Flora & Fauna

Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus)

There are Carolina Wrens all over Sarasota, and if you can’t see them, you can hear them. They are relatively tame, and tend to fly into houses to check things out more than any other bird.

Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus)

I don’t often see blue crabs around Sarasota Bay, but I made a video of one in the tidal pond at Selby Gardens.

American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)

Beautyberry is very common and easily identified by the unique berry color.

Black-bellied whistling duck (Dendrocygna autumnalis)

You’ll often hear whistling ducks in the trees at night, and flying around at certain times a day. Once you become familiar with the whistle, you’ll be able to spot them easily.

Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)

Buttonbushes are very common around Sarasota, blooming in the warmer months. A truly remarkable flower!

Magnificent Frigatebird (Fregata magnificens)

We don’t see these often around Sarasota, but keep an eye out further south along the barrier islands.

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 […]

Bristly thistle (Cirsium horridulum)

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 […]

Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus)

Arguably the prettiest bird around these parts, it shows up late February and heads back south in September. They can be seen in Myakka Park and flying over I75.

Streaked Rattlepod (Crotalaria pallida)

Been seeing these around a lot lately(March).

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 […]

Rosary Pea (Abrus precatorius)

Mexican Prickly Poppy (Argemone mexicana)

You can find these at the Celery Fields on the south side of Palmer Road.

American Coot (Fulica americana)

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 […]

Giant Katydid (Stilpnochlora couloniana)

Keep your eyes open for katydids, which are all over Sarasota, but are so well camouflaged, you’ll be lucky to spot one.

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 […]