Flora & Fauna

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 […]

Bella Moth (Utetheisa ornatrix)

Southern leopard frog (Lithobates sphenocephalus)

American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus)

Although your likelihood of seeing one of these in Sarasota is remote, their numbers are increasing in Florida.

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.

Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana)

Common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)

If you’re lucky, you’ll see these in Sarasota Bay.

Gulf Coast Tick (Amblyomma maculatum)

Love Bug (Plecia nearctica)

Few creatures pique my interest as much as the Love Bug (Plecia nearctica). Known for their peculiar name and seemingly endless swarming behavior, these little insects are a ubiquitous part of Florida’s landscape. Despite their nuisance reputation, Love Bugs have a fascinating story worth telling. Let’s delve into the life of the Love Bug, exploring […]