Latest news with #Reptiles
Yahoo
28-07-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
These 5 Florida lakes are most ‘snake-infested' waters in the entire state, ranking says
Reptiles and Florida might as well be synonymous, especially when it comes to our slithering neighbors. According to the WorldAtlas, Florida has 46 native species of snakes, as well as four invasive species — and don't forget the six categories of venomous snakes in the state. "The state of Florida is a hotbed for snake activity. Lush ecosystems spread across a mix of tropical and subtropical climates are tailor-made for these cold-blooded slitherers," the geography website states, adding that snakes are a vital part of our ecosystem. We have more in common with these scaly serpents than we realize. Snakes and humans both love to seek out bodies of water to cool down in the sweltering summers. However, before you go swimming in your local lake, which is already questionable due to our massive alligator population, make sure it isn't also known for its large number of snakes. The Lakes of the Everglades It wouldn't be a list of the most "snake-infested" lakes without the Everglades popping up. WorldAtlas highlighted the lakes of South Florida's national park mainly for their large, unwelcome inhabitant — the Burmese python. These invasive species have dominated the waters within the Everglades for decades. "Because of a combination of intentional releases by dissatisfied pet owners (pythons are popular exotic pets in this region) and 1992's Hurricane Andrew destroying a breeding facility (which released untold specimens into nearby swamps), the population of these snakes has grown at unmanageable rates," the report shares. "Given their overwhelming reproductive habits and the fact that they can grow to over 15 feet in length and weigh over 200 pounds, these stealthy constrictors constitute one of the worst-case examples of invasive species on the planet." Besides the Burmese python, here are some other species you'll find in the Everglades, with those highlighted being venomous: Coral Snake Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake Eastern Garter Snake Eastern Indigo Snake Florida Brown Snake Florida Cottonmouth Pygmy Rattlesnake Rat Snake Lake Okeechobee Moving a smidge north, we're highlighting the largest lake in the state, Lake Okeechobee. It is the tenth-largest freshwater lake in the country. When compared to freshwater lakes contained entirely within the U.S. boundary, it becomes the second-largest lake, surpassed only by Lake Michigan. This 730-square-mile, shallow body of water, situated in the South-Central part of the state, is famous for its largemouth bass and speckled perch, as well as bluegills, Okeechobee catfish, and black crappies. However, other less-popular creatures also lurk nearby. Central and Southern Florida have roughly 34 native species (four of which are venomous) and three invasive species of snakes. With that said, WorldAtlas says the most commonly sighted snakes are Florida green watersnakes, brown watersnakes, the Eastern kingsnake, Brahminy blind snakes, and the Florida king snake. Lake Seminole Northwest of state capital Tallahassee is Florida's Lake Seminole (not to be confused with Lake Seminole on the West coast of Central Florida) is a long and narrow reservoir. Forty-five out of the state's 46 known native species and all six of the venomous varieties are found in the region. WorldAtlas says three different rattlesnakes are reported around Lake Seminole: timber, diamondback, and pygmy. Cottonmouths (also known as the water moccasin) are also found around the lake, sometimes confused with non-venomous watersnakes. Lake Iamonia Leon County's Lake Iamonia is a seven-mile-long prairie lake that drains through a natural sinkhole during dry seasons and reforms when the rains return (despite an unsuccessful attempt at damming and regulating the levels between 1939 and 1980). WorldAtlas states that the lake is popular among photographers, paddlers, and nature lovers. Identified species include banded watersnakes, Florida green watersnakes, cottonmouths, Eastern kingsnakes, corn snakes, red-bellied snakes, Southern ribbon snakes, ringneck snakes, and scarlet snakes. Lake Talquin North Florida's Lake Talquin is our final stop. This former floodplain-turned-manmade reservoir west of Tallahassee is well-stocked with fish and birds, along with their slithering companions. Cottonmouths, red-bellied watersnakes, and brown watersnakes are the big three commonly found in this 15-square-mile lake and around its 40 miles of shoreline, according to WorldAtlas. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida snake population highest in these 5 lakes, study shows Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
28-07-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
These 5 Florida lakes are most ‘snake-infested' waters in the entire state, 2 are in PBC
Reptiles and Florida might as well be synonymous, especially when it comes to our slithering neighbors. According to the WorldAtlas, Florida has 46 native species of snakes, as well as four invasive species — and don't forget the six categories of venomous snakes in the state. "The state of Florida is a hotbed for snake activity. Lush ecosystems spread across a mix of tropical and subtropical climates are tailor-made for these cold-blooded slitherers," the geography website states, adding that snakes are a vital part of our ecosystem. We have more in common with these scaly serpents than we realize. Snakes and humans both love to seek out bodies of water to cool down in the sweltering summers. However, before you go swimming in your local lake, which is already questionable due to our massive alligator population, make sure it isn't also known for its large number of snakes. The Lakes of the Everglades It wouldn't be a list of the most "snake-infested" lakes without the Everglades popping up. WorldAtlas highlighted the lakes of South Florida's national park mainly for their large, unwelcome inhabitant — the Burmese python. These invasive species have dominated the waters within the Everglades for decades. "Because of a combination of intentional releases by dissatisfied pet owners (pythons are popular exotic pets in this region) and 1992's Hurricane Andrew destroying a breeding facility (which released untold specimens into nearby swamps), the population of these snakes has grown at unmanageable rates," the report shares. "Given their overwhelming reproductive habits and the fact that they can grow to over 15 feet in length and weigh over 200 pounds, these stealthy constrictors constitute one of the worst-case examples of invasive species on the planet." Besides the Burmese python, here are some other species you'll find in the Everglades, with those highlighted being venomous: Coral Snake Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake Eastern Garter Snake Eastern Indigo Snake Florida Brown Snake Florida Cottonmouth Pygmy Rattlesnake Rat Snake Lake Okeechobee Moving a smidge north, we're highlighting the largest lake in the state, Lake Okeechobee. It is the tenth-largest freshwater lake in the country. When compared to freshwater lakes contained entirely within the U.S. boundary, it becomes the second-largest lake, surpassed only by Lake Michigan. This 730-square-mile, shallow body of water, situated in the South-Central part of the state, is famous for its largemouth bass and speckled perch, as well as bluegills, Okeechobee catfish, and black crappies. However, other less-popular creatures also lurk nearby. Central and Southern Florida have roughly 34 native species (four of which are venomous) and three invasive species of snakes. With that said, WorldAtlas says the most commonly sighted snakes are Florida green watersnakes, brown watersnakes, the Eastern kingsnake, Brahminy blind snakes, and the Florida king snake. Lake Seminole Northwest of state capital Tallahassee is Florida's Lake Seminole (not to be confused with Lake Seminole on the West coast of Central Florida) is a long and narrow reservoir. Forty-five out of the state's 46 known native species and all six of the venomous varieties are found in the region. WorldAtlas says three different rattlesnakes are reported around Lake Seminole: timber, diamondback, and pygmy. Cottonmouths (also known as the water moccasin) are also found around the lake, sometimes confused with non-venomous watersnakes. Lake Iamonia Leon County's Lake Iamonia is a seven-mile-long prairie lake that drains through a natural sinkhole during dry seasons and reforms when the rains return (despite an unsuccessful attempt at damming and regulating the levels between 1939 and 1980). WorldAtlas states that the lake is popular among photographers, paddlers, and nature lovers. Identified species include banded watersnakes, Florida green watersnakes, cottonmouths, Eastern kingsnakes, corn snakes, red-bellied snakes, Southern ribbon snakes, ringneck snakes, and scarlet snakes. Lake Talquin North Florida's Lake Talquin is our final stop. This former floodplain-turned-manmade reservoir west of Tallahassee is well-stocked with fish and birds, along with their slithering companions. Cottonmouths, red-bellied watersnakes, and brown watersnakes are the big three commonly found in this 15-square-mile lake and around its 40 miles of shoreline, according to WorldAtlas. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida snake population highest in these 5 lakes, study shows Solve the daily Crossword
Chicago Tribune
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Chicago Tribune
Chicago's museums for summer 2025: ‘Reptiles' at the Field, brews at the zoos and ‘Spider-Man' the exhibit
The movement du jour is for a museum to describe its offerings as 'immersive.' It's become a cliché, but it does nod to a cultural trend that predated, then was amplified by, the pandemic: Experiences, not exhibitions, are coaxing folks off their couches and into cultural institutions. That trend crops up in our museum preview this year. In fact, some of these suggested events don't even take place within the confines of their host institution. But if you find that a classic, walk-and-read exhibit can't be beat — I tend to be in that camp — we have plenty of those, too. Adventurers, academics and all-around-curious-people, read on! Kayaking for a cause: Dreaming of afternoons idling down the Chicago River? You can live out your summer fantasy while doing good thanks to the Shedd Aquarium, whose experts will lead conservation tours by kayak all summer long. Fridays and Saturdays through Sept. 27 on the Chicago River; $65 per person; reservations at 'Reptiles Alive!': This exhibit builds on the work of Field Museum herpetologist Sara Ruane, also featured earlier this year as part of the museum's rotating 'Changing Face of Science' exhibition. If you come expecting the usual models or taxidermy, you're in for a treat: 20 live reptiles, including a spitting cobra and emerald tree boa, are housed onsite for the exhibition. June 20 to April 5 at the Field Museum, 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; requires all-access pass, $43 adults, 'Native Pop!': For generations, activists have pushed museums — including many in Chicago — to depict Native Americans' lives as they are, rather than presenting them like a relic of the past. The 'now' is palpable in this Newberry Library showcase of Indigenous artists working in various pop mediums. Through July 19 at the Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton St., open Tuesdays through Thursdays 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; free admission, On at the Art Institute: In addition to its exploration of 'Paris Street; Rainy Day' by painter Gustave Caillebotte, the museum is hosting the largest local retrospective of thought-provoking wartime sculptor H.C. Westermann in decades, open through May 2026. Contemporary art lovers will be agog at Raqib Shaw's epic 'Paradise Lost,' a 21-panel artwork that has never been displayed in its complete form until now (through Jan. 19). Meanwhile, the museum continues to show off its huge collection of Japanese prints with 'The Dawn of Modernity: Japanese Prints, 1850–1900,' in which artists document Japan's encounters with the industrialized West. All at the Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave., open Wednesdays through Mondays 11 a.m.-5 p.m., except Thursdays, open 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; admission $26-$32, Become a researcher for a day: A new exhibition opening at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum allows visitors to try their hands at activities inspired by real-life fieldwork. 'By A Thread: Nature's Resilience' emphasizes that conserving the natural world isn't a passive proposition: It requires everyone's help, including yours. The exhibit opens the same day as the museum's Summer Nature Fest. For $10 admission ($8 children), you can stick around for food and activities after the museum closes. June 20 to June 2026 at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum of the Chicago Academy of Sciences, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, open daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; adult tickets $12-$17, A peek inside: The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry's upcoming 'Beyond the Surface,' exhibit is a deep dive into the X-ray photography of Andrei Duman, starting July 3. The images show the inner workings of everyday objects, such as the many components of a car or the delicate wiring of a corded telephone. If you can't wait for that, a current exhibition in the spirit of the museum's recent '007 Science' feature, 'Marvel's Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing.' is open through February, though it's a little light on the science. Both at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, open daily 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; admission $26 adults. 'Marvel's Spider-Man' requires an additional ticket costing adults $18-$22; reservations and more information at Boozy zoos: The Brookfield Zoo is becoming a watering hole in the name of wildlife conservation. Next up are 'Tequila and Tails' and 'Wines and Vines,' the latter doubling as the opening of the Zoo's new Tropical Forests habitat. (Non-drinkers rejoice: Mocktail tickets are available for a lower price.) Lincoln Park Zoo also revives its own drinker-friendly summer events with craft breweries and wineries posting up on zoo grounds. 'Tequila and Tails' on June 14 and 'Wines and Vines' on Aug. 23, both 6-9 p.m. at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 31st Street and Golfview Avenue, Brookfield; non-member tickets $105 or $70 for mocktails, 'Craft Brews' on June 28 and 'Summer Wine Fest' on July 25, both 7-10 p.m. at the Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St.; admission $57; tickets and more information at Waltz of the flowers: After experiencing the lushness of the Chicago Botanic Gardens in midsummer, step into Nichols Hall for a reprise of 'Superbloom,' the dance work premiered by Chicago company The Seldoms in 2023. For those who can't make the three performances, Art on the Mart has commissioned a video version to be projected in full view of the Riverwalk (Thursdays through Sundays July 10-Sept. 7). July 25-27 at the Chicago Botanic Gardens, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe; tickets $27-$29 adults. Show times and more information at Museum multiplayer: On your hands and knees, begging your kids to do something besides playing video games all summer? Take them to the American Writers Museum, whose 'Level Up: Writers & Gamers' shines a rare spotlight on the scribes behind their favorite titles. Open through Nov. 2 at the American Writers Museum, 180 N. Michigan Ave., open Thursdays through Mondays 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; admission $10-$16, Home is where the history is: If you haven't yet been to the recently opened National Public Housing Museum in Little Italy, it's high time to fix that. Spend an afternoon exploring its attentively curated exhibitions for free, or, for a small sum, take a guided tour through recreations of real families' units on museum grounds, in the former Jane Addams Homes. 919 S. Ada St., open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays; free admission, $15-$25 apartment tours can be scheduled at
Arab News
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
City Walk brings wildlife encounters to Jeddah
JEDDAH: Nature lovers are heading to the Birds and Reptiles Cave, part of Jeddah Season, at City Walk for a wild experience. The exhibit, which runs until June 14, presents visitors with an array of exotic animals, from vibrant, free-flying birds to reptiles housed in carefully crafted enclosures. Visitors can touch, feed, and observe tame species under the supervision of experts and handlers. More than 50 rare and exotic bird species from Indonesia, Australia, Africa, and South America are part of the experience this year. Mohammed Bukhari, one of the exhibit's wildlife experts, said, 'We offer a unique experience that weaves together the magic and diversity of nature's wildlife within an entertaining and consumer-friendly environment.' More than 50 rare and exotic bird species from Indonesia, Australia, Africa, and South America are part of the Birds and Reptiles Cave. He emphasized the cave's broad appeal, noting that it caters to both wildlife enthusiasts and casual visitors. 'Parents are increasingly bringing their kids to connect with nature and experience wildlife,' Bukhari added. 'From schoolchildren to the elderly, everyone gets rejuvenated and energized after spending some time exploring nature with such birds and reptiles.' Hamdaan Al Buadaani from Taif, who visited the cave with his son, said: 'My son was very happy to see birds flying over his head, holding little snakes in his hand, touching the big and small turtles and getting up close with macaws, owls, kangaroo and monkeys.' Adel Al-Mansouri, who visited with his family, praised the cave as a great outing for children. 'It is an ideal place to view reptiles and birds,' he said. 'There is a good variety of birds and reptiles and my kids were so happy to touch and play with birds.'
