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Last week, many families around the world celebrated Chinese New Year, welcoming the Year of the Snake—an animal symbolizing wisdom, transformation, and intuition. This special occasion, also known as the Lunar New Year, marks a time of renewal, reflection, and fresh beginnings. Across the world, families gather to honor traditions, enjoy feasts, and welcome prosperity for the year ahead. 

In the Chinese zodiac, the Snake is the sixth sign in the twelve-year cycle. Those born in the Year of the Snake, which include the recent years of 2013, 2001, and 1989 are often seen as intelligent, resourceful, and perceptive. Much like their animal counterparts, people under this sign are known for their ability to navigate challenges with grace and patience. They are strategic thinkers who value deep connections and often carry a mysterious charm. 

Beyond the mythology and symbolism during the Year of the Snake, snakes are fascinating creatures on their own. Found on every continent except Antarctica, they have evolved unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in diverse environments like deserts and rainforests. Some species like the Red Rat Snake show off vibrant red and orange patterns while other snakes like Apalachicola Kingsnake have the ability to metabolize venom, giving them the treat of eating other snakes! Both snake species can be found right here at the Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital as our animal ambassadors! There are over 40 different snake species in Florida, including some dangerous venomous species like the Diamondback Rattlesnake and Water Moccasin Snake! The ability of snakes to shed their skin serves as a powerful metaphor for renewal—perfectly aligning with the themes of the Lunar New Year. 

The Year of the Snake encourages us to embrace change, trust our instincts, and seek wisdom in unexpected places. Just as snakes shed their old skin, we too can leave behind what no longer serves us and step into a year of personal growth. Whether it’s setting new goals, deepening our knowledge, or approaching life with quiet confidence, this is a time to harness the strengths of the Snake. 

As we light lanterns, share meals, and exchange red envelopes, let’s welcome the Year of the Snake with an open heart and mind. May this year bring insight, resilience, and prosperity to all! 

This year, the Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital (SNC) celebrates an incredible milestone—30 years of wildlife rehabilitation, education, and community engagement! Founded in 1995 by Joan Kohl, SNC began as a humble effort in her home, driven by a passion for wildlife and environmental education. In 2006, the center found its permanent home on Sportsplex Drive in Coral Springs, FL, where it has continued to thrive. Over the past three decades, the SNC has provided care for thousands of sick, injured, and orphaned native Florida wildlife, nursing them back to health and releasing them into their natural habitats. 

But the SNC is more than a wildlife hospital. It is a vibrant hub for environmental education and conservation advocacy. Through a variety of hands-on learning opportunities, including Camp Wild and educational programs like Meet Your Wildlife Friends, Bird Adaptations, and Everglades Communities—SNC has inspired generations of young minds, fostering a love for nature that lasts a lifetime. 

One of the most heartwarming aspects of SNC’s history is its community of dedicated volunteers, many of whom walked through its doors as young campers and later returned to give back. Owen Prager recalls their first experience at SNC: 

 
“My first experiences with the Sawgrass Nature Center were as a Camp Wild camper in 2017! I still remember how fun and exciting Camp Wild was for me, a young child with very few friends and a HUGE interest in nature and animals. I memorized creature names, traced out the best paths for bug hunting, and made friends—with people and animals alike!” 

As Owen grew, they moved into both Counselor-in-Training (CIT) and volunteer positions, helping to guide new generations of campers. Today, they still visit SNC to reconnect with the place that shaped their love for wildlife and conservation. Roksanna Keyvan’s journey with SNC started even earlier:  

“I stepped through the screen door, sunscreen still sticky on my skin, clutching a Barbie lunchbox and backpack, brimming with excitement for the outdoor adventures ahead. Within moments, bug box in hand and curiosity guiding me, I found myself surrounded by human, furry, feathered, and scaly friends—and I never looked back.” 

From a five-year-old camper to a Head Counselor and Environmental Outreach Intern, Roksanna’s time at SNC shaped her aspirations. Today, she is an environmental litigator-in-the-making, advocating for sustainability and justice through constitutional law and public service. Recognized as a Yale Conservation Scholar, she credits SNC as the place where it all began: 

 
“Watching generations of young people cultivate a love for nature and a commitment to conservation has been one of the greatest gifts of my life.” 

As we celebrate 30 years of impact, we reflect on the countless lives—both human and animal—that have been transformed by the work of the Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital. From the tireless staff and volunteers to the passionate campers and visitors, SNC continues to be a place where curiosity flourishes, wildlife is protected, and a love for nature is nurtured. Here’s to many more years of conservation, education, and community! Happy 30th Anniversary, SNC! 

Florida, land of palm trees, beaches, and now snow? This week, the Sunshine State just saw one of its rarest weather events—actual snowfall! Between January 20th and 22nd, 2025, parts of the Florida Panhandle were transformed into a scene from a Hallmark movie, with some areas seeing a whole 5 to 12 inches of snow! That’s not just a light dusting—it’s enough to make a snowman, have a snowball fight, and completely shock lifelong Floridians! 

Historically, Florida and snow do not go well together. The previous snowfall record was set in 1954, when Milton, FL, received 4 inches. Before that, the state’s most famous snow event was in December 1989, when the flurries hit parts of North and Central Florida. Although it may seem impossible, South Florida has even seen snow within the last century. On January 19, 1977, Miami saw light snowfall, marking the only recorded snowfall in the region’s history. 

Being so used to boiling temperatures, many Floridians are asking, what caused Florida to turn into a winter wonderland? A powerful blast of air swept down from the Arctic, colliding with moisture from the Gulf of Mexico. This combination created a rare winter storm that blanketed parts of Florida in snow. This storm may have fostered a fun snow day for many, but it also shut down a 70-mile stretch of the Interstate 10, stranded commuters, and left thousands without power.  For locals, it was both exciting and chaotic. Schools closed, flights were canceled, and social media exploded with videos of Floridians seeing snow for the first time. Some ran outside in shorts and sandals, while others dug out their long-forgotten winter coats.  

While the snow has already melted, this event will go down in history as one of the most unexpected weather moments Florida has ever seen. Some meteorologists even link events like this to climate change, as shifts in the north and south poles may be making extreme weather more unpredictable.  

So, if you’re a native Floridian who built your first snowman this week, congratulations! You’ve officially witnessed a once-in-a-generation phenomenon. 

Environmental education is a vital component in creating a society that values and protects the natural world. Even greater is the importance of establishing this connection with nature during childhood. By equipping individuals, especially children, with knowledge, skills, and a sense of responsibility, environmental education fosters a deeper understanding of the range of ecosystems all around and the role humans play within them. One mission of the Sawgrass Nature Center is to showcase the significance of environmental education and its impact on children while incorporating outdoor experiences and knowledge of the natural world. 

Right now, the next generation of scientists sit in their first classrooms and learn about all that the world has to offer them. This is the generation that is going to face the brunt of the climate challenges discussed today. This is why it is crucial that children gain experience with the environment, in and out of the classroom. Children who engage with environmental topics often develop a deep-rooted empathy for nature. This allows them to feel connected to the natural world. These children are also more likely to adopt sustainable habits along the way. Studies also show that integrating environmental education can enhance the overall academic performance of a child. Not only can environmental education foster skills that can be taken into the complex world, but it can embed the beauty of nature into the next generation, pushing towards a sustainable future! 

More often than not, the best forms of environmental education go beyond the four walls of a classroom. Getting children outside and teaching them the true application of their knowledge can have lasting impacts. Nature-based learning can deepen the understanding of ecological concepts, provide familiarity with local ecosystems, a personal connection, and commitment to conservation efforts. Finally, time spent in green spaces can reduce stress, enhance creativity, and improve overall well-being. 

Environmental education is more than a tool for understanding the natural world; it is a foundation for creating a sustainable future. By inspiring curiosity, environmental education gives individuals the skills to face the pressing environmental challenges of our time. For children, these lessons go beyond the classroom, shaping habits and values that will influence their decisions for many years. As we look to the future, investing in environmental education is investing in the well-being of our planet and the generations to come. 

Sources:  

https://www.neefusa.org/story/environmental-education/encouraging-youth-engagement-outdoors

https://www.neefusa.org/what-we-do/k-12-education/benefits-environmental-education?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://naaee.org/programs/eeworks/benefits-k12-students?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00958964.2017.1366155?utm_source=chatgpt.com#abstract

Florida is known for its sunshine, beaches, and, perhaps most famously, oranges. As the state fruit, oranges hold a special place in the heart of Floridians and their surrounding economy. But what makes Florida oranges so iconic? Let’s dive into the history of how this fruit became the state’s delicacy.  

Despite what many people may think, oranges are native to Southeast Asia, including regions of China, India, and Vietnam. They were first cultivated thousands of years ago and eventually made their way to Florida through trade systems and Spanish explorers. One of these explorers, Juan Ponce de León, is given credit for planting the first orange seeds that would eventually become the agricultural industry seen today. Over the centuries, Florida’s warm, subtropical climate and sandy soil proved to be an ideal environment for orange trees, allowing the industry to flourish. Today, Florida is the second-largest producer of oranges in the world, behind Brazil. 

Florida’s orange-growing season typically runs from October through June, varying slightly depending on the kind of orange being grown. The most popular varieties grown in Florida include Navel oranges, Valencia oranges, Hamlin oranges, each being harvested at different times during the growing season. Navel oranges, usually eaten fresh, are some of the most popular and are known for their sweet taste. Florida’s unique climate, characterized by warm days, cool nights, and abundant rainfall, creates the perfect conditions for growing sweet and flavorful oranges. 

Although the orange tree is not originally native to Florida, it has become a staple piece of the state’s personality. So much so that, in 2005, the orange was designated the state fruit. The citrus industry not only contributes billions of dollars to the state’s economy but also supports tens of thousands of jobs. The orange also helps cultivate the aesthetics of the state of Florida, orange groves dotting the landscape to the iconic imagery of orange juice served at many Floridians’ breakfast tables.  

Whether you enjoy a glass of fresh orange juice or admire the endless groves on a drive through the state, oranges are an historic symbol of Florida’s natural beauty and agricultural power. The next time you peel an orange or sip on a tangy glass of juice, you’re savoring a piece of the Sunshine State’s history and heart. 

When most people think of winter, they envision snow-covered trees and icy temperatures. But in Florida, winter is a bit different—it’s a season of temperate weather, sunny skies, and abundant wildlife. While other parts of the country are bundled up against the cold, winter in Florida is a perfect opportunity to explore the state’s unique ecosystems. 

Winter in Florida runs from December through February, bringing windier days and cooler temperatures. While northern states are freezing, Florida enjoys temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (about 18-24°C) in the daytime.  Because of this, Florida’s natural beauty can shine in the winter. The cooler temperatures bring out the best of the state’s wildlife, as animals become more active and easier to spot. From the wetlands of the Everglades to the coastal mangroves, winter is an excellent time to witness Florida’s diverse ecosystems in action. Many species thrive in the cooler weather, and some, like manatees, can be seen in large numbers during these months. Manatees, which typically live in warmer coastal waters, gather in the waters of Florida to stay warm. Florida’s winter is also a great time for spotting migratory birds. Species such as roseate spoonbills, sandhill cranes, and a variety of waterfowl can be seen in Florida during the winter months because the state acts as a great pitstop during these long migratory journeys. Other wildlife, like alligators, deer, and even bobcats are often more visible in the cooler months. Alligators, for example, are more likely to be seen basking in the sun on cool winter days, just like many other reptile species.  

Winter in Florida is also a great time to observe the state’s unique flora. Unlike many other parts of the country, Florida’s plants stay relatively active during the winter months. You can find bright blooms in the form of winter wildflowers, such as blanket flowers and golden asters, as well as vines and shrubs like the native blueberries and flatwood plums. Even in more temperate regions, subtropical plants like palms and mangroves continue to thrive. 

Winter in Florida is a nature lover’s dream. With mild temperatures, lower humidity, and abundant wildlife, it’s the perfect time to explore the state’s diverse ecosystems. Whether you’re observing manatees in the winter springs, birdwatching in the Everglades, or hiking through pine forests, Florida’s winter offers a peaceful escape into nature. It’s a time to reconnect with the environment, see wildlife in action, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Florida’s natural landscapes, without the heat of the summer months. 

Thanksgiving is a holiday filled with family gatherings, delicious meals, and moments of reflection. For many, it’s a time to express gratitude for the blessings in life, but have you ever wondered how this beloved holiday came to be? The origins of Thanksgiving are deeply rooted in American history, shaped by early settlers, Native American traditions, and national proclamations. Understanding the history behind this festive occasion adds a layer of meaning to the celebrations we enjoy today. 

The most commonly recognized origin of Thanksgiving traces back to 1621, when English Pilgrims at Plymouth Colony and the Wampanoag people shared a feast to celebrate a successful harvest. This “First Thanksgiving” was not the beginning of the holiday we know today, but it marks a key moment in American history. This shared feast was not the only key interaction between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people at this time. The Native American people helped these newcomers survive their first winter in the New World. They taught them vital farming and gathering techniques.  

For the Wampanoag people, this moment of cooperation represented a time of peaceful relations with the newcomers, though it was one of many interactions that would ultimately evolve into complex, and often strained, relationships between Native Americans and European settlers. Despite the initial sharing, the history of Native American peoples in relation to Thanksgiving is complex and includes centuries of colonization, displacement, and loss. For many Native Americans, Thanksgiving represents a time of mourning or reflection on the impact of European settlement on their communities and cultures. 

The story of Thanksgiving as we know it was shaped by these early interactions, but it also oversimplifies the complex history of Native American people, whose experiences and contributions to this country are often overlooked. It’s important to acknowledge the Wampanoag’s role in helping the Pilgrims survive, but also to recognize the broader history of Native American resilience, survival, and ongoing struggles. 

Today, while Thanksgiving is a time for family, feasts, and giving thanks, it’s also a time to reflect on the complex history of this day and the people whose land was taken, whose cultures were suppressed, and whose contributions are too often forgotten. Here at the SNC, we appreciate you taking the time this Thanksgiving to learn about the holiday’s history while also enjoying the time with your loved ones.  

For many people, the beginning of November marks the end of Spooky Season and the start of Thanksgiving festivities and holiday shopping. Although this is a celebratory time, it can be disheartening to see the amount of waste that is created during the busy holiday season. Halloween is all about pumpkin carving, brand new costumes, pounds of candy and all kinds of sweet treats. Thanksgiving is represented by a bountiful feast of all your favorite fall foods shared with your family. The end of the year is the season of giving with folks decorating their homes with fake snow, jingle bells, and Christmas trees. After all the festivities are done, the question is left: what do you do with all the leftovers? Below are some different sustainable recycling ideas for all the Halloween leftovers from this season!

Pumpkin carving, one of the oldest Halloween traditions, is something a lot of children grow up doing, carving scary or silly faces into pumpkins, lighting them up with candles, and placing them on their doorsteps. Carving the pumpkins can be a delightful and artistic activity to do with your family, and the end result makes a great outdoor decoration. However, most people just throw away all the remains of their pumpkin after the holiday passes, even if the pumpkin is still good. There are countless ways that every part of a pumpkin can be used, even after a scary face has been carved into it. When carving a pumpkin, all the inside “guts” of the pumpkin are removed. Instead of throwing them away, these can be used to make delicious homemade breads, cupcakes, and even soups! Here are 21 different recipes using leftover pumpkin!

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/leftover-pumpkin-recipes

                Just like any other fruit, pumpkins have seeds. And lots of them! The seeds can be removed, baked, and sprinkled with salt to make the perfect salty snack to prepare for the Thanksgiving season. The leftover round pumpkin can be recycled into a sustainable planter for some of your favorite autumn plants. Whole pumpkins can be used as decorative bowls for other dishes like casseroles or soups. You can even play fun family games with leftover round pumpkins, like pumpkin bowling! If none of this sounds appealing, composting your pumpkin can always be an easy way to give back to the earth rather than wasting the leftovers.

                The pumpkin lovers here at the SNC wish you and your family a sustainable and festive November!

Here at the Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital, one of our main missions is to provide rehabilitative care to native Florida wildlife. Our hospital will take in sick, injured, or orphaned native animals and nurse them back to health to the best of our ability. The goal of the wildlife hospital is always to rehabilitate these animals in such a way that they can be released back out into the wild. For some animals, unfortunately, this is not the case. For any animals whose injuries have prevented them from being able to safely protect themselves in the wild, a permanent home is created for them here at the nature center. These animals then become our animal ambassadors!

Each year, the SNC’s Wildlife Hospital receives over 4,000 calls pertaining to animal inquiries, and the rehabilitator will take in about 1,000 animals over the course of the entire year. These animals include everyday critters like raccoons, opossums, and birds, all the way to feathered and scaled friends like herons, hawks, and snakes. The average person may encounter a situation with one of these animals while going about their daily life. Many people will come across raccoons, opossums, or even coyotes in their own yards, and that can be frightening! The SNC is the perfect place to help in this situation. However, there are some important things to know about these animals before giving us a call.

One of the most common calls the hospital receives is regarding raccoons. Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are a species native to much of North America and can be found all over Florida. Most people know raccoons as the furry “trash pandas” that spend their days sleeping and nights digging through trashcans. Surprisingly, these are necessary behaviors for the survival of the species! Raccoons are what is known as an opportunistic species. This means that they are highly adaptable to an environment that is rapidly changing or one that may not be ideal for their survival. These species can find food, shelter, and all the other resources they need to survive in a busy urban environment like a city or neighborhood. Because of their abilities, it is common to find raccoons in a neighborhood like your own even in the daytime.

Habitat fragmentation and urban development are some of the main drivers for raccoons, opossums, and coyotes to dwell in neighborhoods. Although these animals do need a place to reside, many people would prefer them not to be in their own yards. Here at the SNC, we like to promote the importance of coexistence with these animals. Although it may not be convenient for them to live next door, they need a home too! Here are a few ways you can deter these animals from getting close to your home:

1. Raccoons will search for food in opportunistic ways. So, if your garbage is uncovered or unsecure, or if there is cat or dog food left out overnight, that might encourage these furry friends to come digging.
   

2. Be aware of any fruit trees that may be growing in or dropping fruit in your backyard. This will attract racoons and other animals that might eat these as a tasty snack.

3. There are many resources that can be used to scare off these animals if encountered that are both safe and effective. Some of these include motion sensor sprinklers, cans with rocks or coins in them that can be shaken to scare them away, air hoses, motion sensor floodlights, and many more.

When coming across these animals, it is necessary to keep in mind the ways to deter them from your homes without harming them. Remember, there are laws in Florida relating to the capture, release, and relocation of wild animals. Before interacting with the animal in any way, do your research and contact your local wildlife center!

By now, most Floridians have become familiar with the category 2 hurricane swirling on the west coast of the state known as hurricane Helene. As of 11:00AM on Thursday, September 26^th, Helene seems to be headed straight for Tallahassee, FL. Governor Ron DeSantis has deemed this possibly the worst hurricane to hit Tallahassee in many generations. Although a category 2 hurricane is on the lower side of the category possibilities, this is still an incredibly powerful and dangerous storm on the horizon. Here is some information on the possible consequences of a category 2 hurricane and the prevention and safety measures necessary to keep you and your family safe.  

Helene has a sustained wind speed of 105mph as the storm continues to move north and could reach 130mph before landfall. After coming ashore, the wind speeds will decrease slightly, but the dangers will not disappear. Strong winds can knock down coastal houses, tear roofs off homes, and blow large debris around, causing extreme hazards. Luckily, this kind of damage requires wind gusts upwards of 150mph. However, wind speeds of 110+mph can still cause some catastrophe. If you hear of wind gusts at this speed or higher, or you hear branches breaking outside like a tornado, find shelter in your home. Experts say that the best places to find shelter include interior rooms with no windows where you can cover yourself with a heavy blanket or comforter.  

One of the largest threats of hurricanes for coastal areas is storm surge. Strom surge is an intense rise in sea level that creates dangerous floods caused by a large storm. The typical storm surge for a category 2 hurricane rises to 6-8 feet above the normal high tide in that coastal area. With this sudden rush of sea water comes dangerous outcomes. Local streets, homes, and business can be flooded, destroying belongings or preventing emergency vehicles from traveling through the city. In case of intense storm surge like this, it is important to know all the necessary safety measures. To prepare your home for a flood, put any valuable belongings as high up as you can, place sandbags near entrances or open areas to prevent water from coming in, but most importantly, stay informed by your local emergency departments on the status of the storm and the best safety precautions.  

Perhaps the most common disturbance caused by a hurricane is a power outage. This can happen on many scales: neighborhood outages all the way to city or county-wide outages. Depending on the severity of the storm, intense wind and storm surges can cause malfunctions in the area’s power supply, causing many people to lose power to their homes. This can be a consequence of many parts of the storm. Commonly, high wind speeds can threaten infrastructure that keeps power for many people. At first, a power outage in your home may not seem so terrible. However, going too long without power can become severe very quickly. Because of this, it is important to have the materials needed during a power outage on hand at all times. This includes batteries, flashlights, battery operated radios (or other devices to stay informed on the storm), portable chargers, canned food, distilled water, and, if possible, a generator to give your home some temporary power.  

Although hurricane dangers may sound intimidating, staying prepared and informed all throughout the storm is the best precaution you can take. The Sawgrass Nature Center & Wildlife Hospital wishes all you Floridians a safe and dry next few days!