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Naturally Florida

Naturally Florida

By Shannon Carnevale and Lara Milligan

Naturally Florida is a podcast about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here.

This podcast is brought to you by UF/IFAS Extension's Natural Resources programs in Polk and Pinellas Counties.
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Rat Poisons and Wildlife: What’s the Big Deal

Naturally FloridaJul 18, 2022

00:00
19:02
Florida's Pink Birds

Florida's Pink Birds

Today's episode is all about Florida's pink birds, including the iconic roseate spoonbill and American flamingo.

Learn more about the Florida Waters Stewardship Program - starting Online this April!

Learn More:

How to Help:

Sources:


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Mar 18, 202426:22
Scent-sational Skunks of Florida

Scent-sational Skunks of Florida

In this episode, we explore the two species of skunks found in Florida. A mammal that is so unique, it recently divided from a subfamily of the weasel to become its own family, a stinky one! There is a lot to learn about these mysterious creatures. We will explore the species of life history of Florida’s skunks, where you can find them, some fun skunk behavior and more!  Learn More: 

 

How You Can Help: 

  •  If you see a skunk, it is not cause for alarm...don’t call a wildlife trapper, just let it be. 

Sources for this Episode: 

 





Feb 19, 202421:09
Florida's Venomous Snakes
Jan 15, 202423:53
Florida's Floating Sea-Potatoes ... the Manatee!

Florida's Floating Sea-Potatoes ... the Manatee!

Manatees are Florida’s gentle giants and are a sight to behold. They are state and federally protected species under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978 according to FWC. These gentle giants are Florida’s true natives, and we need to be respectful of these creatures when entering water ways. The goal is to actively co-exist with Florida wildlife. To properly do this we must first learn where we can find manatees, why we can find them in freshwater during the winter months, what they eat, and how we can protect these gentle creatures.  

 

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

  • Boaters should practice best boating practices by adhering to manatee caution signs, no wake zones, and watching for a manatee’s swim patterns.
  • Keep a safe distance if you do see a manatee.
  • Report injured, orphaned, entangled, distressed or dead manatees to the FWC WIldlife Alert Hotline 888-404-3922.  You can also download their app, “FWC Wildlife Alert”. You can text 847411 (Tip411) with keyword “FWC” and information about the situation. You can also submit a tip at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert
  • Monitor fertilizer runoff from yards that back into a known manatee area. 
  • You can support manatee conservation indirection through the “Save the Manatee License Plate”

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Dec 18, 202320:05
Florida Black Bears

Florida Black Bears

Florida black bears have been in the news, frequently, this year! On today's episode, we chat about the Florida black bear's diet, behavior, and biology, and provide some tips for co-existing with our resident bears.

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Nov 20, 202324:32
Bloom, there it goes!

Bloom, there it goes!

THANK YOU to all of our loyal listeners! Has this podcast made a difference in your life?

If you live in Florida, chances are you have heard or read about “harmful algal blooms" commonly referred to as HABs. We have received many requests for an episode on this topic, so…here it is! What are algae? What is a HAB? Are all algae bad? Learn this and more in today’s episode.

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

  • Limit your contribution to excess nutrients by fertilizing only when necessary, ensuring you blow grass clippings back on the landscape (not down a storm drain…that’s illegal), plant native plants to help with nutrient uptake, and check that your down spout is directed into your landscape and not down your driveway.
  • Report an algal bloom in a freshwater system - www.reportalgalbloom.com
  • Report fish kills at the Fish Kill Hotline 1-800-636-0511
  • Avoid contact with water that has algae blooms

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations⁠⁠




Oct 16, 202324:21
PodBLAST - The Impact of Fireworks

PodBLAST - The Impact of Fireworks

THANK YOU to all of our loyal listeners! Has this podcast made a difference in your life?


Although fireworks are a staple for celebrations around the world, the explosives almost always contain pollutants like heavy metals, perchlorates, and aerosols, which harm air and water quality. The noise and flashes can startle many organisms, sometimes leading to nesting birds scattering, leaving their young vulnerable to predators. The good news is, there are many alternatives to traditional fireworks shows— making the switch would help protect Florida wildlife and ecosystems.  Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: ⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations



Sep 18, 202317:48
Sounds of Summer - Calling Frogs

Sounds of Summer - Calling Frogs

In this episode, we continue our exploration of the sounds of summer. This episode’s focus is all about commonly heard frogs in Florida. We have 33 species of frog in the state. More often heard than seen, this episode features six frog species, including some basic physical and audio identification information, habitats, what you can do to help, and more!

Learn More:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations


Aug 22, 202324:22
Ticks and Tickborne Illness in Florida

Ticks and Tickborne Illness in Florida

The creepiest, crawliest, grossest of arachnids, in our opinion, are ticks. And no, we don't feel bad calling them gross!

Tick-borne illnesses can wreak havoc on people's lives and there is still so much we don't know about them. On today's episode, learn what we DO know about ticks in Florida, the diseases they may carry, and what to do to protect yourself, your family, and your friends from ticks.

Learn More:  

  1. Florida-specific tick information: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/family-resources/ticks-and-disease/ (UF/IFAS) and https://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/tick-and-insect-borne-diseases/index.html (FL Dept. of Health)
  2. The CDC has a wonderful tool to identify the best insect repellants for various activities. Scroll to the bottom of this page to learn, "How to choose the right insect repellent": https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/find-repellent-right-you (CDC)
  3. More information on the diseases Ticks can carry and where they are found: ⁠https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/diseases/index.html⁠  (CDC)

Call to Action: 

Learn about tick-bite prevention! That's really our only Call to Action this month.

  1. Preventing Tick bites before going outdoors, and after: https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/avoid/on_people.html (CDC)
  2. Dog checks: https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/avoid/on_pets.html (CDC)

Sources for Show Notes: 

Jul 17, 202321:58
Sounds of Summer - Singing Insects

Sounds of Summer - Singing Insects

What comes to mind when you think of summer? Hot. Beaches. No school. What about singing insects? No? Perhaps not, but we’re sure you’ve heard the sounds of summer. Nobody sounds the alarm for summer weather like our native cicadas. Find out about them and more in today’s episode.  

Learn more: 

How You Can Help: 

  • Leave portions of your yard unmown 

  • Reduce use of lawn chemicals 

  • Be tolerant of chewed leaves 

Sources for this Episode: 

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here! 

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: ⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations 

Jun 20, 202319:14
Three Common Snakes in Residential Areas

Three Common Snakes in Residential Areas

On today’s episode, you’ll learn about three non-venomous snake species common to residential areas in Florida. Slithering into a neighborhood near you, these common snake species are found all over Florida.

Learn More:

  • Red Cornsnake: https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/florida-snake-id/snake/red-cornsnake/
  • Black Racer: https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/florida-snake-id/snake/north-american-racer/
  • Ring-necked Snake: https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/florida-snake-id/snake/ring-necked-snake/
  • Learn all about Florida’s Snakes, here: https://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/snakes/florida.shtml

Call to Action:

  • Let them be, let snakes live! They provide so many ecosystem benefits for us. Can you imagine how different the rodent, lizard, and insect populations might be without predators like snakes?
  • Prevent encounters rather than trapping or killing snakes. Reduce snake encounters with these tips from UF/IFAS Wildlife Extension: https://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/preventing_encounters.shtml
  • Identify snakes you see using this handy guide: https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/florida-snake-id/ Or, If you’re ever unsure, snap a picture from a safe distance and email us!

Sources for the show:

  • UF IFAS Wildlife’s Johnson Lab: “Florida’s Snakes” https://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/snakes/florida.shtml And https://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/dealing_with_snakes.shtml
  • Florida Fish and Wildlife’s “Living with Snakes” https://myfwc.com/conservation/you-conserve/wildlife/snakes/
  • Snake Bites: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/snakes/default.html


May 23, 202317:06
When You Think of Pines, I Hope You Think of Pinecones
Apr 17, 202322:51
The Truth About Iconic Florida

The Truth About Iconic Florida

When people think of Florida and visiting the sights, what do they think of? For most people, it’s some combination of alligators, flamingos, manatees, and sea turtles with a sprinkling of Disney World, Kennedy Space Center, and the beaches. This episode explores the truth about iconic Florida.

Learn more:

How You Can Help:

Sources for this Episode:


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Mar 20, 202318:59
Creating Wildlife Havens

Creating Wildlife Havens

You’ve probably heard that habitat destruction is a common cause of population declines for many wildlife species. It’s critical for us to do what we can in our yards, neighborhoods and communities to help support wildlife by providing food, water, shelter and space. In this episode, we discuss ten tips you can consider implementing where you have influence.

Learn more:
How You Can Help: Sources for this Episode:


Feb 20, 202322:29
Winter in the Sunshine State

Winter in the Sunshine State

People don’t often think of Florida when they think of winter, but there is actually a lot that happens in the natural world. There are migrations happening, leaves falling, and much more! In this episode, we will explore the exciting world of winter in Florida.
Learn more:

Science of Fall Colors - Science of Fall Colors | US Forest Service (usda.gov)
Wildlife Happenings - UFlorida Wildlife Extension at UF/IFAS (ufl.edu)
Do Black Bears Hibernate? -
myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/bear/facts/hibernation/
Canada Geese (they're in parts of Florida! Peep that range map): www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Canada_Goose/overview

How You Can Help:

Find a local Audubon Chapter - Audubon Near You | Audubon
Plant A Tree - UPlanting and Establishing Trees - Gardening Solutions - University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (ufl.edu)
Provide Healthy Wildlife Habitat - CIR 1429/UW175: Landscaping Backyards for Wildlife: Top Ten Tips for Success (ufl.edu)

Sources for this Episode:

Science of Fall Colors - Science of Fall Colors | US Forest Service (usda.gov)
Wildlife Happenings - UFlorida Wildlife Extension at UF/IFAS (ufl.edu)
Do Black Bears Hibernate? - myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/bear/facts/hibernation/
Cardinal soundclip: Mike Nelson, XC130967. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/130967
Wood duck soundclip: Daniel Lane, XC66141. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/66141


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!
If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations
Jan 23, 202321:24
Naturally Florida Trailer
Jan 22, 202300:48
End of the Year Q&A

End of the Year Q&A

In this episode of Naturally Florida, Shannon answers a few Listener questions! She'll tackle a light-hearted Florida Christmas classic, "Why do iguanas fall out of trees when it gets cold?" as well as shed some light about "good or bad" species like queen palms and Carolina laurel cherry, and finally, wrap up with a South Florida conundrum, "What can be done about a nuisance peacock?"

If YOU have a question for Shannon and Lara, you can leave it here: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=-KBNDTFKdk2s5gpiMx4bhAZcX_k6UeBKkWoRGrhGBkVUN0lVVk4wMVgyMUVDVkgxMFpUNjlPS1FRSy4u

Naturally Florida will pull questions from this form for future Q&A episodes, or, may occasionally add a question to a normal episode.

Learn more: How You Can Help:
  • Consider sharing this podcast with a friend, this holiday season! Consider what episode they might like best, and she it with them. We would greatly appreciate it! 
  • If choosing new landscaping, run the species through the IFAS Assessment first -  https://assessment.ifas.ufl.edu
  • Only hire wildlife trappers who have training and are listed through FWC's wildlife trapper page. See here: https://app.myfwc.com/hgm/nwt/nwtsearch.aspx
Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Dec 19, 202217:54
Highlighting a Keystone Species: The Gopher Tortoise

Highlighting a Keystone Species: The Gopher Tortoise

The gopher tortoise is not only a keystone species, but also an endemic species, making it special and important to the overall function of the ecosystems where it is found. In this episode we will explore the life of the gopher tortoise including some basic identification information, population status, biology, and things you can to do help populations in Florida. 

Learn more:
  • Watch our webinar - https://youtu.be/1QhwxOb0Cb4 
  • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission - Gopher Tortoise Program - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/gopher-tortoise/ 
  • The Gopher Tortoise Council - https://gophertortoisecouncil.org/gopher-tortoise 
How You Can Help:
  • Add native forage species to your yard - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/gopher-tortoise/help/plant-guide/ 
  • Find out what to do if you find a gopher tortoise near you (injured, healthy, or deceased) - https://myfwc.com/education/wildlife/gopher-tortoise/tortoise-sightings/ 
  • Help get them out of the road - Place them on the side of the road in the direction they were heading (Note: Do not place them in water) 
Sources for this Episode:
  • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission - Gopher Tortoise Education - https://myfwc.com/education/wildlife/gopher-tortoise/ 
  • Fire Effects Information System - Species: Gopherus polyphemus - www.fs.usda.gov/database/feis/animals/reptile/gopo/all.html 


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Nov 21, 202225:43
It's Spooky Season, Let's Chat About Bats

It's Spooky Season, Let's Chat About Bats

Mummies, Ghosts, and Goblins – oh my! This spooky season, we're chatting about Florida’s bats! 

Thirteen species of bats call Florida home, yearround, and several more migrate in from the north or south at certain times of year. These amazing flying mammals, the only mammal with true flight, provide highly valuable pest management services for Floridians.  

So, while you may see some spooky vampire bats this month on TV or in the movies, remember - Florida bats eat insects … they don’t suck blood! 

Learn more: 

  • (Webinar) Bats of Florida - https://youtu.be/gYhTjbBDqS8 (Taught by Shannon!) 
  • Read about high-quality bat houses in Florida - https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf/UW/UW29000.pdf 
  • Connect with the Florida Bat Conservancy to learn more: https://www.floridabats.org/backyard-bat-houses.html Living with Bats (FWC) - https://myfwc.com/conservation/you-conserve/wildlife/bats/ 
How You Can Help: 
  • Share what you learned with a friend! Bats are friends, not foe in Florida. Without them, we’d be dealing with so many more nighttime flying pest species. 
  • Consider leaving natural habitat for bats, like Spanish moss, dead palm fronds and their "boots" and, where possible, snags with cavities.  Installing a bat house! 
  • Learn more about them, here: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf/UW/UW29000.pdf and https://www.floridabats.org/backyard-bat-houses.html 

Sources for this Episode: 

  • https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW433 
  • https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf/UW/UW28900.pdf 
  • https://myfwc.com/conservation/you-conserve/wildlife/bats/health/histoplasmosis/ 
  • https://www.whitenosesyndrome.org/static-page/where-is-wns-now 
  • https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc/science/white-nose-syndrome

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Oct 17, 202221:34
All About Lightning

All About Lightning

The state of Florida is famous for its sunshine, beaches, and summertime fun. However, as Floridians, we know that summer also means thunderstorms, and thunder doesn’t happen without lightning. 

In this episode, we will explore the basic science of lightning and thunder, and how you can keep yourself safe this summer. We hope this brief introduction to thunderstorms in Florida will help you feel more informed and prepared for our summer rainy season.

Learn more:
How You Can Help:
  • Share what you learned with a friend!
  • Remember these sayings: "NO Place Outside Is Safe When Thunderstorms Are In The Area!", "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!, and "Half An Hour Since Thunder Roars, Now It’s Safe To Go Outdoors!"
  • Educate yourself and others with these lightning safety tips and resources - www.weather.gov/safety/lightning
Sources for this Episode:


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Thunderstorm sound clips licensed from Bidgee, CC BY-SA 3.0 AU, via Wikimedia Commons

Sep 26, 202221:17
All About Owls

All About Owls

In our last episode, we discussed how rodenticides, also known as rat poisons, can have a negative impact on our birds of prey. Today, we’ll be talking about Florida’s five resident owl species and how to identify them by the calls they make. These owls are valuable predators in our local ecosystems, both rural and urban, and can be easily identified with just a little practice.

Learn more:
Owl Calls: How You Can Help:
  • Share what you learned with a friend!
  • Consider adding habitat for our owl friends. See these links for nestbox plans: Eastern screech owl, barred owl, and barn owl
  • Think carefully before using any rodenticides and try other methods of rodent control, first!
Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Aug 16, 202222:16
Rat Poisons and Wildlife: What’s the Big Deal

Rat Poisons and Wildlife: What’s the Big Deal

Nobody likes pests, hence why pesticides were invented. Rodenticides are a specific type of pesticide used to control rats and mice, but they can have impacts throughout the food chain if not used correctly. In this episode, we will explore the science behind rodenticides, the impact of rodenticides, and of course, best management practices when it comes to controlling rodents in our yards and neighborhoods.

Learn more:
How You Can Help: Sources for this Episode:


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Jul 18, 202219:02
Microplastic Pollution ... What Is It?

Microplastic Pollution ... What Is It?

Plastic pollution has been a known problem for decades, but more recently researchers have been focusing on this idea of microplastics, that is plastic particles about 5mm in size or smaller. Where do microplastics come from? What are the threats? And what can we do? Find out in this episode. 

Learn more:
How You Can Help: Sources for this Episode:


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here! 

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Jun 21, 202220:07
Toads as Big as Your Head! Cane Toads in Florida

Toads as Big as Your Head! Cane Toads in Florida

Cane toads are well known for posing a threat to our pets. They are one of many invasive animal species we have here in Florida. In this episode you will learn all about this invasive toad species, how it became established in Florida, impacts of its presence, and ways you can help.

Learn more:
How You Can Help: Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

May 17, 202220:44
Coyotes are here to stay!

Coyotes are here to stay!

Coyotes have been in Florida since the 1970s but still feel like a relatively new species for many. In this episode, Shannon and Lara explore the latest research, facts, findings, and realities of living with coyotes.

Learn more:
How You Can Help: Sources for this Episode:
  • Dr. Martin B. Main, Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida
  • Angeline Barker, Certified Wildlife Biologist®, Biological Administrator I, Wildlife & Habitat Management Section, Division of Habitat and Species Conservation, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
  • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission – Coyotes - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/coyote/

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Apr 19, 202221:51
Special Interview with Dr. Scott Angle, UF Sr. Vice President of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Special Interview with Dr. Scott Angle, UF Sr. Vice President of Agriculture and Natural Resources

The University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is a federal-state-county partnership dedicated to developing knowledge in agriculture, human and natural resources, and the life sciences. Join Lara and Shannon as they interview Dr. J. Scott Angle, UF Senior Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources and leader of UF/IFAS.

Learn more:
How You Can Help:
  • Connect with UF/IFAS through social media networks – Help us share the great works, findings, and opportunities from UF/IFAS: https://ifas.ufl.edu/social-media/
  • Subscribe to the UF/IFAS Blogs site – Learn what UF/IFAS faculty and staff are doing around the state or subscribe to a particular county’s blog site: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/global/
  • Support conservation of our agricultural and natural lands – There are numerous organizations working to support our agricultural and natural lands. Consider finding one whose mission you wish to support.
  • Participate in conservation work – Find a local organization conducting regular tree plantings, restoration, clean-ups, invasive species removal, etc., and get involved.
Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Mar 21, 202219:05
Words Matter: When and How to Use the Words Invasive Species

Words Matter: When and How to Use the Words Invasive Species

Florida is a hotspot for nonnative and invasive species, but there hasn't been a consistent way to talk about these species until now. In this episode, we explore the various words biologists, park rangers, the public, and news media use to describe nonnative and invasive species. We will define and explain invasive species vocabulary and clarify what these words mean. 

Learn more:

How You Can Help: Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Feb 22, 202221:50
Is It Getting Hotter in Our Cities? It's the Urban Heat Island Effect!

Is It Getting Hotter in Our Cities? It's the Urban Heat Island Effect!

Florida is known for being hot in the summer, but Florida cities are even hotter. Energy from the sun gets absorbed by buildings and paved areas (like roads) which makes the whole urban area significantly hotter than natural areas. This is a phenomenon known as an urban heat island. Today we are going to explore urban heat islands and their associated impacts on our natural world.

Learn more:
How You Can Help: Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Jan 25, 202218:57
American White Pelicans, Florida's Other Snowbird

American White Pelicans, Florida's Other Snowbird

American white pelicans are one of the largest birds in North America with wingspans up to 9.5 feet across. These majestic birds migrate to Florida for winter feeding grounds, before retreating north and west for the breeding season. Floridians may see these snowy white cousins of the year-round resident brown pelican, feeding in shallow water or soaring across the sky in silent flying V’s.

Learn more:
How You Can Help: Resist the urge to feed Florida's waterbirds

Read more about why, here: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW193 

Resist the urge to scare a flock into flight while enjoying Florida's waterways

American White Pelicans are very shy, compared to other water birds. Harassment of their flocks may lead them to abandon a feeding area, increasing their risk of exhaustion or starvation during their migration. So, consider avoiding flocks you may encounter on our beautiful waterways, give them a wide berth

Encourage your local government to support the protection and restoration of Florida's wetlands and waterways

American white pelicans and other migratory waterbirds in Florida, such as ducks, depend on healthy aquatic ecosystems with ample vegetation, prey items, and good water quality. 


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If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations


Dec 21, 202123:09
Florida on Fire: Prescribed Fire in the Sunshine State

Florida on Fire: Prescribed Fire in the Sunshine State

In this episode, we explore fire in Florida, what ecosystems burn and why, the history and current state of fire in Florida, and some neat adaptations found in plants and animals of fire-depended ecosystems.

Learn more:
How You Can Help: Consider Creating a Firewise Landscape -

These documents outline actions homeowners can take to better prepare their landscape for a possible wildfire:

Support Prescribed Burning Programs –

These resources outline prescribed burning efforts throughout Florida:

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Nov 23, 202119:16
Birds and Their Houses: Cavity Nesters in Florida

Birds and Their Houses: Cavity Nesters in Florida

Birds come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. They play a critical role in our ecosystems, keeping insect populations in-check, serving as a valuable prey item for our larger mammals, and helping to disperse seeds! Just like people, birds need food, water and shelter to survive. In this episode, we will explore a special type of bird called cavity nesters, who, as the name implies, need cavities to nest, reproduce and thrive.

Learn more:

How You Can Help:

  • Provide snags – Snags are standing dead trees, and they provide excellent natural habitat for cavity nesters. Primary cavity nesters, like woodpeckers will seek out dying trees to excavate as this wood is usually softer and easier to chip away.
  • Build or install an artificial nest box ­– It’s important to build the right house for the right bird. There are many factors to consider when constructing a nest box. Be sure to check out our blog for more details.
  • Provide other forms of shelter Native plants of various heights provide excellent cover for birds and other wildlife species, plus they provide an excellent source of food.

Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Oct 20, 202120:08
(Part 2) Florida's Most Recognizable Reptile: the American Alligator

(Part 2) Florida's Most Recognizable Reptile: the American Alligator

This episode is the second half of our discussion on the American alligator. This episode will focus on busting common myths and highlighting key ways we can learn to coexist with this critically important species.

Learn more:
How You Can Help:
  • Never feed an alligator - If you suspect anyone of feeding alligators, intentionally or not, please consider reporting it to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). You will not get anyone in trouble! The 1st offense is a warning and education visit. Call the wildlife alert hotline: 888-404-FWCC (3922). Cell phone users in Florida can dial *FWC or #FWC, depending on the service provider.
Sources for this Episode:


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Sep 20, 202117:27
(Part 1) Florida's Most Recognizable Reptile: the American Alligator

(Part 1) Florida's Most Recognizable Reptile: the American Alligator

Florida is known for having alligators, a fact that brings fear to many visitors and residents. But, alligators are an important species in many of our ecosystems. While we continue to develop the State, our chances of encountering an alligator increase, but there are many ways we can learn to coexist with them.

This episode is the first episode in a two-part series and will discuss basic biology and some common alligator behavior.

Learn more:
How You Can Help:
  • Never feed an alligator - If you suspect anyone of feeding alligators, intentionally or not, please consider reporting it to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). You will not get anyone in trouble! The 1st offense is a warning and education visit. Call the wildlife alert hotline: 888-404-FWCC (3922). Cell phone users in Florida can dial *FWC or #FWC, depending on the service provider.
Sources for this Episode:


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Sep 20, 202115:24
Trees and People: An intro to urban forestry

Trees and People: An intro to urban forestry

Florida is known for a wide variety of ecosystems from the Everglades to its springs, and the beaches to the national forests. While these ecosystems are a major driver for tourism here in the state, Florida is rapidly developing with most of the population now living in urban areas. In this episode, we will explore the value and importance of an ecosystem that is often overlooked, the urban forests.

Learn more:
How You Can Help: Sources for this Episode:


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Aug 24, 202120:01
Cuban Treefrogs, they're more than just a nuisance!

Cuban Treefrogs, they're more than just a nuisance!

Cuban treefrogs are an invasive species in Florida. In this episode, you'll learn how to identify a Cuban treefrogs and how to humanely euthanize them. By choosing to remove Cuban treefrogs from your yard or neighborhood, you're helping protect local native treefrogs, like the green treefrog and the squirrel treefrog.

Learn more:
How You Can Help:
  • Report Cuban treefrog sightings in FL's panhandle to Dr. Steve Johnson's lab:  https://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/citizen_sci.shtml
  • Remove Cuban treefrogs from your yard or neighborhood: First, properly identify and and capture the Cuban treefrog. The easiest way to humanely euthanize a Cuban treefrog is to place the bagged frog into a refrigerator for 3–4 hours then transfer it to a freezer for an additional 24 hours. Then, move the frozen, now dead treefrog, to the trashcan. (excerpt from EDIS document, below)
Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Jul 15, 202121:54
Wait, we have fireflies in Florida?

Wait, we have fireflies in Florida?

Fireflies are indeed in Florida; you just have to know where to find them. Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, avoid areas with high volumes of artificial lights and lots of urban development. In this episode of Naturally Florida, we’ll be discussing the lifecycle and conservation of fireflies in Florida.

Learn more:
How You Can Help: Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Jun 21, 202117:51
Where does rain go after it falls?

Where does rain go after it falls?

Florida gets a lot of rain, but our natural water cycle is shifting more towards an urban water cycle as we develop the Sunshine State. In this episode of Naturally Florida, we'll be chatting about the impacts of development on the water cycle with a focus on stormwater and its impact on the watershed.

Learn more:
How You Can Help: Sources for this Episode:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Jun 21, 202121:12
Lara's Favorite Species: The Green Anole

Lara's Favorite Species: The Green Anole

Florida's native green anole (pronounced "uh-nole"), Anolis carolinensis, is Lara's favorite species in all of Florida! In this episode of Naturally Florida, we'll be chatting about what makes the green anole so special and about their nonnative look-alike, the brown anole (Anolis sagrei).

Learn more:
How You Can Help:
  • Help us document their populations! If you see a green anole in your yard or while out in one of Florida's many natural areas, snap a picture with your smartphone and upload it to iNaturalist.org. 
  • Add habitat to your yard or neighborhood. Consider adding native shrubs or small trees and changing part of your yard from lawn to Florida-Friendly Landscaping to provide habitat for a variety of small critters. Learn more here: https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/about-ffl/9-principles/principle-5-attract-wildlife/
Sources for this Episode:


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!  

If you're active on iNaturalist, consider joining our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations

Jun 21, 202117:50