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
Hiking is one of my very favorite ways to spend my leisure time. Between the Ocala National Forest, the Seminole State Forest, several State parks, an abundance of wildlife management areas, and a beautiful variety of local parks, I am fairly ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, WildlifeThe UF/IFAS Extension St Lucie County in conjunction with the St. Lucie County Libraries Paula Lewis Branch will be conducting a lunch and learn presentation entitled “Snakes and Lizards of the Florida Treasure Coast” on February 9, 2022 ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Events, Home Landscapes, Livestock, Natural Resources, Pests & Disease, UF/IFAS Extension, Wildlife, Work & Life
Venomous and nonvenomous snakes are a natural part of the Florida environment. Unfortunately, many people suffer from ophidiophobia - which is a strong anxiety toward all snakes (Schaefer 2019). Having increased knowledge of which snakes are ... READ MORE
Category: Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Forests, Home Landscapes, Lawn, Natural Resources, Pests & Disease, Wildlife