We have written about these invasive animals before. But I recently returned from an extended vacation to find one report of a Cuban treefrog in Escambia County, in the Perdido Key area, and my colleague… Read More
I first became acquainted with the lovely Stokes’ aster (Stokesia laevis) plant when our horticulture agent, Beth, suggested it for a project more than 10 years ago. We were asked to help come up with… Read More
This is one strange, primitive, dinosaur-looking fish. They have large scutes embedded in their skin that give them an armored look. They are big – reaching 14 feet in length and 800 pounds (though the… Read More
Sailors have a long and creative history of exaggeration when it comes to describing unusual marine organisms. From the terrifying kraken and sea monsters to the alluring mermaids and sirens, too much sun, salt, and… Read More
The text came through on a late May afternoon—a college friend was camping at Ft. Pickens with her kids. They’d spent the afternoon beachcombing and were curious. Her text read, “Here is your marine biologist… Read More
In the midst of Tropical Storm Claudette and the rainstorms covering the Southeast this week, flooding has been common in our region. On Saturday alone, the Pensacola area received at least 4” of rain. To… Read More
Caterpillars are top candidates for the hide and seek champions of the world. Fat, juicy morsels for birds, lizards, and small mammals, they are vulnerable prey for hundreds of would-be predators. Possessing no wings (until… Read More
In our continuing series on the biogeographic distribution of island vertebrates, this week we look at a creature that, for some, is as scary as sharks – the rays. The term stingray congers up stinging… Read More
They appear as undulating licks of flame, dancing across the garden. Every time I see the intricate brilliant red, orange, and yellow petals of this flower, I am awestruck. Like little campfires, the blooms entice… Read More
With this article we are going to begin a short series on the biogeography of panhandle vertebrates. Biogeography is the study of distribution of life and why species are found where they are. Many are… Read More
