll talk about how they trap their meals, their role in the ecosystem, and where you can spot these unique plants across the state.

Learn More:

• Pinellas Predatory Plants -https://youtu.be/gG0XNhSnSvQ?si=_27ONm-oA3pNOHH6

• Carnivorous Plants -https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/carnivorous-plants/

• Carnivorous plants – novel natives with showy flowers -https://www.flawildflowers.org/2022-spring-bloom-report/

• Carnivorous Plants – Both Rare and Well Done – Along the Apalachicola – UPDATED -https://blog.wfsu.org/blog-coastal-health/2022/04/carnivorous-plants-both-rare-and-well-done-along-the-apalachicola/

•Florida’s Carnivorous Plants -https://ifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/p-1728-floridas-carnivorous-plants.aspx

How You Can Help:

• Do Not Poach them! Many of the species are state or federally threatened, due to illegal harvesting from the wild and the destruction of their wetland habitats. Seeds or plants can be purchased from reputable nurseries and seed sources. Many species available for purchase are native to Florida and can be grown in rain gardens or in sunny spots.

• Support habitat restoration and maintenance through prescribed fire. In Florida, many of these species are also fire dependent, like the ecosystems they grow in – yes, even the wetlands!

• Build memories with these species – seek them out, learn about them with your friends and family - https://www.flawildflowers.org/2022-spring-bloom-report/

Sources for this Episode:

Pinellas Predatory Plants -⁠https://youtu.be/gG0XNhSnSvQ?si=_27ONm-oA3pNOHH6 ⁠

• Carnivorous Plants -⁠https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/carnivorous-plants/ ⁠

• Carnivorous plants – novel natives with showy flowers -⁠ https://www.flawildflowers.org/2022-spring-bloom-report/ ⁠

• Carnivorous Plants – Both Rare and Well Done – Along the Apalachicola – UPDATED -⁠https://blog.wfsu.org/blog-coastal-health/2022/04/carnivorous-plants-both-rare-and-well-done-along-the-apalachicola/ ⁠

•Florida’s Carnivorous Plants -⁠https://ifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/p-1728-floridas-carnivorous-plants.aspx ⁠

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Pollinators are the unsung heroes of Florida’s ecosystems, supporting the reproduction of our flowering plants in urban, suburban and natural areas. Pollinator populations are declining, and organizations are urging people to take action to support pollinators in their areas of influence. There is a lot of buzz around the topics of pollinators these days, but who are they? What are they doing? Where do they go? Find out this and more in today’s episode.  

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode: 

If the title of this episode sounds familiar, you must be a Creedance Clearwater Revival fan like Shannon is!

Well, CCR might have actually been singing about seeing the rain but on today's episode of Naturally Florida, we're talking about smelling the rain. Rather, more accurately, we're talking about the smell before the rain, also known as Petrichor.

Learn more:

Sources:

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is an iconic plant of Florida, often dominating the understory of pine flatwoods habitats. Not only is saw palmetto endemic to Florida and the southeastern U.S., but it has also been referred to as a keystone species! A plant as a keystone species? YES!  

Keystone Species - a species on which other species in an ecosystem largely depend, such that if it were removed the ecosystem would change drastically. 

For most of the year, saw palmetto fronds stand proud and upright showcasing their unique fan-shaped leaves with long, stiff, pointed leaflets and spikey leaf stems. They reflect the sun’s rays with their waxy coated, muted green and sometimes yellow leaves. From far away, saw palmetto may seem to serve little benefit to the environment other than taking up a lot of space. Upon closer inspection, saw palmetto create their own little world for numerous wildlife species big and small. 

Learn More:  

Parsing Through the Palmettos (blog by Lara): https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellasco/2018/02/13/palmettos/  

Fire Effects Information System – Species: Serenoa repens https://www.fs.usda.gov/database/feis/plants/shrub/serrep/all.html  

The Diversity of Insects Visiting Flowers of Saw Palmetto (Arecaceae): https://www.jstor.org/stable/23268495  

How You Can Help:  

Protect saw palmetto where you can (your yard, speak up if plans to remove at local park/neighborhood)  

Report poachers by calling your local non-emergency number or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Wildlife Alert Hotline  

Plant saw palmetto where you can. You can find a native plant nursery near you: https://www.fann.org/  

Support prescribed burning financially or through letters of support to your elected officials 

Sources for this Episode:  

The Diversity of Insects Visiting Flowers of Saw Palmetto (Arecaceae): https://www.jstor.org/stable/23268495 

Pollination Biology of Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) in Southwestern Florida: https://palms.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/vol47n2p95-103.pdf  

The Quarterly Journal of the Florida Native Plant Society: Palmetto. The Palmetto Issues, Volume 33: Number 3 > 2016: https://www.fnps.org/assets/pdf/palmetto_issues/Palmetto_33-3.pdf  

The marsh rabbit is a medium-sized rabbit with short, rounded ears, and small feet. It is similar in appearance to the more familiar eastern cottontail rabbit but without the white color of their tail. The marsh rabbit is found in the southeastern United States from southeast Virginia (in the Dismal Swamp), along the east coast to eastern Alabama, and the Florida peninsula and the islands along the coast of Florida. There is a subspecies of the marsh rabbit, which is endangered and only found in (endemic to) the lower Florida Keys. Marsh rabbits live near freshwater and brackish marshes and wet prairies and can even be found in flooded agricultural fields. The main threat to marsh rabbits is habitat loss from human development and fragmentation. Their population also declines due to hurricanes and coastal flooding. This is especially true for the Lower Keys Marsh Rabbit. The Lower Keys Marsh Rabbit population has been declining since at least the 1960s because of the loss and degradation of suitable habitats because of human development. The Lower Keys Marsh Rabbit was once common throughout the Lower Florida Keys (the Lower Florida Keys begins at Big Pine Key and ends at the island of Key West) but is now only found on 13 islands. Sea level rise has been projected to seriously threaten the population and its ability to survive on these islands. The threat of sea level rise has grown because these coastal ecosystems cannot migrate inland due to human development and infrastructure, often called coastal squeeze.   Learn More:  

Lower Keys Rabbit: https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/lower-keys-rabbit/  

Lower Keys Marsh Rabbit: https://www.fws.gov/species/lower-keys-marsh-rabbit-sylvilagus-palustris-hefneri  

Marsh Rabbit: https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/marsh-rabbit/  

This or That? Eastern Cottontail or Marsh Rabbit: https://youtu.be/maFhVuEC6jU  

How You Can Help:  

Get involved with your local city or county leaders and elected officials. Advocate for low impact development, green infrastructure and living shorelines where possible. 

Keep your cat indoors and do not support feeding of feral cat populations.  

Practice sustainable tourism when visiting the Florida Keys or anywhere in Florida. Check out Car Free Key West (https://www.carfreekeywest.com/), Florida Green Lodging (https://floridadep.gov/osi/green-lodging), and the Florida Friendly Fishing Guide Certification Program (https://www.flseagrant.org/fisheries/florida-friendly-fishing-guide-certification-program/)  

Sources for this Episode:  

Impacts of a half century of sea-level rise and development on an endangered mammal: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.12024  

Population Estimation and Monitoring of an Endangered Lagomorph: https://www.jstor.org/stable/41418016  

Lower Keys Rabbit: https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/lower-keys-rabbit/  

In this episode, we explore the mosquitoes of Florida, covering everything from mosquito biology, types of mosquitoes, mosquito surveillance and control, and ways you can yourself from these important, but sometimes pesky insects.

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

Special thanks to Alissa Berro, Section Manager, Public Works, Pinellas County for assistance in the script writing of this episode.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

In this episode, we explore the mosquitoes of Florida, covering everything from mosquito biology, types of mosquitoes, mosquito surveillance and control, and ways you can yourself from these important, but sometimes pesky insects.

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

Special thanks to Alissa Berro, Section Manager, Public Works, Pinellas County for assistance in the script writing of this episode.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Today's episode is all about Florida's pink birds, including the iconic roseate spoonbill and American flamingo.

Learn More:

How to Help:

Sources:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

In this episode, we explore the two species of skunks found in Florida. A mammal that is so unique, it recently divided from a subfamily of the weasel to become its own family, a stinky one! There is a lot to learn about these mysterious creatures. We will explore the species of life history of Florida’s skunks, where you can find them, some fun skunk behavior and more! ⁠ Learn More: 

Eastern Spotted Skunk Conservation Plan - Microsoft Word - ESS Conservation Plan July82019 (weebly.com) 

Skunks - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/skunks/ 

Living with Skunks - myfwc.com/media/25513/livingwithskunks.pdf 

How You Can Help: 

FWC is interested in collecting carcasses of eastern spotted skunks for future genetic analyses. If you observe a deceased spotted skunk, please email skunks@myfwc.com.

You can report both species of skunks (dead or alive) on iNaturalist - https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations  

 If you see a skunk, it is not cause for alarm...don’t call a wildlife trapper, just let it be. 

Sources for this Episode: 

Eastern Spotted Skunk Conservation Plan - Microsoft Word - ESS Conservation Plan July82019 (weebly.com) 

Skunks - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/skunks/ 

Eastern Spotted Skunk Cooperative Study Group - https://easternspottedskunk.weebly.com/  

How do you feel about snakes? Not a fan? Well, while we believe snakes are friends, not foes, we recognize it may be comforting to know that the vast majority of snakes in Florida are non-venomous and largely cannot hurt you or your family. On today's episode, we go on a deep dive about Florida's venomous snakes.

Learn more:

Calls to action:

Sources:

Manatees are Florida’s gentle giants and are a sight to behold. They are state and federally protected species under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978 according to FWC. These gentle giants are Florida’s true natives, and we need to be respectful of these creatures when entering water ways. The goal is to actively co-exist with Florida wildlife. To properly do this we must first learn where we can find manatees, why we can find them in freshwater during the winter months, what they eat, and how we can protect these gentle creatures.  

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:⁠⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Florida black bears have been in the news, frequently, this year! On today's episode, we chat about the Florida black bear's diet, behavior, and biology, and provide some tips for co-existing with our resident bears.

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

THANK YOU to all of our loyal listeners! Has this podcast made a difference in your life?

If you live in Florida, chances are you have heard or read about “harmful algal blooms" commonly referred to as HABs. We have received many requests for an episode on this topic, so…here it is! What are algae? What is a HAB? Are all algae bad? Learn this and more in today’s episode.

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:⁠⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations⁠⁠

THANK YOU to all of our loyal listeners! Has this podcast made a difference in your life?

Although fireworks are a staple for celebrations around the world, the explosives almost always contain pollutants like heavy metals, perchlorates, and aerosols, which harm air and water quality. The noise and flashes can startle many organisms, sometimes leading to nesting birds scattering, leaving their young vulnerable to predators. The good news is, there are many alternatives to traditional fireworks shows— making the switch would help protect Florida wildlife and ecosystems.  Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations⁠

In this episode, we continue our exploration of the sounds of summer. This episode’s focus is all about commonly heard frogs in Florida. We have 33 species of frog in the state. More often heard than seen, this episode features six frog species, including some basic physical and audio identification information, habitats, what you can do to help, and more!

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

The creepiest, crawliest, grossest of arachnids, in our opinion, are ticks. And no, we don't feel bad calling them gross!

Tick-borne illnesses can wreak havoc on people's lives and there is still so much we don't know about them. On today's episode, learn what we DO know about ticks in Florida, the diseases they may carry, and what to do to protect yourself, your family, and your friends from ticks.

Learn More:  

Florida-specific tick information: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/family-resources/ticks-and-disease/ (UF/IFAS) and https://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/tick-and-insect-borne-diseases/index.html (FL Dept. of Health) The CDC has a wonderful tool to identify the best insect repellants for various activities. Scroll to the bottom of this page to learn, "How to choose the right insect repellent": https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/find-repellent-right-you (CDC) More information on the diseases Ticks can carry and where they are found: ⁠https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/diseases/index.html⁠  (CDC)

Call to Action: 

Learn about tick-bite prevention! That's really our only Call to Action this month.

Preventing Tick bites before going outdoors, and after: https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/avoid/on_people.html (CDC) Dog checks: https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/avoid/on_pets.html (CDC)

Sources for Show Notes: 

What comes to mind when you think of summer? Hot. Beaches. No school. What about singing insects? No? Perhaps not, but we’re sure you’ve heard the sounds of summer. Nobody sounds the alarm for summer weather like our native cicadas. Find out about them and more in today’s episode.  

Learn more: 

Common Grasshoppers in Florida - https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN010  

Cicadas of Florida - ⁠https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/misc/bugs/cicadas.htm 

Singing Insects of North America - https://orthsoc.org/sina/index.htm  

Eastern Lubber Grasshopper - https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN132  

How You Can Help: 

Leave portions of your yard unmown 

Reduce use of lawn chemicals 

Be tolerant of chewed leaves 

Sources for this Episode: 

Singing Insects of North America - https://orthsoc.org/sina/index.htm  

Songs of Insects – A Guide to the Voices of Crickets, Katydids & Cicadas - http://songsofinsects.com/  

Singing Insects: Our Overlooked Outside Chorus - https://youtu.be/VBVzeV8sKXQ  

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here! 

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: ⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations 

On today’s episode, you’ll learn about three non-venomous snake species common to residential areas in Florida. Slithering into a neighborhood near you, these common snake species are found all over Florida.

Learn More:

Call to Action:

Sources for the show:

We have all probably interacted with pine cones in some way, whether we collected them to start a bon fire, rolled them in peanut butter to create a bird feeder, or avoided them during pollen season. Pine trees produce pine cones, a unique seed with a fascinating science and ecological importance for Florida’s ecosystems.

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

When people think of Florida and visiting the sights, what do they think of? For most people, it’s some combination of alligators, flamingos, manatees, and sea turtles with a sprinkling of Disney World, Kennedy Space Center, and the beaches. This episode explores the truth about iconic Florida.

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

You’ve probably heard that habitat destruction is a common cause of population declines for many wildlife species. It’s critical for us to do what we can in our yards, neighborhoods and communities to help support wildlife by providing food, water, shelter and space. In this episode, we discuss ten tips you can consider implementing where you have influence.

Welcome to Naturally Florida, a podcast about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here. 

Submit comments and topic suggestions to our website, www.naturallyfloridapodcast.com

This podcast is brought to you by UF/IFAS Extension, an Equal Opportunity Institution. 

In this episode of Naturally Florida, Shannon answers a few Listener questions! She'll tackle a light-hearted Florida Christmas classic, "Why do iguanas fall out of trees when it gets cold?" as well as shed some light about "good or bad" species like queen palms and Carolina laurel cherry, and finally, wrap up with a South Florida conundrum, "What can be done about a nuisance peacock?"

If YOU have a question for Shannon and Lara, you can leave it here: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=-KBNDTFKdk2s5gpiMx4bhAZcX_k6UeBKkWoRGrhGBkVUN0lVVk4wMVgyMUVDVkgxMFpUNjlPS1FRSy4u

Naturally Florida will pull questions from this form for future Q&A episodes, or, may occasionally add a question to a normal episode.

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

The gopher tortoise is not only a keystone species, but also an endemic species, making it special and important to the overall function of the ecosystems where it is found. In this episode we will explore the life of the gopher tortoise including some basic identification information, population status, biology, and things you can to do help populations in Florida. 

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Mummies, Ghosts, and Goblins – oh my! This spooky season, we're chatting about Florida’s bats! 

Thirteen species of bats call Florida home, yearround, and several more migrate in from the north or south at certain times of year. These amazing flying mammals, the only mammal with true flight, provide highly valuable pest management services for Floridians.  

So, while you may see some spooky vampire bats this month on TV or in the movies, remember - Florida bats eat insects … they don’t suck blood! 

Learn more: 

How You Can Help: 

Sources for this Episode: 

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

The state of Florida is famous for its sunshine, beaches, and summertime fun. However, as Floridians, we know that summer also means thunderstorms, and thunder doesn’t happen without lightning. 

In this episode, we will explore the basic science of lightning and thunder, and how you can keep yourself safe this summer. We hope this brief introduction to thunderstorms in Florida will help you feel more informed and prepared for our summer rainy season.

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Thunderstorm sound clips licensed from Bidgee, CC BY-SA 3.0 AU, via Wikimedia Commons

In our last episode, we discussed how rodenticides, also known as rat poisons, can have a negative impact on our birds of prey. Today, we’ll be talking about Florida’s five resident owl species and how to identify them by the calls they make. These owls are valuable predators in our local ecosystems, both rural and urban, and can be easily identified with just a little practice.

Learn more:

Owl Calls:

How You Can Help:

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Nobody likes pests, hence why pesticides were invented. Rodenticides are a specific type of pesticide used to control rats and mice, but they can have impacts throughout the food chain if not used correctly. In this episode, we will explore the science behind rodenticides, the impact of rodenticides, and of course, best management practices when it comes to controlling rodents in our yards and neighborhoods.

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How You Can Help:

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Plastic pollution has been a known problem for decades, but more recently researchers have been focusing on this idea of microplastics, that is plastic particles about 5mm in size or smaller. Where do microplastics come from? What are the threats? And what can we do? Find out in this episode. 

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How You Can Help:

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here! 

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Cane toads are well known for posing a threat to our pets. They are one of many invasive animal species we have here in Florida. In this episode you will learn all about this invasive toad species, how it became established in Florida, impacts of its presence, and ways you can help.

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How You Can Help:

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Coyotes have been in Florida since the 1970s but still feel like a relatively new species for many. In this episode, Shannon and Lara explore the latest research, facts, findings, and realities of living with coyotes.

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How You Can Help:

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

The University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is a federal-state-county partnership dedicated to developing knowledge in agriculture, human and natural resources, and the life sciences. Join Lara and Shannon as they interview Dr. J. Scott Angle, UF Senior Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources and leader of UF/IFAS.

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Florida is a hotspot for nonnative and invasive species, but there hasn't been a consistent way to talk about these species until now. In this episode, we explore the various words biologists, park rangers, the public, and news media use to describe nonnative and invasive species. We will define and explain invasive species vocabulary and clarify what these words mean. 

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How You Can Help:

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Florida is known for being hot in the summer, but Florida cities are even hotter. Energy from the sun gets absorbed by buildings and paved areas (like roads) which makes the whole urban area significantly hotter than natural areas. This is a phenomenon known as an urban heat island. Today we are going to explore urban heat islands and their associated impacts on our natural world.

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

American white pelicans are one of the largest birds in North America with wingspans up to 9.5 feet across. These majestic birds migrate to Florida for winter feeding grounds, before retreating north and west for the breeding season. Floridians may see these snowy white cousins of the year-round resident brown pelican, feeding in shallow water or soaring across the sky in silent flying V’s.

Learn more:

How You Can Help:

Resist the urge to feed Florida's waterbirds

Read more about why, here: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW193 

Resist the urge to scare a flock into flight while enjoying Florida's waterways

American White Pelicans are very shy, compared to other water birds. Harassment of their flocks may lead them to abandon a feeding area, increasing their risk of exhaustion or starvation during their migration. So, consider avoiding flocks you may encounter on our beautiful waterways, give them a wide berth. 

Encourage your local government to support the protection and restoration of Florida's wetlands and waterways

American white pelicans and other migratory waterbirds in Florida, such as ducks, depend on healthy aquatic ecosystems with ample vegetation, prey items, and good water quality. 

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

In this episode, we explore fire in Florida, what ecosystems burn and why, the history and current state of fire in Florida, and some neat adaptations found in plants and animals of fire-depended ecosystems.

Learn more:

How You Can Help:

Consider Creating a Firewise Landscape -

These documents outline actions homeowners can take to better prepare their landscape for a possible wildfire:

Support Prescribed Burning Programs –

These resources outline prescribed burning efforts throughout Florida:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Birds come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. They play a critical role in our ecosystems, keeping insect populations in-check, serving as a valuable prey item for our larger mammals, and helping to disperse seeds! Just like people, birds need food, water and shelter to survive. In this episode, we will explore a special type of bird called cavity nesters, who, as the name implies, need cavities to nest, reproduce and thrive.

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How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

This episode is the second half of our discussion on the American alligator. This episode will focus on busting common myths and highlighting key ways we can learn to coexist with this critically important species.

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How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Florida is known for having alligators, a fact that brings fear to many visitors and residents. But, alligators are an important species in many of our ecosystems. While we continue to develop the State, our chances of encountering an alligator increase, but there are many ways we can learn to coexist with them.

This episode is the first episode in a two-part series and will discuss basic biology and some common alligator behavior.

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How You Can Help:

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Florida is known for a wide variety of ecosystems from the Everglades to its springs, and the beaches to the national forests. While these ecosystems are a major driver for tourism here in the state, Florida is rapidly developing with most of the population now living in urban areas. In this episode, we will explore the value and importance of an ecosystem that is often overlooked, the urban forests.

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Cuban treefrogs are an invasive species in Florida. In this episode, you'll learn how to identify a Cuban treefrogs and how to humanely euthanize them. By choosing to remove Cuban treefrogs from your yard or neighborhood, you're helping protect local native treefrogs, like the green treefrog and the squirrel treefrog.

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How You Can Help:

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Fireflies are indeed in Florida; you just have to know where to find them. Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, avoid areas with high volumes of artificial lights and lots of urban development. In this episode of Naturally Florida, we’ll be discussing the lifecycle and conservation of fireflies in Florida.

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How You Can Help:

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Florida gets a lot of rain, but our natural water cycle is shifting more towards an urban water cycle as we develop the Sunshine State. In this episode of Naturally Florida, we'll be chatting about the impacts of development on the water cycle with a focus on stormwater and its impact on the watershed.

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project,Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here:https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Florida's native green anole (pronounced "uh-nole"), Anolis carolinensis, is Lara's favorite species in all of Florida! In this episode of Naturally Florida, we'll be chatting about what makes the green anole so special and about their nonnative look-alike, the brown anole (Anolis sagrei).

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