Monthly Archives: July 2015

Ghost Crabs… raiders of the night

Posted on July 31, 2015 by John

  For locals along the coast ghost crabs are as common as mockingbirds and mourning doves. Before Ivan, when the dunes were larger and closer to the road, viewing the white crabs scouring across the road at night in your … Continue reading →

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The Sweet Sound of Summer – Cicadas

Posted on July 24, 2015 by John

I was sitting on my back porch late in the afternoon this past week enjoying the breeze and the sunset when the familiar sound of the bugs some call “locust” began their buzzing songs. Not all would agree with me … Continue reading →

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Hermit Crabs Add to Summer Fun At North Florida Beaches

Posted on July 18, 2015 by John

Summertime in north Florida is good. Among the premium experiences are leisurely hours at the beach. For many this is a period of relaxation and the opportunity to casually examine what the surf has thrown on the beach. It can … Continue reading →

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The Osprey: Apex Predator and Master Angler

Posted on July 18, 2015 by John

In north Florida water sports are a supreme pastime in summer. Fishing is among the most popular activity for all ages in this recreational realm. Human anglers are not the only competitors seeking to land a trophy specimen. Ospreys, the … Continue reading →

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Florida’s Rangeland Agriculture and the Environment: A Natural Partnership

Posted on July 18, 2015 by John

Most of us living in panhandle Florida recognize that our farmers and ranchers are committed to sustainable production of food, fiber, and fuel for generations to come, but how will farmers continue to be productive while sharing natural resources with … Continue reading →

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Things are Getting Hot on the Island… Discovering the Florida Panhandle – Barrier Islands – July

Posted on July 17, 2015 by John

The air temperatures are in the high ‘90’s and the heat indices are reaching over 100°F; heck the inland water temperatures are in the high ‘80’s – it’s just hot out there! But our barrier island wildlife friends are doing … Continue reading →

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Looks like a Typical Year for the Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone

Posted on July 10, 2015 by John

What is the Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone you ask? Well…it’s a layer of hypoxic water (low in dissolved oxygen) on the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico. It was first detected in the 1970’s but reached its peak in … Continue reading →

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Dodder: Vampire Plant or Nature’s Own Genetic Modification Organism?

Posted on July 10, 2015 by John

Vampires of all types and genetic modifications are hot topics these days, and a common, but uncommon looking and acting Florida weed may have combined the two subjects. Dodder, a native invasive, parasitic plant, reproduces by seed but does not have … Continue reading →

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What You Need to Know About Vibrio Bacteria in Gulf Waters

Posted on July 10, 2015 by John

After the recent report of a fatality due to the Vibrio bacteria near Tampa many locals have become concerned about their safety when entering the Gulf of Mexico this time of year. So what are the risks and how do … Continue reading →

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