Panther Island Adventures!

Panther Island is 2,800 acres of restored wetland and upland habitats situated in the northwest corner of Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary's 13,000 acres. It is home to numerous plants and animals including the Florida panther and the iconic wood stork.
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Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Corkscrew and The Lorax!

Been to see The Lorax or planning on it? Then check out our promotion at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary! See the link below for details.

http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2012/mar/23/audubon-floridas-corkscrew-swamp-sanctuary-offers-/

Monday, March 26, 2012

Critter of the Week March 26: Mottled Duck (Anas fulvigula)


Florida mottled ducks (Anas fulvigula) are year-round residents of Panther Island. They are non-migratory (one of the few in North America) and are closely related to mallard ducks. Interbreeding between these two species does occur and is a worry for the future of the Florida mottled duck.

These birds nest in Florida from February through July. Nests are usually located in dense vegetation such as grasses, saw palmetto, or rushes) situated near water. Clutch size is typically 8-10 eggs with only 1 brood in a year. Incubation last for 24-27 days. Once hatched, the female will actually move the ducklings to the water within 24-48 hours! And the young can fly at 60 to 70 days old.


Their diet consists of grass seeds, stems, and roots along with other marsh plants. They also like bayberries and will consume crayfish, small fish, mollusks, and insects. They can be found in a variety of wetland habitats as well as upland habitats associated with wet areas like ponds, ditches, canals, etc.

While the population appears stable, loss of habitat due to development and agriculture has raised concerns, especially coupled with the hybridization problem (breeding with mallards). For more information about the hybridization problem and what you can do to help please go to: http://myfwc.org/wildlifehabitats/managed/waterfowl/hybridization/.

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Critter of the Week March 5: American Robin (Turdus migratorius)


Sorry for the hiatus! Back in action again now with the American Robin (Turdus migratorius)! This thrush is a common and widespread bird and likely very familiar to everyone. This time of year they are passing through Florida up north since they are winter residents here. They tend to move in larger flocks, and I love to hear their high flight call!

For more info check out the website below!
http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Robin/id/ac