September 16th celebrates the coming together of individuals within different communities to help clean and take care of our shared resources along the coasts here in the US. Coastal clean-up day focuses on the importance of preserving the coastal habitats for the organisms that inhabit and enjoy it. Pollution is a big issue and is a major contributor to the decline in the overall health of oceans and coastal habitats. Plastic and other trash not only causes the beaches to look unappealing to beachgoers, but these items are also a direct hazard to the animals that live in the water and frequent the beach. Items such as rope, plastic bottles, and tires are extremely harmful to the ocean habitat. Rope has been known to get wrapped around animals while they are swimming and can damage their limbs. Plastic bottles and other plastic items cannot be easily broken down, so these items end up either floating around or sinking into the ocean. When they do break down, plastics start spreading into the ocean and impacting the chemistry of the water which severely impacts the habitat and organisms living within the ocean. The plastics that don’t break down can become food for organisms or can injure ocean organisms. To help prevent these impacts, it’s important to remember that anything that is brought to the beach should be taken with you or disposed of properly.
By participating in your community’s Coastal clean-up day, you are preventing the spread of pollution into the ocean, protecting ocean organisms, and preserving the integrity and beauty of the beach and coastal ecosystems for future generations. To find more about local events occurring in your area, check out the link below.
Single-use plastics are plastic items that are only used once and then discarded. Such items include water bottles, plastic utensils, cleaning sprays, plastic bags, and more. Easy ways to reduce your plastic consumption include utilizing reusable water bottles and reusable bags in your daily life. Looking for alternatives is not always easy but look for ways to either replace one-use items (razors where you replace the head, cleaning supplies the allow refills) or ways to reuse them.
Education
Education regarding recycling and proper disposal is vital because recycling is not always as easy as throwing a plastic container into the recycle bin. Not all counties or states are able to recycle the same items. Education on local issues and laws in your local area helps you also get involved with your community.
Microbeads
Microbeads are found often in face scrubs, hand soaps, toothpaste and body washes. These tiny beads of plastic are a growing source of ocean pollution. These items are ingested by ocean organisms which are often eaten by humans. The next time you are looking for cosmetic products, check the label and look for environmentally friendly alternatives.
National Wildlife Day is celebrated each year on February 22nd and September 4th. These days serve to bring awareness to endangered animal species both nationally and globally as well as the organizations that help them through education and conservation efforts. Countries around the globe are working on research and helping improve the health and population of animals every single day. These efforts include educational work, tracking practices, and laws that scientists, conservationists, and policymakers put in place to help ensure the safety and health of these populations all over the world. This work has already helped improve populations and overall health of many endangered species including the bald eagle, American alligator, sea turtle species (green, Hawksbill), and manatees.
While it may seem that you need to do something big to make an impact, local efforts around the world can make a big difference. Below is a list of ways that you can help local endangered species in your community.
Support local nature centers
Local nature and wildlife centers educate about and support lots of the native wildlife in your community. By supporting them financially and with your time, you can have a direct impact on local wildlife.
Vote
Voting in your local elections and supporting environmentally friendly issues and politicians helps to impact the environment positively in your local area.
Get involved
Look around your community and get involved in local volunteer projects and conservation efforts including habitat restorations, beach clean-ups and planting projects.
Re-vamp your backyard
You don’t need to do a complete overhaul of your backyard to have it be more friendly to your local wildlife visitors. Creating small habitats can be as easy as setting up small areas where animals can rest and find natural food and water.
Habitat awareness
When traveling and exploring natural areas be sure to stay in designated areas. Otherwise, you could unintentionally interfere with habitat in a negative way.
Education
Help educate yourself and others about the local wildlife in your area and how you can coexist with them.
The beach supports many types of ecosystems including coral reefs, mangroves, sea grass, rocky beaches, and sandy beaches which feed into the bigger coastal ecosystem. While it may not look like it, these different ecosystems along the shore provide and support many organisms including humans. These ecosystems provide food for migratory birds and help provide protection against erosion along coastal communities. Mangroves and coral reefs provide support from erosion along the coastline which ensures the stability of foundations that coastal housing is placed on. Spaces like tidal pools and coral reefs tend to have a wide diversity of organisms that support the overall health of the ecosystem. These areas provide food and housing for many different organisms like sea birds, hermit crabs, clams, and starfish and are often the nursery grounds for larger ocean species.
National Beach Day works to recognize the significance of beaches and their ecosystems through events and educational activities dedicated to sharing the importance of beach preservation and the beach ecosystems. These ecosystems are unique and diverse and are vital and important to local areas both economically and ecologically. By working to educate about these ecosystems, we are able to support and preserve these important areas that we enjoy visiting.
Below are ways you can help protect the beach on your next visit:
Pack it in, pack it out
Anything that you bring to the beach should be taken out with you
Leave animals and items alone
Any animals and items you find should be left as is because it could have a lasting effect on the ecosystem
Stay on designated parts of the beach
Wandering to other areas off the beaten path could cause damage to the area or you could end up getting lost
To participate in the celebration, be sure to check out your local city or park website to find these local events in your area to learn more about beach ecosystems and what they provide.
On World Nature Conservation Day, let us all take a moment to reflect on the importance of preserving and protecting our beautiful planet, and, in particular, our vibrant home state.
Here in Florida, we boast a remarkable array of ecosystems, each teeming with life and beauty. The Everglades, known as the “River of Grass,” is a captivating wetland that supports a myriad of plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. The delicate balance of this ecosystem is a testament to the resilience and interconnectedness of nature. From the mangroves along the coast to the cypress swamps and the hidden springs, Florida’s diverse landscapes provide habitats for countless species, protect our local communities from damage, and supply our economy with sustainable income. In appreciation of this incredible biodiversity, here are some great ways to celebrate our planet, and our state, this World Nature Conservation Day.
Visit the Sawgrass Nature Center & Wildlife Hospital!
Here at the Nature Center, we celebrate all wildlife and have a beautiful facility where you can visit animals of all shapes and sizes. Take a walk through our habitats and immerse yourself in the true spirit of nature amongst our wildlife. Our Nature Center hosts great educational and recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages.
Enjoy a Nature Hike!
South Florida boasts beautiful preserves and parks with lush natural trails. Enjoy a day in the outdoors and share a memorable meal with friends and family. Many trails offer opportunities for furry friends to tag along, so no one will be left out in celebration of Mother Nature’s special day.
Volunteer in Nature!
Whether it is a beach clean-up or a community gardening event, immerse yourself in tending to nature. These beautiful ecosystems support our livelihoods and protect our homes. A great way to give back is to help nurture and promote the welfare of our planet. Here at the Sawgrass Nature Center & Wildlife Hospital, we offer a wide array of service opportunities for those interested in getting involved. Check out our website to learn more! To make it fun, grab some friends and make a game out of your efforts – it will be sure to make great memories. And Mother Nature will thank you for it.
Mangroves are the superheroes of our coastlines. A vital ecosystem, mangroves not only provide a sanctuary for a rich diversity of species but also offer countless benefits to the prosperity of our local Florida communities!
The Coastal Guardian
Three species of mangroves call the Florida wetlands home: the red, black, and white mangroves. These forests, with their intricate network of trees, submerged roots, and thriving biodiversity, act as natural protectors of coastlines. Their dense root systems serve as barriers against erosion and storm surges, safeguarding nearby communities from the devastating impacts of hurricanes and tsunamis. By absorbing and dissipating wave energy, mangroves serve as a living buffer, reducing the risk of coastal flooding and offering invaluable protection to both humans and the environment. Considering the high risks of hurricanes in South Florida, these mangrove ecosystems are vital to protecting Florida neighborhoods and communities from flooding, storm surges, and other damages caused by high winds and battering rains. Mangrove ecosystems are reported to save the local Florida economy billions in coastline damage annually.
The Protector of Nature’s Creatures
Mangroves are extraordinary hubs of biodiversity, providing a habitat for a myriad of plant and animal species. Their unique combination of saltwater and freshwater creates a dynamic ecosystem that supports a wide array of marine life. Countless fish, crustaceans, reptiles, and migratory birds depend on mangroves for breeding, nesting, and foraging. These vital ecosystems nurture intricate food webs, sustaining the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems and preserving the rich biodiversity of our planet. Mangrove forests also serve as natural nurseries for fish and other marine species, contributing to sustainable fisheries. Mangroves are essential to the Florida economy, providing a source of livelihood for millions of people who rely on fishing, aquaculture, and ecotourism.
Carbon Sinks: Storing our Carbon and Saving Our Economies
Mangroves are unsung heroes in the fight against climate change. Despite covering only a fraction of the Earth’s surface, they possess an impressive ability to sequester and store vast amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The dense vegetation of mangroves acts as a carbon sink, capturing and storing carbon dioxide in their roots, sediments, and biomass. By conserving and restoring mangrove forests, we can help mitigate the impacts of climate change, as they play a crucial role in regulating global carbon levels.
Protecting Our Hero
As we celebrate the International Day for the Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystems, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of collective action in preserving these remarkable habitats. By supporting local and international conservation initiatives, advocating for sustainable coastal development, and raising awareness about the value of mangroves, we can contribute to their long-term preservation. Mangroves not only offer countless ecological benefits but also hold immense cultural and economic significance. By valuing and preserving mangrove ecosystems, we are investing in a sustainable future for our planet and ensuring the well-being of present and future generations.
July 16th marks the official date of World Snake Day, a day dedicated to appreciating and understanding these often misunderstood creatures. Snakes captivate us with their slithering movements, incredible adaptations, and diverse array of species. They play an important role in ecosystems by maintaining and sustaining species throughout the food chain. On this special day, let’s take a closer look at the world of snakes, unravel some myths, and appreciate the important roles they play, particularly here in South Florida.
Native Snakes
Florida boasts an impressive collection of native snake species adapted to the state’s unique habitats. There are over 44 snake species native to Florida inhabiting a variety of ecosystems ranging from coastal mangroves to dry uplands to residential areas. If you see one of these scaly critters, there is no reason to worry as most snakes tend to keep to themselves. These native snakes play important ecological roles maintaining balance within their respective habitats.
Venomous Snakes
Out of all 44 species of native snakes in Florida, only 6 are venomous, meaning that they are able to release venom capable of paralyzing or killing their prey. The 6 venomous snakes in Florida include: the eastern coral snake, the southern copperhead, the cottonmouth, the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, the timber rattlesnake, and the dusky pygmy rattlesnake. Venomous species, like non-venomous species, are beneficial to maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Although venomous species may seem intimidating, they, like most species of snakes, are not particularly aggressive unless stepped on or otherwise provoked. It’s essential to understand and respect these venomous species, as they play a role in the ecosystem while demanding caution and proper education to ensure human safety.
Exotic Invaders
Several non-native snake species have found their way into the Florida landscape often as a result of accidental or intentional releases. Animals not native to Florida ecosystems are considered to be exotic. When exotic species begin to negatively impact the surrounding native ecosystems, they become an invasive species. Invasive species can harm and displace native populations and undermine the balance of the natural ecosystem. A notable example of an invasive species in Florida is the Burmese Python. A snake originally from Southeast Asia, the Burmese Python has become an established exotic species in the Everglades. Known for its impressive size and ability to thrive in the subtropical environment, this snake has caused significant ecological impacts by disrupting native wildlife populations with its voracious appetite. Efforts to manage and control the spread of these exotic invaders are ongoing.
Coexistence & Conservation
Florida’s snake population showcases a remarkable diversity of snake species, each contributing to the intricate web of life within the state’s ecosystems. Snakes manage the middle ground of the food chain, simultaneously controlling populations of rodents and small mammals, while providing sustenance for larger species of birds and reptiles.
Living alongside snakes, whether native, venomous, or exotic, requires a balanced approach that prioritizes both human safety and the conservation of these remarkable creatures. It is crucial to educate ourselves about snake behavior, habitats, and proper safety measures when encountering them. Conservation efforts play a vital role in protecting native snake populations and managing the impact of exotic species. It is critical to understand the role each type of snake plays within the ecosystem and take efforts to remove exotic species that do more harm than good.
While some may fear or misunderstand snakes, they are an integral part of Florida’s biodiversity. By learning about their ecological importance, appreciating their beauty, and dispelling myths, we can foster a greater sense of harmony with these slithering creatures. Participating in educational programs, visiting reputable snake exhibits, and supporting conservation initiatives are ways to deepen our understanding and appreciation for these fascinating reptiles.
Photo Courtesy of Brian Yurasits via Unsplash Photos
By Roksanna Keyvan
In March 2020, the world came to a halt. Lives were turned upside down in a matter of days as businesses shut down and schools closed their doors. Two weeks of what initially seemed like vacation turned into months of quarantine and isolation for individuals across the world. What sounds like the prologue to a dystopian novel was actually the onset of a global pandemic known as coronavirus or COVID-19.
Prompt and decisive health measures were taken in response to the crisis. However, their consequences sustained a profound impact on both human health and the global economy. This has significantly impacted the environment — for better and for worse.
The Good
When the world came to a halt, industry followed suit. Factories closed their doors, employees stashed away their uniforms and global pollution rates began to drop.
The decrease in industrial activity during the pandemic led to a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from factories and power plants. In 2020, The Earth Observatory at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) reported that declines in GHG emissions had been observed and reported across the world. As the world ceased its daily processes, the lessened consumption of fossil fuels slowed the onset of global climate change.
The absence of industrial pollution also led to cleaner water sources, specifically in developing countries that previously dumped domestic and industrial waste into untreated bodies of water. Water bodies that were characteristically turbid or discolored, such as the Bay of Bengal and the ports of Venice, were clearer due to decreased boat activity.
While water and air pollution have visible effects, noise pollution is an invisible threat that has harmful physiological and psychological effects on humans, other living organisms and natural ecosystems. Noise pollution is unnatural sound generated from different human activities, such as construction, and is considered by the World Health Organization to be the third-most hazardous pollution after air and water pollution.
Satellite images taken by NASA during lockdown periods in the city of Wuhan, China, reveal how decreased air travel and road transportation significantly lessened anthropogenic noise pollution in China, Ireland, and major cities across the globe.
Restrictions in transportation and travel have allowed nature to heal itself. With the absence of human activity, popular tourist sites experienced ecological restoration and assimilation with the natural environment. Research findings from Eulogio Soto of Universidad de Valparaíso reported that, with the lack of human waste and disturbance, urban-coastal ecosystems displayed an ability to recover in terms of biodiversity and system functionality, dropping from high levels of turbidity with many aquatic and local species returning. Social distancing and the lack of human disturbance correlated to a decline in the frequency of forest fires in the Southeastern United States, especially on federal lands, which house popular tourist spots such as national parks and wildlife management areas.
The Bad
Although the onset of COVID-19 reduced anthropogenic waste, it fostered an increase in biomedical waste. Biomedical waste relates to chemicals from disinfectants and infectious remnants from non-biodegradable personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and gloves. This waste now poses a major threat to public health and the environment.
Professor Ana María Rule of John Hopkins University stresses that overuse of PPE has resulted in a surge of plastic waste that will take hundreds of years to break down. Smaller and smaller microplastics from plastic waste will accumulate throughout the environment — in the soil, water and air. Invisible and omnipresent, these harmful microplastics will inevitably be consumed by all organisms – including humans.
PPE plastic and medical waste increase the risk of disease transmission to waste workers and thus require special disposal methods, like incineration. Although these disposal methods are designed to prevent contamination and reduce the volume of waste, they still harm the environment by emitting heavy metals, particulate matter and GHG. Disinfectants and surface cleaners also contain particles and chemicals with harmful byproducts. These byproducts, which take many years to degrade, are unable to be processed in water treatment plants and will resultantly accumulate in municipal wastewater across the globe.
The Ugly Truth
The COVID-19 pandemic has had significant environmental impacts, both positive and negative — but we are not in the clear just yet.
With almost all lockdowns ending and economic activity resuming pre-pandemic normalcy, NASA reported that levels of air pollutants, such as nitrogen dioxide, have returned to pre-pandemic conditions.. As typical pollutant levels rebound worldwide, an imminent return to environmental problems awaits us.
As a society, it is important to assess our next steps and consider what changes need to be made to improve ourselves and our planet. Not all PPE is necessary, and its overuse does more harm than good. COVID-19 spreads primarily via airborne means, not surfaces, as the virus can only exist on surfaces for about three days. Anna María Rule, an assistant professor in Environmental Health and Engineering at Johns Hopkins recommends that it is more effective and environmentally efficient to consistently wash your hands with soap and water.
Other sustainable environmental management strategies, as recommended by Professor Tanjena Rume of Jahangirnagar University, include sustainable industrialization. This strategy focuses on investing in technologies that reduce emissions and utilizing more renewable energy sources. It also emphasizes the improvement of wastewater treatment and waste recycling while finding ways to reuse these resources. Rume also emphasizes ecological restoration and ecotourism, a measure that requires international cooperation to ensure a more sustainable future. Finally, on an individual level, we can all work toward making behavioral changes daily to be more environmentally mindful.
As we return to a pre-pandemic normalcy, it is important to consider the environmental impact of our actions. By making united efforts, we can work toward guaranteeing a more sustainable future for all.
The month of June is dedicated to celebrating our friendly and essential garden helpers – and no we are not talking about garden gnomes! During this time, we celebrate and raise awareness about the incredible creatures that play a vital role in our ecosystem – pollinators. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of pollinators, their importance, and how we can all contribute to their conservation.
The Buzz About Pollinators: Pollinators play a very important role in our ecosystems by moving pollen between plants and ensuring their reproduction and the production of fruits, vegetables, and seeds. They play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, supporting the growth of native plants, and providing habitat and food for countless other species. Pollinators also play a prominent role in contributing to the continued growth of crops and agriculture which helps to feed and sustain millions across the world. The most popular pollinator is the bee, however, pollinators also include butterflies, birds, bats, and beetles.
Threats to Pollinators: Pollinators face numerous challenges. Habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, human development, and diseases are all factors threatening pollinator populations. By understanding these challenges, we can take action to protect and restore pollinator habitats and promote more sustainable and pollinator-friendly practices.
Creating Pollinator-Friendly Spaces: We can all contribute to pollinator conservation by creating pollinator-friendly spaces in our gardens, balconies, and communities. Planting native flowering plants, providing nesting sites, and avoiding the use of harmful pesticides are simple yet impactful steps we can take to support pollinators.
Pollinators and the Sawgrass Nature Center The Sawgrass Nature Center prides itself as a safe haven for pollinators, boasting numerous pollinator-friendly spaces throughout the facility. If you would like to join the pollinator festivities this month, come visit our gorgeous and lush butterfly gardens, filled with vibrant species of host and nectar plants which feed many of our native butterflies and other pollinator friends. Or perhaps, take a visit to the apiary enclosure where you can see our honeybees at work. All of our pollinators are very eager to meet new faces and help spread awareness about their vital roles in the world, so be sure to stop by and say hello! Pollinator Week is a time to celebrate and appreciate the invaluable role of pollinators in our world.It is also an excellent opportunity to spread awareness about the importance of pollinators and their conservation. Through educational activities, social media campaigns, and community events, we can inspire others to take action and become stewards of pollinators in their own lives. Let’s embrace Pollinator Week as an opportunity to take action and be part of the solution. Be sure to visit the Sawgrass Nature Center to visit some of our pollinator friends and learn more about what they do first-hand. Happy Pollinator Month!
For more information on pollinators: https://www.pollinator.org/pollination
As environmental conservation continues to be a growing topic of interest, we gather today to celebrate World Rainforest Day. This annual occasion recognizes the immeasurable value of rainforests and the urgent need to protect these precious ecosystems. Rainforests maintain a vital role in sustaining life on Earth:
The Lungs of the Earth
Rainforests are often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth” due their significant role in regulating the planet’s climate. These lush green expanses inhale vast amounts of carbon dioxide and exhale life-giving oxygen, playing a crucial part in mitigating climate change. By absorbing and storing carbon, rainforests help combat global warming, making them essential allies in our battle against environmental crises.
Biodiversity Like Never Before
Rainforests are teeming with an array of plant and animal species. These biodiversity hotspots house an estimated 50% of the world’s terrestrial species. Familiar faces in this web of life include vibrant tropical birds, jungle cats, insect communities, and towering trees with magnificent flowers. However, according to the Rainforest Action Network, 137 species per day are going extinct in the world’s tropical rainforests. World Rainforest Day encourages us to cherish this diversity and work towards its conservation.
Guardians of the Ecosystem
Rainforests provide essential ecosystem services that benefit both local communities and the global population. They regulate water cycles, prevent soil erosion, and act as natural filters, purifying the water and air. Rainforest-derived products, such as timber, fruits, and medicinal plants, sustain livelihoods and offer economic opportunities. Recognizing and valuing these services is crucial for the sustainable management of rainforest resources, especially since rainforests continually face numerous threats, including deforestation, illegal logging, agriculture expansion, and climate change.
Human activity not only destroys these invaluable habitats, home to millions of species, but also disrupts global ecosystems, putting millions at risk. Fortunately, dedicated individuals, organizations, and governments are working tirelessly to protect and restore rainforests. World Rainforest Day sheds light on these conservation efforts and encourages individuals to support initiatives that promote sustainability and forest conservation.
In honor of these environmental guardians, let us show our gratitude by becoming guardians for these remarkable ecosystems. Whether it’s reducing our carbon footprint, supporting local communities, or advocating for responsible forestry practices, each action contributes to the preservation of rainforests and the well-being of our planet. Let us stand united in our commitment to safeguard the magnificence of rainforests for future generations to cherish and appreciate. Happy World Rainforest Day!
On June 17, the nation celebrates World Crocodile Day, a date celebrating a creature that has roamed our planet for millions of years. Here in South Florida, we also have a distant cousin of the crocodile that is beloved throughout the Everglades, the alligator. With both species of reptile existing for millions of years, it seems only proper to bring up the age-old debate of alligators versus crocodiles. While they may seem like similar creatures at first glance, these toothy wonders have some distinct differences that are helpful to recognize. In honor of World Crocodile day, we will have a reptilian showdown.
Distinct Smiles and Measurements
Let’s start with their signature feature – their smiles! Alligators have a wide U-shaped snout, while crocodiles sport a more V-shaped snout. They may look charming, but don’t be fooled by their grins. In fact, their grins hold another secret about how to tell them apart. When an alligator’s mouth is closed, only their top row of teeth will be visible. However, when a crocodile’s mouth is closed, both top and bottom rows of teeth are visible to the eye. Another way to tell them apart is by size. Crocodiles tend to be on the larger side, with some individuals stretching up to 20 feet in length! Alligators tend to be more stocky, with the largest individuals reaching around 13-15 feet in length.
It’s Always See You Later Alligator, but never ’Where?’
When it comes to geography, alligators hang out in freshwater habitats like swamps and marshes. Typically, alligators are only found in the Americas and parts of the Caribbean. Crocodiles, however, inhabit both freshwater and saltwater environments across the world. One cool thing about Florida, particularly Florida bay, however, is that it is the only place in the world where both crocodiles and alligators can be found in the same habitat!
Ecological Importance
Both reptiles play a crucial role in maintaining the balance and health of their ecosystems. As apex predators, they help regulate populations of other species and contribute to nutrient cycling through their feeding habits. Alligators, however, play a unique and significant role – particularly within the Everglades of Florida. Alligators are a keystone species, meaning they are an essential and integral species to the ecosystem in which they inhabit. Alligators maintain the delicate balance of Florida’s wetland habitats by digging alligator holes, depressions in the ground which serve as critical water sources during dry periods and provide sanctuaries for aquatic life, such as fish, turtles, and other animals. The key to protecting our keystone species is conservation!
Crocodiles and gators are not just fearsome reptiles; they are ecological stewards and cultural icons. Despite their distinct differences, the protection of both of these creatures is essential for preserving the overall biodiversity and ecological integrity of their habitats. Threats such as habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and illegal hunting pose significant challenges to the survival of these species. World Crocodile Day provides a platform to raise awareness, support these initiatives, and advocate for stronger conservation measures. As we continue to celebrate World Crocodile Day, it is important to remember the importance of these reptilian wonders and work towards ensuring their continued protection and conservation through initiatives that spread awareness and educate others. It seems only fitting to end the blog with a few words, “In a while, Crocodile”.
