The Lazy Naturalist

The Nature of Sarasota, Florida, & Beyond

Flora & Fauna

    Great Southern White Butterfly (Ascia monuste)

    This elegant butterfly, with its pristine white wings and striking blue-tipped antennae, is a common yet captivating presence in the Sunshine State. From coastal dunes to backyard gardens, the Great Southern White is a testament to the beauty and resilience of Florida’s ecosystems. Let’s embark on a journey through the life, habits, and ecological significance […]

    Giant Swallowtail Butterfly (Papilio cresphontes)

    This magnificent butterfly, the largest in North America, graces our gardens, woodlands, and citrus groves with its striking beauty and mesmerizing flight. From its impressive size and vibrant markings to its fascinating life cycle and ecological importance, the Giant Swallowtail Butterfly is a true emblem of Florida’s rich biodiversity. Let’s embark on a journey to […]

    Ballmoss (Tillandsia recurvata)

    Despite its name, Ballmoss is neither a true moss nor a parasite, but an epiphyte—a plant that grows on other plants for physical support without drawing nutrients from its host. Found throughout the southeastern United States and thriving in Florida’s diverse climates, Ballmoss is a fascinating example of nature’s adaptability and complexity. A Curious Appearance […]

    Zebra Swallowtail Butterfly (Protographium marcellus)

    With its bold black-and-white stripes and elegant tail streamers, this butterfly is a dazzling spectacle in the wild. The Zebra Swallowtail’s unique appearance and fascinating behavior make it a beloved and captivating presence in Florida’s forests, gardens, and wetlands. Let’s embark on an exploration of the life, habits, and significance of this striking butterfly, a […]

    American white ibis (Eudocimus albus)

    Greetings, birdwatchers and nature lovers! Today, we’re setting our sights on one of Florida’s most charming and entertaining residents: the American White Ibis (Eudocimus albus). With their graceful movements and quirky behavior, these birds are the comedians of the wetland world, always ready to put on a show. So, grab your binoculars and prepare to […]

    Julia Butterfly (Dryas iulia)

    With its bright orange wings and graceful flight, this butterfly brings a touch of tropical flair to the Sunshine State. From the coastal hammocks to urban gardens, the Julia Butterfly captivates observers with its beauty and fascinating behavior. Let’s take a closer look at the life, habits, and significance of this dazzling butterfly, a true […]

    Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)

    This captivating reptile, with its vivid scales and prehistoric appearance, is a testament to the unpredictable dynamics of nature. While the Green Iguana is a native of Central and South America, it has found a home in the Sunshine State, much to the delight and sometimes dismay of Floridians. A Tropical Stowaway The story of […]

    Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)

    Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation & Research Program has documented sea turtle nesting activity and the status of shoreline habitat for more than three decades along 35 miles of Sarasota County beaches. Their findings contribute to the statewide understanding of nesting trends.