Naturally Florida

Shannon Carnevale and Lara Milligan

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

Naturally Florida's hosts, Shannon Carnevale and Lara Milligan, bring over 25 years of experience in natural resources and conservation to Naturally Florida. Listeners will learn about Florida wildlife, local ecosystems, and conservation issues in the Sunshine State. If you love learning about nature but need to learn on-the-go, this podcast is for you.

This podcast is brought to you by UF/IFAS Extension's Natural Resources programs in Polk and Pinellas Counties.

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S6 · E1
Monday · 23 min
Florida's State Saltwater Fish: The Atlantic Sailfish
In today’s episode we’re talking about Florida’s state saltwater fish, the sailfish. We will discuss what a sailfish is not (ex. swordfish and marlin), what makes sailfish so interesting and unique, and of course, how we can help sailfish in Florida and beyond. Learn More: Discover Fishes: Sailfish - https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/discover-fish/species-profiles/sailfish/ Sailfish - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/saltwater/billfish/sailfish/ Infographic: All About Billfish - https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/superfish-infographic-all-about-billfish/1005/ How You Can Help: If you’re considering going fishing for sailfish and want a keepsake of your catch, consider a “Release Mount” instead of traditional taxidermy for a sailfish mount. You should also talk to your boat captain about their fishing practices and know that for your safety and the safety of the sailfish, a sailfish should never be lifted into the boat for a photo, as removing it from the water causes extreme stress and potential mortality. Consider purchasing a “Fish Florida” license plate featuring none other than the sailfish. These license plates support the Florida Foundation for Responsible Angling, Inc. Whose mission is to promote public awareness of and encourage the protection of marine fisheries and coastal habitats. (https://fishfloridatag.org/about/) There is very little known about juvenile billfish in their early stages of life. So, the Billfish Foundation has a project to track them. They are asking that you supply a photo of juveniles that you’ve caught, an approximate location (including latitude & longitude) and any other information that you might have (time of day, weather conditions, size & condition of fish etc.). Send the photo and info to tag@billfish.org (https://billfish.org/featured/tbf-juvenile-billfish-project/) Sources: Atlantic Sailfish - https://angari.org/angari-deep-dive-atlantic-sailfish/ How sailfish use their bills to capture schooling prey - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4043100/ NOAA Technical Report NMFS SSFR – 675 - https://books.google.com/books?id=Pg8mLAc80IwC&printsec=frontcover#v=onepage&q&f=false
S6 · E8
August 17 · 19 min
State Marine Mammal: Bottlenose Dolphin
In today’s episode we’re talking about Florida’s state saltwater mammal, the dolphin. We will discuss why it’s not technically correct to call them a porpoise, some fascinating behaviors they exhibit the exemplify their intelligence, some basic biology and more. Learn More: Sarasota Dolphin Research Program - https://sarasotadolphin.org/ Common Bottlenose Dolphin - https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/common-bottlenose-dolphin Dolphin- https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/aquatic/dolphin/ How You Can Help: Practice safe and ethical behaviors when interacting with dolphins: Swimming and feeding interactions increase risk of injury from boats, increases the incidents of entanglement in fishing gear, decreases dolphins’ willingness to forage for food and may cause habituated behaviors to be passed on to calves and other dolphins. Observe from a respectful distance: It's recommended to view from at least 50 yards away and limit your time spent observing to 30 minutes or less. Learn to love dolphins! There are many smartphone applications and websites where you can track dolphins and learn about them along the way. Sources: Highlight: Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Inhabitance of the St. Johns River - https://sjrr.domains.unf.edu/highlights-2017/ Cetaceans and Primates: Convergence in Intelligence and Self Awareness - https://www.wellbeingintlstudiesrepository.org/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1029&context=acwp_asie Sarasota Dolphin Research Program - https://sarasotadolphin.org/
S6 · E7
July 20 · 26 min
Florida's State Freshwater Fish: The Florida Bass
In today’s episode we’re talking about Florida’s state freshwater fish, the Florida bass. We will discuss why it’s no longer called the largemouth bass, where they can be found, how they survive and support our freshwater ecosystems and more. Learn More: Florida Bass/Largemouth Bass - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/freshwater/largemouth-bass/ State Freshwater Fish - https://dos.fl.gov/florida-facts/florida-state-symbols/state-freshwater-fish/ Florida Bass Research - https://myfwc.com/research/freshwater/sport-fishes/florida-bass/ How You Can Help: Encourage aquatic plant management in your community, if you have natural lakes. Diverse, abundant submerged aquatic plants help with water clarity. A goal of 50% submerged lake bottom coverage by native plant species is highly correlated with higher water clarity and less algae. Get a fishing license or one of specialty license plates - https://myfwc.com/license/recreational/freshwater-fishing/ Learn about the Trophy Catch program - https://license.gooutdoorsflorida.com/Angler/Home Sources: Phylogenomics and species delimitation of the economically important Black Basses (Micropterus) - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9170712/ Aging: Biologists use otiliths to determine the age of fish - https://myfwc.com/research/freshwater/fisheries-resources/techniques/aging/ Trophic state indicators are a better predictor of Florida bass condition compared to temperature in Florida’s freshwater bodies - https://klwilson.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/trophic-state-predicts-bass-condition-boucek-et-al-2017.pdf The largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides (Lacepe`de, 1802): impacts of a powerful freshwater fish predator outside of its native range - https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s11160-019-09570-2.pdf
S6 · E6
June 15 · 17 min
Florida's State Shell: The Horse Conch
In today’s episode we’re talking about the mysterious and massive horse conch, Florida’s state shell. We will discuss the meaning behind its common and scientific name, what it looks like, where it’s found, research on population numbers, some fascinating behaviors and benefits of this species, and of course, what each of us can do to help support our state shell, the horse conch. Learn More: VIDEO: Giant Horse Conch & Burglar Hermit Crabs (Blue Planet, BBC Earth) - https://youtu.be/P_hBp1sEwfs?si=Du1L_g7JXjSoN7n7 Shell of the Week: The Horse Conch - https://shellmuseum.org/blog/shell-of-the-week-the-horse-conch/ Sea Wonder: Horse Conch - https://marinesanctuary.org/blog/sea-wonder-horse-conch/ How You Can Help: Support your local National Marine Sanctuary - https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/ Document sightings on iNaturalist - https://www.inaturalist.org/ Visit and support the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium, host of the largest horse conch in the world - https://shellmuseum.org/ Participate in beach cleanups and local restoration projects, and support organizations working to protect Florida's waterways. Sources: Age and growth of one of the world’s largest carnivorous gastropods, the Florida Horse Conch, Triplofusus giganteus (Kiener, 1840), a target of unregulated, intense harvest - https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0265095 Sea Wonder: Horse Conch - https://marinesanctuary.org/blog/sea-wonder-horse-conch/ Mighty, the Horse Conch - https://shellmuseum.org/blog/mighty-the-horse-conch/
S6 · E5
May 18 · 25 min
Florida's State Butterfly: Zebra Longwing
In today’s episode we’re talking about Florida’s state butterfly, the zebra longwing: what it looks like, where it’s found, its life cycle, some fun and unique behaviors, and of course, what each of us can do to help support the zebra longwing butterfly. Learn More: Zebra Longwing Butterfly (Heliconius charithonia) - https://www.fs.usda.gov/wildflowers/pollinators/pollinator-of-the-month/zebra_longwing.shtml Zebra Longwing - https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/100-years/object/zebra-longwing/ Zebra longwing - https://www.flawildflowers.org/know-your-native-pollinators-zebra-longwing/ How You Can Help: Plant host and nectar/pollen plants (Ex. passionflower vine for eggs/larvae and firebush, tropical sage, Spanish needle and more for the adults) - https://www.flawildflowers.org/know-your-native-pollinators-zebra-longwing/ Consider creating a butterfly watering station - https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/design/gardening-with-wildlife/providing-water-to-wildlife/ Consider purchasing a “State Wildflower” tag (license plate) and support valuable research, the planting and protection of hundred of acres of wildflower pollinator pathways and school wildflower gardens, and overall increased environmental awareness - https://www.flawildflowers.org/wildflower-tag/ Sources: Patterns of pollen collection and flower visitation by Heliconius butterflies in southeastern Mexico - https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-tropical-ecology/article/abs/patterns-of-pollen-collection-and-flower-visitation-by-heliconius-butterflies-in-southeastern-mexico/3E9698939DC97C3051261F38DBC078D8 Dynamics of a subtropical population of the zebra longwing butterfly heliconius charithonia (nymphalidae) - https://bioone.org/journals/florida-entomologist/volume-88/issue-2/0015-4040_2005_088_0169_DOASPO_2.0.CO_2/DYNAMICS-OF-A-SUBTROPICAL-POPULATION-OF-THE-ZEBRA-LONGWING-BUTTERFLY/10.1653/0015-4040(2005)088%5b0169:DOASPO%5d2.0.CO;2.full State Butterfly: Zebra Longwing - https://dos.fl.gov/florida-facts/florida-state-symbols/state-butterfly/
S6 · E4
April 20 · 24 min
Florida's State 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. Celebrate Earth Month with us as we revisit a favorite topic from season 1 with a freshly re-edited Alligator episode. Learn more: Living with Alligators: a Florida Reality: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/uw230 Watch an 8ft+ alligator climb a 6ft fence: https://youtu.be/z7DMjQJD7vM (ABC Channel 6, WATE) Information on alligator hunting in Florida (FWC) - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/alligator/harvest/hunt-guide/ 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: Ober, et al., Managing Conflicts with Wildlife: Living with Alligators. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/uw393 Swiman, et al., Living with Alligators: A Florida Reality. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/uw230 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission: Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program. https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/alligator/snap/ Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission: Alligator Management Program. https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/alligator/ 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
S5 · E3
March 16 · 24 min
Florida's State Animal, the Florida Panther
In today’s episode we’re talking about Florida’s state animal, The Florida panther: where it lives, how it lives, the conservation wins that brought it back from the brink, and what each of us can do to help panthers and people coexist in a rapidly growing state Learn More: Florida Panther Program - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/panther/ Wildlife Watch: Learn to protect the Florida panther during critical breeding season with Ask IFAS’ bilingual guide - https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/2026/02/12/wildlife-watch-learn-to-protect-the-florida-panther-during-critical-breeding-season-with-ask-ifas-bilingual-guide/ The Florida Panther: A Passageway to Success - https://www.fws.gov/story/2022-04/florida-panther Panther Pulse - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/panther/pulse/ How You Can Help: Slow down in posted panther zones, especially at dawn/dusk/night Report injured/dead panthers to 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922) Report sighting of Florida panther - https://app.myfwc.com/hsc/panthersightings/ Support land conservation programs and efforts - call your elected officials! Consider a “Protect the Panther” tag and support local conservation partners -https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/panther/plate/ Sources: The Florida Panther: Past, Present, and Future https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW402 Wildlife of Florida Factsheet: Florida Panther https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW467 Florida Panther Program - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/panther/
S6 · E2
February 16 · 18 min
Florida's State Bird ... but for how long?
Today, we’re discussing Florida’s state bird, the Northern Mockingbird: how it earned that title, how to recognize it, who it’s often confused with, and the meaning behind some of their behaviors. Learn More: Northern Mockingbird - https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Northern_Mockingbird/overview Northern Mockingbird - https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/northern-mockingbird State Bird: Mockingbird - https://dos.fl.gov/florida-facts/florida-state-symbols/state-bird/ How You Can Help: Plant native shrubs and fruiting plants to support natural diets of the Northern Mockbird, and nesting habitat too! Remember – Aggressive behavior usually means there’s a nest nearby! Support your favorite bird species by promoting the habitat and land/water management practices that support their existence Sources: Urban mockingbirds quickly learn to identify individual humans - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2690012/ Cornell Lab: All About Birds – Northern Mockingbird - https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Northern_Mockingbird/overview Breitwisch, R., Diaz, M., Natasha Gottlieb, Lee, R., & Zaias, J. (1986). Defense of Fall Territories by Mated and Unmated Northern Mockingbirds in Southern Florida. Journal of Field Ornithology, 57(1), 16–21. http://www.jstor.org/stable/4513085
S6 · E1
January 19 · 24 min
Sabal Palmetto, AKA the Cabbage Palm!
Today, we’re diving into what makes the sabal palmetto special—from its biology and wildlife value to its cultural history—and how Floridians can help protect and support this iconic native plant. Learn More: What is a tree? https://extension.usu.edu/forestry/trees-cities-towns/tree-selection/what-is-a-tree Sabal palmetto: Sabal or Cabbage Palm https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST575 Sorting out the Florida Sabal Palms https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR357 How You Can Help: If you’re adding palms to your landscaping, consider adding a native cabbage palm instead of a nonnative palm. Protect what’s growing – Remember, sabal palm trunks do not self-heal like “normal” trees would – take care to avoid damaging them! Defend them against weedwhackers and other trauma. Practice responsible pruning - Don’t remove green fronds unnecessarily; fronds provide food and energy for the palm. Unless the frond is dry and brown,the tree still needs it. If you MUST prune, prune responsibly – only fronds that hang down and have already started to die off. (Learn more) Support conservation, Observe, andAppreciate our State Tree - Take a moment to notice sabal palms in your community—and thebirds and wildlife they support. Sources: Cabbage palm – Sabal palmetto ⁠ https://ffgs.ifas.ufl.edu/tree-tour/cabbage-palm/ Sabal Palm ⁠ https://www.nps.gov/places/000/sabal-palm.htm Sabal palmetto: Investigating the ecological importanceof Florida’s state tree ⁠https://www.proquest.com/openview/22f53c0e4a34046d4bb033c747102003/1?cbl=18750&pq-origsite=gscholar https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST575 https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR357
S5 · E12
Dec 15, 2025 · 22 min
Hurricanes & Wildlife: Hurricane Series, Part 4
In this episode, we explain how hurricanes impact ecosystems and the wildlife that live there. We’ll discuss behaviors of wildlife before, during and after a storm, how these events impact wildlife, and what to keep in mind when it comes to encountering wildlife after a storm. Learn More: • Wildlife and Storms: Hurricanes and Wildlife - https://myfwc.com/news/wildlife-and-storms/ • Are Fish Impacted by Hurricanes? https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/are-fish-impacted-hurricanes • Hurricane Impacts on Florida’s Agriculture and Natural Resources - https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/105526 How You Can Help: • Give wildlife space to recover after storms — avoid unnecessary “rescues.” • Report fish kills by calling the Fish Kill Hotline: 800-636-0511 or  report a fish kill online.  • Support dune restoration, wetland cleanup events, and native plantings. • Report injured wildlife to licensed rehabbers or FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline. FWC’ s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC Sources: • The Impact of Hurricane Andrew on the Ecosystems of South Florida - https://www.jstor.org/stable/2386357 • The effects of hurricanes on birds, with special reference to Caribbean islands - https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/bird-conservation-international/article/effects-of-hurricanes-on-birds-with-special-reference-to-caribbean-islands/BB2E910A038B98090BB331310C163DC7 • Short-Term Demographic Responses of a Coastal Waterbird Community After Two Major Hurricanes - https://bioone.org/journals/waterbirds/volume-36/issue-1/063.036.0113/Short-Term-Demographic-Responses-of-a-Coastal-Waterbird-Community-After/10.1675/063.036.0113.short • Geographical variation in hurricane impacts among sea turtle populations - https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jbi.12197
S5 · E11
Nov 17, 2025 · 25 min
Inland Flooding: Hurricane Series, Part 3
In this episode, we explain how hurricanes cause inland flooding through extreme rainfall and connected watershed systems. We’ll discuss why Florida’s flat terrain and development patterns make inland flooding so persistent, how these events impact water quality and wildlife, and what practical steps Floridians can take to protect their homes and communities. Learn More: See the most up-to-date FEMA Flood Map for your community: https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home (FEMA) Get a quote or learn more about the National Flood Insurance Program: https://www.floodsmart.gov Florida Well Owners Network: https://programs.ifas.ufl.edu/well/ (UF/IFAS) Benefits of Floodplains: https://www.fema.gov/floodplain-management/wildlife-conservation/benefits-natural (FEMA) Sources: https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home https://www.archbold-station.org/projects/floodplains/ https://msc.fema.gov/msccontent/Flood_Hazard_Mapping_Updates_Overview_Fact_Sheet.pdf https://www.floodsmart.gov
S5 · E10
Oct 20, 2025 · 26 min
Storm Surge: Hurricane Series, Part 2
On today’s episode, we will do a deep dive into the topic ofstorm surge. What is storm surge? What are the impacts of storm surge to us and our natural systems? We will also help you understand the risk of stormsurge where you live. Episode script reviewed by Lauren Wolf, Holly Abeels, andArmando Ubeda. Episode recording reviewed by Stephen Mullens. Learn more: National Weather Service – Storm Surge Overview &Hurricane Hazards https://www.weather.gov/phi/stormsurge& https://www.weather.gov/wrn/hurricane-hazards National Ocean Service – What is storm surge? https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/stormsurge-stormtide.html National Hurricane Center and Central PacificHurricane Center – Storm Surge Overview - https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/surge/ How you can help: Learn your evacuation zone – https://www.floridadisaster.org/knowyourzone/Remember, evacuation zones are based on storm surge risk for low-lying, floodprone areas, mobile homes or unsafe structures. Consider planting more salt-tolerant plants inyour landscape - https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/resources/apps/plant-guide/ Support nature-based solutions such as dunerestoration, mangrove plantings, and living shorelines. Sources for this Episode: https://coast.noaa.gov/states/fast-facts/economics-and-demographics.html https://www.usgs.gov/centers/spcmsc/science/florida-coastal-mapping-program https://agrilifetoday.tamu.edu/2023/06/15/sand-dunes/ https://www.jstor.org/stable/26296452?mag=the-shifting-sands-of-hurricane-resilience&seq=1 https://www.usgs.gov/centers/spcmsc/science/storm-induced-coastal-change https://daily.jstor.org/the-shifting-sands-of-hurricane-resilience/
S5 · E9
Sep 15, 2025 · 24 min
Introduction to Hurricanes: Hurricane Series, Part 1
This episode is part 1 of our summer hurricane series! Today, we're talking about how hurricanes form, why they spin, and what the "categories" mean when we talk about storms. Also, we would like to extend a huge THANK YOU to Stephen Mullens, a fellow faculty member at the University of Florida, for reviewing our episode content for accuracy. Stephan is an expert in forecasting and impacts related to hurricanes and thunderstorms. Learn More: Coriolis Effect Video (Nat Geo): https://youtu.be/mPsLanVS1Q8?si=yokr3w1vUeVg6l9T Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale: Learn more about what each "category" storm means. https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/pdf/sshws_2012rev.pdf Make a plan! Get ready, now: https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/preparing-for-hurricane-season/ Sources: https://climatecenter.fsu.edu/topics/hurricanes https://www.aoml.noaa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/How-Do-Hurricanes-Move_.pdf https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/pdf/sshws_2012rev.pdf https://www.npr.org/2018/09/14/647944033/september-is-peak-hurricane-season-why-is-that https://weather.gov/media/mfl/TropicalEventSummary/PSHMFL_2024AL14_Milton_Tornadoes.pdf https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/AL092024_Helene.pdf
S5 · E8
Aug 18, 2025 · 18 min
Throwback: Lara's Favorite Lizard
Green anoles are some of Florida’s most familiar—and most overlooked—neighbors. In this episode of Naturally Florida, we revisit our very first show from 2020 to explore what makes these little lizards so unique, how they interact with the introduced Cuban brown anole, and what you can do to help them thrive in your own backyard. Learn more: Cuban Brown Anole or Green Anole (video): https://youtu.be/KQhnzi9mkYI Landscaping Solutions: Green Anoles: https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/design/gardening-with-wildlife/anoles.html 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: Invader Updater: Cuban Brown Anole, UF Wildlife Department (2011) ⁠⁠https://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/InvaderUpdater/pdfs/InvaderUpdater_Winter2011.pdf⁠⁠ Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis), Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (n.d.) ⁠⁠https://srelherp.uga.edu/lizards/anocar.htm⁠⁠ Analysis of the effects of an exotic lizard on a native lizard in Florida ..., University of Tennessee (2000) ⁠⁠https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_graddiss/4722/⁠⁠ Florida Lizards are Evolving, Fast, Science Connected (2014) ⁠⁠https://magazine.scienceconnected.org/2014/10/florida-lizards-evolving-rapidly/⁠⁠ 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
S5 · E7
Jul 21, 2025 · 23 min
Let's Talk About Lake Water Quality
Happy Lakes Appreciation Month! This month, we dive into water quality and what it really means for freshwater systems. You'll hear a lot of scientific jargon this month, but we tried to define everything as we used it. This will help you talk to your local watershed, river, or lake managers! How You Can Help: Participate in the Great Secchi Dip In! https://www.nalms.org/secchidipin/ OR, email Lara or Shannon to learn more about how to participate Learn More: Florida Lakewatch: https://lakewatch.ifas.ufl.edu/extension/information-circulars/ Water Atlas (SW FL only): https://wateratlas.usf.edu
S5 · E6
Jun 16, 2025 · 24 min
The Scrub is Scrubbing
In this episode, we explore the unique ecology of scrub habitat in Florida. What is a scrub? Where are they located?How are they different from similar ecosystems? How does fire play a role in scrub habitats? What threats do scrub habitats face? What can you do about it? We cover this and more in this episode of Naturally Florida. Learn More: • Florida Natural Areas Inventory: Scrub - https://www.fnai.org/PDFs/NC/Scrub_Final_2010.pdf • Topographpic map, elevation, terrain - https://en-ca.topographic-map.com/map-x1rv5k/Polk-County/ • Calamintha bee (Shannon mentioned in episode) - https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/science/discover-nest-northern-range-blue-calamintha-bee/ • Scrub and High Pine - https://programs.ifas.ufl.edu/florida-land-steward/forest-resources/upland-forest-ecosystems/scrub-and-high-pine/ • Common Woody Plants of Florida Scrub Ecosystems- https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR373 • Florida Scrub - https://crocdoc.ifas.ufl.edu/publications/msrpmap/floridascrub/ How You Can Help: • Florida scrub is globally rare and incredibly unique, supporting plants and animals found nowhere else. Speak up and advocate for the preservation of the special natural lands. Needs some inspiration, check out the GladysE. Douglas Preserve story. • Fire is essential in scrub habitats —without it, the ecosystem collapses and species disappear. Be sure to support and advocate for prescribed fires in your area. • Scrub may look barren, but it’s a biodiversity hotspot—an ecological gem hiding in plain sight. See if you can find a scrub habitat near you to visit! Sources for this Episode: • Florida Natural Areas Inventory: Scrub - https://www.fnai.org/PDFs/NC/Scrub_Final_2010.pdf • Scrub and High Pine - https://programs.ifas.ufl.edu/florida-land-steward/forest-resources/upland-forest-ecosystems/scrub-and-high-pine/ • Common Woody Plants of Florida Scrub Ecosystems- https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR373 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
S5 · E5
May 19, 2025 · 24 min
Florida's Mighty Mangroves
In this episode, we'll discuss the three different species of mangroves found in Florida, their northward migration, and the critical role they play in our coastal ecosystems. We'll also share practical actions you can take to help protect these vital habitats. Learn More:  Florida's Mangroves - https://floridadep.gov/rcp/rcp/content/floridas-mangroves Mangroves - https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/mangroves/ Mangrove Species Profiles - https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/southflorida/habitats/mangroves/species/ Mangrove propagule image - https://ocean.si.edu/ecosystems/coasts-shallow-water/floating-propagules Video of fiddler crab - https://youtu.be/y4dWVCdsXQU?si=M5KI0XjM_KlBhB5d&t=13 Mangrove Ecosystem Services Field Lesson by Holly Abeels - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2dsmo6W2do How You Can Help:  Participate in local mangrove planting and restoration projects. Avoid using harmful chemicals in your garden that can run off into coastal waters. Not sure where the water from your property flows, find out here: https://mywaterway.epa.gov/ If you have mangroves on your property that need trimming, please work with a certified mangrove trimmer - https://floridadep.gov/water/submerged-lands-environmental-resources-coordination/content/state-authorized-professional Sources for this Episode:  Narayan, S. et al. (2019) Valuing the Flood Risk Reduction Benefits of Florida’s Mangroves, The Nature Conservancy. Assessing the role of mangrove forest in reducing coastal inundation during major hurricanes: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10750-017-3201-8 The Global Flood Protection Benefits of Mangroves - https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-61136-6
S5 · E4
Apr 21, 2025 · 23 min
Vulture Culture
Vultures can be seen throughout Florida, whether soaring in the air or feeding on the ground, visitor or resident, we have all encountered vultures in Florida. We actually have two species of vultures in Florida, the black vulture and the turkey vulture. While they may seem clumsy and not the most attractive birds, they play a critical role in our ecosystem. Learn how to tell these two species apart and the importance of these birds to our natural world. Learn More: Black Vulture - https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/black-vulture Turkey Vulture - https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/turkey-vulture Vultures: https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/birds/raptors-and-vultures/vultures/ Black Vulture or Turkey Vulture? That Is the Question: https://youtu.be/S-XcSqcpBpI?si=4c1FObJAVCkpqzMb How You Can Help: Respect their space, they are doing a critically important job that none of us want to do. Let them do their work 😉 Share this episode with a family member, colleague, neighbor or friend. Help us share the love for this keystone species. Sources: Do Vultures Find Dead Animals By Smell or By Tracking Predators Or Scavengers On The Ground? https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/do-vultures-find-dead-animals-by-smell-or-by-tracking-predators-or-scavengers-on-the-ground/ Vulture-cattle interactions at a central Florida ranch - Vulture-cattle interactions at a central Florida ranch Gamecock Scientists Say “Vultures Need Love” - Gamecock Scientists Say “Vultures Need Love” - Jax State News If you enjoyed this episode, share 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, join our iNaturalist project, Naturally Florida's Listener Observations, here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/naturally-florida-s-listener-observations⁠⁠⁠
S5 · E3
Mar 17, 2025 · 24 min
Oh the Oaks
We just did an episode on trees two months ago, but they are such a critical part of our ecosystems, it’s hard not to talk about them. Today, we thought it would be fun to focus in on the oaks. Oaks are found throughout Florida and play a critical role providing ecosystem services and wildlife benefits. Learn More: Florida’s Oaks - https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/florida-oaks/ The Little Oaks – Part I: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellasco/2019/07/11/the-little-oaks-part-i/ The Little Oaks – Part II: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellasco/2019/08/12/the-little-oaks-part-ii/ Previous Episodes Referenced: Stormwater Episode: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/where-does-rain-go-after-it-falls/id1573268305?i=1000526291174 ⁠ Intro to Urban Forestry Episode: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trees-and-people-an-intro-to-urban-forestry/id1573268305?i=1000533017933 ⁠ How You Can Help: Take advantage of oak leaf fall by utilizing the leaves as mulch - https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/2021/03/06/fallen-oak-leaves-make-a-great-mulch/ Get your tree checked out by a certified arborist and setup a pruning plan! ⁠https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/findanarborist⁠ Consider planting an oak, but make sure you plant the right tree in the right place - https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/oak-trees/ Sources: Oak Forest Ecosystems: Ecology and Management for Wildlife - https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=tcH8EAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA182&dq=benefits+of+acorns&ots=WALVLyqyi5&sig=mhZ24zuxMYjsasR4GxUBTxpAuTA#v=onepage&q=benefits%20of%20acorns&f=false Abscission - https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/abscission
S5 · E2
Feb 17, 2025 · 22 min
Non-Native Lizards in Florida
On today's episode, you'll hear about a few of our non-native lizards and learn about the complexity of when a species may or may not be called invasive. Learn more: The Invasion Curve: A Tool for Understanding Invasive Species Management in South Florida - https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW392 "Ticks and Tickborne Illness in Florida" (a Naturally Florida podcast episode): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ticks-and-tickborne-illness-in-florida/id1573268305?i=1000621364386 Naturally Florida Podcast Explains - Invasive Species: ⁠https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellasco/2025/02/14/naturally-florida-podcast-explains-invasive-species/ How you can help: Report Sightings of Nonnative Species: https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/report/ Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator Search: https://app.myfwc.com/hgm/nwt/nwtsearch.aspx

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