Early in 2022 I decided to begin a survey of snakes in the Pensacola Bay area. The purpose was to find out which species were encountered and how often. Based on Snakes of the Southeastern United States by Dr. Whit Gibbons and Dr. Mike Dorcas ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, Wildlife
I am always on the lookout for easily accessible places to get out into nature. Much of my job entails leading other people outdoors and teaching them more about what they're seeing. I've found in my years with Extension that if someone ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Forests, Natural Resources, Recreation, Water, Wildlife
Florida is home to over 50 native snakes, and as the temperatures warm up these snakes are more active. Four species of snakes found in Central Florida are venomous, meaning their bites inject life-threatening venom into the body. By learning ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, Wildlife
Over the last few weeks, I have received several questions and comments on, and about, the eastern indigo snake. I was curious as to why so many in such a short time – maybe a public television program on them or something? Not sure, but ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, Wildlife
Native Florida wildlife has adaptations and instincts that help them, literally, “weather the storm” during and after a hurricane. However, what is instinctual and normal for them may be unusual and concerning for us. Post-hurricane wildlife ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Disaster Preparation, Natural Resources, Wildlife
As many of you know, I do programs with snakes and receive a lot of calls about them. But in recent weeks I have seen an increase in the number of calls and the number of encounters inside of homes. Though most of the home invasions have ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, Wildlife
Most of you – okay… ALL of you who read this column like the outdoors. Some like it for its peace and beauty, some for recreation opportunities, some like it for both. One activity I have found many enjoy is seeking creatures from a ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, Wildlife
The heat is on and the cold-blooded reptiles we love to hate are on the move through our landscapes. Scorned throughout history, snakes in Florida are most active through the warm seasons and are present throughout the state. The reason ... READ MORE
Category: Home Landscapes, Pests & Disease
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla – Non-native snakes in Florida are spreading and growing in population. Some are considered invasive, threatening Florida’s environment, native wildlife, economy and public health, according to scientists at the University ... READ MORE
Category: Invasive Species, Pests & Disease, UF/IFAS
Snakes are common on the campus of the UF/IFAS Extension St. Lucie County in the northwestern rural area of the community. Both venomous and nonvenomous snakes can be found on site. This video is appropriate for visitors, volunteers, faculty ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, , Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Home Landscapes, Natural Resources, Wildlife