The climb to the top, metaphorical or otherwise, is one of the fundamental drives of life. The return of warm weather sees this drive kick into high gear for many of the more commonly visible species in the panhandle. Only the hardiest with an obsessive focus on reaching the pinnacle and the infinite patience to…Read more
Tag: Native Species
Sluggish Slitherers: Snakes in Spring
On the still days after late winter cold fronts pass through north Florida, the silence beyond suburbia can be thunderous. Only the occasional puff of wind in the pines and the crunch of dried leaves underfoot shatters the quiet. The appearance of lifeless tranquility is gradually withdrawn as the sun climbs in the southern sky…Read more
The Saw Palmetto: Shady Safety to Florida’s Critters
The visage of the palm fronds conjures images of balmy tropics and sunny beaches, which is quite attractive given the recent subfreezing temperatures up north. The thatched roofs of seaside cabanas gently rustle in the breeze with a sound unique to the leaves of this plant. Depending on the species of the tree, the trunks…Read more
Red Maple: Vivid Color Among the Gray
The subdued browns, greens and grays of the forest are beginning to return to the brilliant pallet familiar to residents who venture beyond their front door. In the last days of February the slow progression of woodland colors is shifting as spring approaches. Many plants, trees and fungi are not reflecting the awareness of the…Read more
A Native Pest Who Has it in the Bag: The Evergreen Bagworm
Having things “in the bag” is usually an indication of a good situation. According to the saying, the project or objective is collected in a manageable environment and under control. The phrase actually originates with bird and small game hunters who literally had their quarry in a bag as they headed home to prepare a…Read more
Tough and Dependable: Construction and Florida’s Oaks
A reputation for strength, durability and the ability to endure the harshest of conditions is admirable and enviable. Very few humans (and usually not the celluloid heroes of the silver screen) have the grit and determination to earn this standing or status in the course of their existence. A few notable personages in nautical history…Read more
Not Just for Craft Projects: Pinecones
A walk around the neighborhood or forest will confirm winter is here. Of course there are also the recent thermometer readings and the shorter days. Other signs are the thicker coats on animals which by choice or situation must remain exposed to the elements. Some, like the native reptiles and amphibians, are absent from sight,…Read more
Mistletoe: The Plant Behind the Tradition
Last minute Christmas bargains are being hurled at north Florida’s residents through every conceivable mass media channel known to humanity. The retail establishments are packed with harried shoppers and the last minute delivery service’s abilities are straining at the coming deadline. The indecisive are now at the panic point where choices must be made or…Read more
Barking Up the Tree: Barklice
The sighting of a web usually indicates the presence of one of the many species of spiders living in Wakulla County. While some spiders do not use webs to trap their meals, most do in one of several distinctive forms. The petite strands are closely monitored by the patient arachnid. When a careless insect blunders…Read more
Live Oaks: Sturdy Shade in the Panhandle
While most panhandle Florida residents are among the fortunate few who dodged many ill effects and brutal results of the hurricanes and tropical storms during this memorable 2020 season, winter is soon to come. The local deciduous trees accurately reflect this seasonal transition. It is correct to say the shorter days are the impetus for…Read more