A clue, by inference, directs the viewer to a conclusion. The deduction which is based on the exhibited evidence may provide some insight into an activity occurring at some point in the past. No matter how good the data, much depends on the effective detective work of the individual attempting to understand the situation. The…Read more
Tag: Native Species
The Natural Beauty Hidden Among Winter’s Muted Shades
The winters in north Florida are always (relatively) pleasant, especially when compared to the rest of the country. While ice-age conditions may be inflicting a polar environment on the Midwest and New England, here in the panhandle the season of short days and long nights only means the lawnmowers get a rest. Even with the…Read more
A Fowl Guest That’s Here to Stay
There is nothing quite like a guest which stops by for a visit, and then stays forever. Departure is expected at any moment, but it never comes. As the visitor makes itself at home, their less than stellar qualities become evident. They may be noisy, greedily take the food of others and display some really…Read more
An Ancient, Tough Tree With Many Uses
There is a lot to be gained from having a tough reputation. Only those with an excessively stalwart disposition or lack of good sense will dare to make a challenge to the individual who holds this distinction. Unbending, rigid and durable are descriptors which invoke a firm, if not dogmatic, state of resiliency. With this…Read more
Signs of the Season With Storied Histories
Christmas decorating traditions reflect the culture where the holiday is celebrated. The use of red and green as the colors for the celebration arrived with the European settlers centuries ago. Without the readily available accessories which could be delivered to home porches with the click of a button, the newcomers had to innovate. Local foliage…Read more
How North Florida’s Insects Survive the Cold
An often-heard refrain is “I hope it gets cold enough to kill all the bugs.” While the thought is understandable from some perspectives, it is totally impractical. Most bugs and other tiny critters, be they insects, arachnids or worms, are beneficial to human habitation of the planet. They provide a myriad of important, but often…Read more
Squirrels Pine for This Tasty Meal
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
The Not Exactly Sweet Sounds of Grackles
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
Flyers That Almost Fell to Flighty Fashion
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
A Thanksgiving Guest Who Really Doesn’t Want to Be There
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