Many native plants and trees have finished their assigned annual task in the closing days of 2023 and are now in a state of rest. Their ultimate job is to produce seeds which will hopefully continue the species. While a majority of the seeds are small and easily overlooked, there is one “seed pack” which…Read more
Thanksgiving 2023 is in the history books. The remnants of the festive meal reside in the fridge, being reduced slowly each day. Turkey sandwiches, turkey in salads, turkey soup and any other recipe the late fowl-of-honor can be utilized in for the sake of space in the icebox. Additionally, there is likely a review of…Read more
Recent winter weather in the northern latitudes of the USA and other countries has made panhandle Florida look even better. Blizzards, snow drifts, avalanches and the like make north Florida, with its relatively mild temperatures, appear as a paradise. Still there is plenty of patchy white in the environment. The sugar white sands, as well…Read more
Uniquely American, the holiday of Thanksgiving has been celebrated since before the establishment of the country. On Thursday of this week, it is a day when families gather and express their appreciation for the bountiful resources provided. As with most family gatherings, food is involved. Traditionally, turkey is the centerpiece of the day’s culinary extravagance….Read more
Notoriety can be a positive attribute when events go as planned (or hoped). Such is the case with the much-heralded Monarch Butterflies’ recent departure. These colorful insects have garnered the interest and concern of tens of thousands, if not millions, of people who are worried an age-old annual pilgrimage to winter grounds in Mexico may…Read more
The traditional season of harvest and the gatherings of families and friends is at hand. A celebratory holdover from past generations who were completely dependent upon the land for food and other critical resources, in November one counted their blessings collectively or tightened their belt individually for a long and dismal winter. Today’s residents of…Read more
Halloween masks are big business for retailers attracting customers in October. After all, what child could refuse being a super hero, princess, or a hideous freak of nature while getting a sack full of candy? In reality, the tactic of appearing to be something intimidating is fairly common. It is especially useful in the untamed…Read more
Many of the native wildflowers in north Florida are a reflection of the season’s changing light levels, no matter what the thermometer reads. They are providing numerous fall colors and hues. One of the most common in panhandle Florida is Bidens alba. It is known by an assortment of common names including Spanish needles, Beggar’s-tick…Read more
Despite the many negative statements about the 2023 hurricane season, at least it provided ample rain. Even this late in the year the moisture supports growth, but in late autumn the development usually takes place unseen below ground. That is not the case with native fungi species. The local mushrooms and toadstools appear overnight in…Read more
“Oh gracious, why wasn’t I born old and ugly,” said a Charles Dickens character in the 1841 serialized novel Barnaby Rudge. This is not an often-heard sentiment in the 21st century which is focused on youth and beauty. While this pronouncement is the complete opposite of contemporary culture, the statement does apply to some in…Read more
