Season 07: Backyard Florida

There is nothing quite as iconic to Florida as a trip to the beach. There are a number of reasons people go there, but Florida offers an extraordinary opportunity for those who like to collect shells.

What are these feet? We have a plethora of wading birds here, but this can cause problems with trying to identify a particular individual. Let’s focus on some of the subtle characteristics that can help you distinguish between our frequent long-legged visitors.

From looking at the initial picture, you might think that we already discussed this particular plant species already. It looks similar to the cabal palm. This is a closely related species that is a bit different, the saw palmetto.

Oak trees can be found throughout the northern hemisphere, but Florida has an interesting oak species that doesn’t look or act like most others.

Rain. Almost as common in Florida as sand. We have the 5th highest total average precipitation of any state, and it’s heavily concentrated to the summer. Florida would look quite different without it.

Sand is an integral part of the Florida story. The white sandy beaches are a major reason why people come here. But why are the beaches like that? What is it about Florida that produces such things? And, in the end, what really is sand?

At first glance, this grass doesn’t look particularly special or attractive, but when it blooms, it transforms into a beautiful pink cloud.

What kind of plant does this look like to you? For most people, it appears like a fern, but there’s something different about this one.

The palm tree is truly the quintessential Florida plant. It has been associated with Florida and tropical regions in general for decades.

A group of birds flying in formation is a common sight for many of my readers, but not as much here in Florida. Most v-formations seen are ducks or geese, which Florida has fewer of.