Shows
Naturally FloridaIntroduction to Hurricanes: Hurricane Series, Part 1This 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...
2025-09-1524 min
Naturally FloridaThrowback: Lara's Favorite LizardGreen 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/KQhnzi9mkYILandscaping Solutions: Green Anoles: https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/design/gardening-with-wildlife/anoles.htmlHow You Can Help:Help us document...
2025-08-1818 minNaturally FloridaLet's Talk About Lake Water QualityHappy 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 participateLearn More: Florida Lakewatch: https://lakewatch.ifas.ufl.edu/extension/information-circulars/ Water Atlas...
2025-07-2123 minNaturally FloridaThe Scrub is ScrubbingIn 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 (Sh...
2025-06-1624 minNaturally FloridaFlorida's Mighty MangrovesIn 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.ed...
2025-05-1924 min
Naturally FloridaVulture CultureVultures 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-vultureTurkey Vulture - https://www.audubon.org/f...
2025-04-2123 minNaturally FloridaOh the OaksWe 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-oa...
2025-03-1724 minNaturally FloridaNon-Native Lizards in FloridaOn 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...
2025-02-1722 minNaturally FloridaFlorida Arbor Day ... is in January!?While much of the country waits until late April to celebrate Arbor Day, Florida marks the occasion several months sooner. Our subtropical climate makes it safe—and even beneficial—to plant trees during the cooler, drier winter months (with proper irrigation). By doing this now, young saplings have time to develop strong root systems beforefacing the intense heat and storms of the summer season. Perhaps you recently attended an Arbor Day event, or took home a tree to plant in your yard. This episode explores Florida Arbor Day and tips for caring for your tree. Learn more:
2025-01-2025 min
Naturally FloridaOysters 101: Why These Little Mollusks MatterTHANK YOU to all our loyal listeners that completed our annual podcast survey! If you missed out, no worries, you
can give us feedback anytime on our website or try again next year starting in the Fall when we launch our survey again.
In this episode, we explore the world of oysters. What are they? What do they do? What happens when they die?
Eastern oysters play a critical role in Florida’s estuarine habitats, supporting hundreds of species big and small. Learn all about oysters and how you can support them in this episode.
2024-12-1618 minNaturally FloridaGobble Gobble, It's Turkey Time!On today's episode we're talking turkey - the wild turkey, that is! Learn all about Florida's wild turkey species, their biology, and even bust a myth or two.
Learn More:
See a turkey swim: Youtube Video from @southernoutlawadventures5106 on youtube.com
Learn everything you could ever want to know about turkeys and managing habitat for turkeys, by listening to Wild Turkey Science
How You Can Help:
Support prescribed fire initiatives in and around your Florida community.
Plant forage species in your suburban or rural yard that support turkeys: https://www.nwtf...
2024-11-1823 min
Naturally FloridaFlorida's Carnivorous PlantsIn this episode, we’re diving into one of the state’s most fascinating plant groups: carnivorous plants. These spooky species have adapted to capture prey in some of Florida’s most nutrient-poor environments. We’ll talk about how they trap their meals, their role in the ecosystem, and where you can spot these unique plants across the state.
Learn More:
• Pinellas Predatory Plants - https://youtu.be/gG0XNhSnSvQ?si=_27ONm-oA3pNOHH6
• Carnivorous Plants - https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/carnivorous-plants/
• Carnivorous plants – novel natives with showy flowers - https://www.fl...
2024-10-2124 minNaturally FloridaThe Pollinator Puzzle: Who They Are and How to HelpPollinators are the unsung heroes of Florida’s ecosystems,
supporting the reproduction of our flowering plants in urban, suburban and natural areas. Pollinator populations are declining, and organizations are urging people to take action to support pollinators in their areas of influence. There is a lot of buzz around the topics of pollinators these days, but who are they? What are they doing? Where do they go? Find out this and more in today’s episode.
Learn More:
Insect Pollinators - https://www.fnps.org/plants/pollinators
Know your native pollinators - https://www.flaw...
2024-09-1626 minNaturally FloridaI want to know, have you ever smelled the rain?If the title of this episode sounds familiar, you must be a Creedance Clearwater Revival fan like Shannon is!
Well, CCR might have actually been singing about seeing the rain but on today's episode of Naturally Florida, we're talking about smelling the rain. Rather, more accurately, we're talking about the smell before the rain, also known as Petrichor.
Learn more:
https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/2023/08/02/weekly
https://www.acs.org/content/dam/acsorg/education/students/highschool/chemistryclubs/infographics/petrichor-the-smell-of-rain.pdf
Sources:
https://news.mit.edu/2015/rainfall-can-release-aerosols-0114
2024-08-1917 minNaturally FloridaPentastomes in Paradise: Invasive Parasite Plaguing Florida’s SnakesSnakes play a critical role in our ecosystems, keeping rodent populations in check and supplying birds of prey with an excellent food source. But our snakes are facing a new threat, an invasive parasite, Raillietiella orientalis from Asia and Africa. This worm-like crustacean, believed to have come over with the invasive Burmese Python, is infecting the respiratory system of our native snakes. It is spreading rapidly, and ongoing research is documenting its spread and impact.
Learn More:
Invasive Snake Lungworm: Raillietiella orientalis - https://invasionscience.ufl.edu/media/invasionscienceufledu/images/docs/Disease_-FactSheet_Snake_Lung_Parasite.pdf
Snake Lungworm Alliance and Mon...
2024-07-1518 minNaturally FloridaA Frond-ly Discussion About Saw PalmettoSaw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is an iconic plant of Florida, often dominating the understory of pine flatwoods habitats. Not only is saw palmetto endemic to Florida and the southeastern U.S., but it has also been referred to as a keystone species! A plant as a keystone species? YES!
Keystone Species - a species on which other species in an ecosystem largely depend, such that if it were removed the ecosystem would change drastically.
For most of the year, saw palmetto fronds stand proud and upright showcasing their unique fan-shaped leaves with long, stiff, pointed lea...
2024-06-1726 minNaturally FloridaSurviving the Squeeze: The Lower Keys Marsh RabbitThe marsh rabbit is a medium-sized rabbit with short, rounded ears, and small feet. It is similar in appearance to the more familiar eastern cottontail rabbit but without the white color of their tail. The marsh rabbit is found in the southeastern United States from southeast Virginia (in the Dismal Swamp), along the east coast to eastern Alabama, and the Florida peninsula and the islands along the coast of Florida. There is a subspecies of the marsh rabbit, which is endangered and only found in (endemic to) the lower Florida Keys. Marsh rabbits live near freshwater and brackish marshes...
2024-05-2026 minNaturally FloridaPART 2: Mosquito Season is Coming!In this episode, we explore the mosquitoes of Florida, covering everything from mosquito biology, types of mosquitoes, mosquito surveillance and control, and ways you can yourself from these important, but sometimes pesky insects.
Learn More:
UF/IFAS Document about mosquito repellents (Table of effectiveness at end): https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN419
Mosquitoes & Their Control: Integrated Pest Management for Mosquito Reduction Around Homes and Neighborhoods - https://www.floridahealth.gov/%5C/diseases-and-conditions/mosquito-borne-diseases/_documents/fl-resident-guide-to-mosquito-control-ifas.pdf
Mosquito Control Programs - Mosquito Control Programs / Mosquito Control / Business Services / Home - Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services...
2024-04-1520 minNaturally FloridaPART 1: Mosquito Season is Coming!In this episode, we explore the mosquitoes of Florida, covering everything from mosquito biology, types of mosquitoes, mosquito surveillance and control, and ways you can yourself from these important, but sometimes pesky insects.
Learn More:
UF/IFAS Document about mosquito repellents (Table of effectiveness at end): https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN419
Mosquitoes & Their Control: Integrated Pest Management for Mosquito Reduction Around Homes and Neighborhoods - https://www.floridahealth.gov/%5C/diseases-and-conditions/mosquito-borne-diseases/_documents/fl-resident-guide-to-mosquito-control-ifas.pdf
Mosquito Control Programs - Mosquito Control Programs / Mosquito Control / Business Services / Home - Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services...
2024-04-1521 minNaturally FloridaFlorida's Pink BirdsToday's episode is all about Florida's pink birds, including the iconic roseate spoonbill and American flamingo.
Learn More:
Read the NPR article we discussed about Hurricane Idalia and Flamingo sightings.
View iNaturalist observations of Flamingos since 2020
How to Help:
Don't feed water birds: Read why, here.
Respect wildlife - view from a distance! Watch a short video about 'Rule of Thumb' for wildlife viewing, here.
Submit your observations to iNaturalist.
Sources:
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Roseate_Tern/overview
https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/birds/waterbirds/american-flamingo/
https://myfwc.co...
2024-03-1825 minNaturally FloridaScent-sational Skunks of FloridaIn 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:
Eastern Spotted Skunk Conservation Plan - Microsoft Word - ESS Conservation Plan July82019 (weebly.com)
Skunks - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/skunks...
2024-02-1921 minNaturally FloridaFlorida's Venomous SnakesHow do you feel about snakes? Not a fan? Well, while we believe snakes are friends, not foes, we recognize it may be comforting to know that the vast majority of snakes in Florida are non-venomous and largely cannot hurt you or your family. On today's episode, we go on a deep dive about Florida's venomous snakes.
Learn more:
Read about identifying the water moccasin and the banded water snake (non-venomous) OR watch this video
Need a refresher on 3 common snakes in residential areas? Listen here: Three Common Snakes in Residential Areas (Podcast...
2024-01-1523 minNaturally FloridaFlorida'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...
2023-12-1820 minNaturally FloridaFlorida Black BearsFlorida 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:
Living with the Florida black bear - https://www.myfwc.com/bear
Where are the large bear populations? - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/bear/bear-management-units/
How You Can Help:
Limit attractants in your yard and protect bears from accessing your garbage cans. Be bear aware: https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/bear/living/
Report a sick, injured, or...
2023-11-2024 minNaturally FloridaBloom, there it goes!THANK YOU to all of our loyal listeners! Has this podcast made a difference in your life?
The survey is now closed, but we look forward to hearing from you again next fall! If you have comments or topics for next season, submit them at www.naturallyfloridapodcast.com
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...
2023-10-1624 minNaturally FloridaPodBLAST - The Impact of FireworksTHANK YOU to all of our loyal listeners! Has this podcast made a difference in your life?
The survey is now closed, but we look forward to hearing from you again next fall! If you have comments or topics for next season, submit them at www.naturallyfloridapodcast.com
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...
2023-09-1817 minNaturally FloridaSounds of Summer - Calling FrogsIn 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:
Florida’s Frogs – https://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/frogs/florida.shtml
Frogs & Toads of Florida – https://wec.ifas.ufl.edu/extension/wildlife_info/frogstoads/image_index.php
Frog Call Lookup – https://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/frogquiz/in...
2023-08-2224 minNaturally FloridaTicks and Tickborne Illness in FloridaThe 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:
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 De...
2023-07-1721 minNaturally FloridaSounds of Summer - Singing InsectsWhat 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:
Common Grasshoppers in Florida - https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN010
Cicadas of Florida - https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/misc/bugs/cicadas.htm
Singing Insects of North America - https://orthsoc.org/sina/index.htm
Eastern...
2023-06-2019 minNaturally FloridaThree Common Snakes in Residential AreasOn 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 benefi...
2023-05-2317 minNaturally FloridaWhen You Think of Pines, I Hope You Think of Pinecones We have all probably interacted with pine cones in some way, whether we collected them to start a bon fire, rolled them in peanut butter to create a bird feeder, or avoided them during pollen season. Pine trees produce pine cones, a unique seed with a fascinating science and ecological importance for Florida’s ecosystems.
Learn more:
Common Pines of Florida - https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR003
Fun facts about pine cones - www.canr.msu.edu/news/fun_facts_about_pine_cones
How You Can Help:
Plant a pine tree!- U...
2023-04-1722 min
Naturally FloridaThe Truth About Iconic FloridaWhen 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:
American Flamingo - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/birds/waterbirds/american-flamingo
All About Manatees- https://myfwc.com/education/wildlife/manatee/facts-and-information/ .
All About Sea Turtles- https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/sea-turtle/where-to-view/
How You Can Help:
View Manatees Responsibly - https://myfwc.com/education/wi...
2023-03-2018 minNaturally FloridaCreating Wildlife HavensYou’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:
Planting a Refuge for Wildlife (book)- wildlifeflorida.com/product/planting-a-refuge-for-wildlife/
Helping Cavity-Nesters in Florida - edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW058
A Bird's-Eye View: How Birds Select Habitat - edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publ...
2023-02-2022 minNaturally FloridaWinter in the Sunshine StatePeople 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): https://www.allaboutbirds.org/gu...
2023-01-2321 minNaturally FloridaNaturally Florida TrailerWelcome to Naturally Florida, a podcast about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here.
Submit comments and topic suggestions to our website, www.naturallyfloridapodcast.com
This podcast is brought to you by UF/IFAS Extension, an Equal Opportunity Institution.
2023-01-2200 minNaturally FloridaEnd of the Year Q&AIn 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
2022-12-1917 minNaturally FloridaHighlighting a Keystone Species: The Gopher TortoiseThe 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/gop...
2022-11-2125 minNaturally FloridaIt's Spooky Season, Let's Chat About BatsMummies, 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/gYhT...
2022-10-1721 minNaturally FloridaAll About LightningThe 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:
Understanding Lightning: Thunderstorm Electrification - www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-science-electrification
Severe Weather 101: Frequently Asked Questions About Lightning - www...
2022-09-2620 minNaturally FloridaAll About OwlsIn 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:
Watch our webinar: https://youtu.be/XhTFTNucDcw
Commonly Confused Owls in Florida: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/2019/11/06/commonly-confused-owls-in-florida/
Check out inaturalist.org for owls observed near...
2022-08-1622 min
Naturally FloridaRat Poisons and Wildlife: What’s the Big DealNobody 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:
National Pesticide Information Center: What are rodenticides? - http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/rodenticides.html
AskIFAS: Rat and Mouse Control - https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/DH044
Potential...
2022-07-1819 minNaturally FloridaMicroplastic 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:
What are microplastics? https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/microplastics.html
Watch a webinar on “Microplastics 101” – https://youtu.be/v0xVeMkxDZc (Taught by Lara)
Science by the Slice Podcast: https://piecenter.com/media/podcast/
How You Can Help:
Share what you learned with a friend! ...
2022-06-2120 minNaturally FloridaToads as Big as Your Head! Cane Toads in FloridaCane 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:
Florida’s Frogs & Toads – Cane Toad - https://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/frogs/canetoad.shtml (includes videos on identification, action steps if a pet is poisoned by a cane toad, and how to humanely euthanize them)
Cane Toad or “Bufo” Toad (Rhinella marina) i...
2022-05-1720 minNaturally FloridaCoyotes 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:
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Species Profile Page for coyotes - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/coyote/
Watch a webinar on coyotes in Florida - https://youtu.be/0Q3gZnPtwTM (Taught by Lara!)
How You Can Help:
Share what you learned with a friend!
Secure attractants like pet food and garbage - https://ed...
2022-04-1921 minNaturally FloridaSpecial Interview with Dr. Scott Angle, UF Sr. Vice President of Agriculture and Natural ResourcesThe 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:
Dr. Angle has recently published a commentary on UF/IFAS’ snail kite work. Read it, here: Signs of hope for endangered Everglade snail kite | The Invading Sea
Everglades snail kite – Learn more about this species on the Florida Fish and...
2022-03-2119 minNaturally FloridaWords Matter: When and How to Use the Words Invasive SpeciesFlorida 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:
Florida Invasive Species Council - The mission of the Florida Invasive Species Council is to reduce the impacts of invasive plants in Florida through the exchange of scientific, educational, and technical information - https://f...
2022-02-2221 minNaturally FloridaIs 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:
Climate Kids - https://climatekids.nasa.gov/heat-islands/
Learn About Heat Islands - https://www.epa.gov/heatislands/learn-about-heat-islands
Planting Trees for Energy Savings - https://gardeningsolutions.ifas...
2022-01-2518 minNaturally FloridaAmerican White Pelicans, Florida's Other SnowbirdAmerican 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:
Read and share our blog post on American White Pelicans: http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/2017/11/22/american-white-pelicans-floridas-other-snowbird/
Learn about feather adaptations birds have in "Bird Feathers: A Guide to North Ame...
2021-12-2123 minNaturally FloridaFlorida on Fire: Prescribed Fire in the Sunshine StateIn 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:
Fire and Habitat - https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/archive/hot_topics/environment/fire_habitat.shtml
Effects of Fire on Florida’s Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat - https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/uw132
Wind and Trees: Lessons Learned from Hurricanes (Mentioned by Shannon) - https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR173
How You Can Help:
Consider Cr...
2021-11-2319 minNaturally FloridaAnnual Survey - We need your help!Fill out our SUPER SHORT survey, here: https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bEf5YoxkFv87GIu
Hey, Naturally Florida Listeners! We need your help!
As Extension agents, we need to report on our effort and impact over the year. We would LOVE to include some of the things we're hearing about the impact of the podcast. Have you done anything in your yard or local park, as a result of something we've taught you? Did you call a city employee to ask questions or recommend action for the city to take? Have you...
2021-11-1202 min
Two Bees in a PodcastEpisode 82: Pristine Impairing Olfactory Associative Learning in Honey Bees and Naturally Florida Podcast & How to Collect WaxIn this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on November 3, 2021, we are joined by Nicole DesJardins, Grad Research Assistant at Arizona State University, Lara Milligan, Natural Resource Agent with UF/IFAS Extension in Pinellas Count) and Shannon Carnevale, Natural Resource Agent with UF/IFAS Extension in Polk County to discuss the Pristine Impairing Olfactory Associative Learning in Honey Bees and Naturally Florida Podcast. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss how to collect wax. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
2021-11-1054 minNaturally FloridaBirds and Their Houses: Cavity Nesters in FloridaBirds 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:
Helping Cavity-Nesters in Florida - https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW058
All About Birdhouses: Next Box Placement - https://nestwatch.org...
2021-10-2020 minNaturally Florida(Part 2) Florida's Most Recognizable Reptile: the American AlligatorThis 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:
Watch an 8ft+ alligator climb a 6ft fence: https://youtu.be/z7DMjQJD7vM (ABC Channel 6, WATE)
Living with Alligators: a Florida Reality: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/uw230
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...
2021-09-2017 minNaturally Florida(Part 1) Florida's Most Recognizable Reptile: the American AlligatorFlorida 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:
Living with Alligators: a Florida Reality: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/uw230
Information on alligator hunting in Florida...
2021-09-2015 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 33: Naturally Florida podcastSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular welcomes Lara Milligan and Shannon Carnevale, and Cathy chats with them about their podcast, Naturally Florida, which delves into natural Florida and the things that live here. They also talk about Cuban tree frogs and other exotic invasives, fireflies (yes, we have them here!) and green anoles (you may call them geckos, but you'd be wrong. Lara's the Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County; she focuses on wildlife, water, and general environmental education. Shannon leads the Natural Resources and Conservation Extension program...
2021-08-3045 minNaturally FloridaTrees and People: An intro to urban forestryFlorida 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:
What Is an Urban Forest? - https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP595
Economic Contributions of Urban Forestry in Florida in 2017 -
https://fred...
2021-08-2420 minNaturally FloridaCuban 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:
Dr. Steve Johnson's website about Cuban Treefrogs: https://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/cuban_treefrog_inFL.shtml
Factsheet on Cuban treefrogs, including identification: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf/UW/UW25900.pdf
Learn about treefrog calls for species near you! https://www.pwrc.usgs.gov...
2021-07-1521 minNaturally FloridaWait, 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:
Where to find fireflies in Florida: http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/2021/06/05/where-to-find-florida-fireflies/
Learn more about the current status of fireflies in the US and Canada: https://xerces.org/blog/status-of-fireflies-in-the-united-states-and-canada
How You Can Help:
Add habitat to your yard or neig...
2021-06-2117 minNaturally FloridaWhere 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:
Stormwater Runoff - https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/residents/education/kids/stormwater-runoff
Lara has a whole webinar on stormwater you can watch on-demand: https://zoom.us/rec/share/YLiCkb4lZvEE7hR3810rIXTw9usnN6S_BOONVxp1Jca4k1bWLQuLcuQ11IKwKV0...
2021-06-2121 minNaturally FloridaLara's Favorite Species: The Green AnoleFlorida'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:
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...
2021-06-2117 min