Florida Balm

Nature & Outdoors

Florida fishing and wildlife info, experiences, tips and ideas:  seasonal guides, wildlife encounters, piers and parks, habitats, guides, and inspiration for your next outdoor adventure!

Florida burrowing owl

All About Florida Owls

All About Florida Owls Florida’s diverse landscapes—wetlands, pine forests, coastal regions—make it an ideal habitat for a variety of unique wildlife, especially owls. These nocturnal birds captivate nature lovers with their mysterious calls, silent flight, and crucial role in the ecosystem. As natural hunters, Florida owls help balance the ecosystem by controlling rodent populations, and their

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venomous spider in a Florida backyard

Florida Venomous Spiders

Florida Venomous Spiders to Know and Avoid Florida’s balmy climate and diverse ecosystems are a haven for many creatures, including some spooky spiders. While most Sunshine State spiders are harmless, a few venomous residents are good to be aware of.  Knowing what these spiders look like, where they typically live, and how to avoid them

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American cockroach (also known as Palmetto Bug) yuck!

Cockroaches in Florida: a Guide to Our Worst Creepy Crawlies

American Cockroach Cockroaches in Florida: Our Worst Creepy Crawlies Cockroaches in Florida are the stuff of nightmares for many residents and visitors, and universally hated by most everyone. These persistent pests are more than just a household nuisance, they are rumored to be one of the only living creatures that can survive a nuclear blast! 

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monarchs and milkweed in Florida

Native Florida Milkweed Plants for Monarch Butterflies

Native Florida Milkweed Plants for Monarch Butterflies Native Florida milkweed plants are a vital resource for monarch butterflies, an iconic symbol of resilience that undertakes a yearly migration of thousands of miles across North America.  Sadly, their populations have been declining due to habitat loss. Planting these native milkweeds in your Florida garden is a

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