Nature

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Be mindful at the beach, sea turtles are hatching

Remember, beach goers are guests in wildlife’s natural environment It is sea turtle nesting season in South Walton along our beaches. As of Aug. 5, 2011, 36 sea turtle nests have been laid this season, and more are are expected. There are also hundreds of baby turtles hatching in the evening hours along our beaches. If you see a sea turtle, it is important to stay out of its way. Do not put your hands on or near the turtle....

Are black bears dangerous?

It is not very likely for black bears to attack people in the Deep South From the Desk of the FWC –  By Stan Kirkland, FWC It’s been all over the news recntly about a group of seven young teenagers on a month-long survival-skills course in the Talkeetna Mountains of Alaska, being attacked by a grizzly bear sow with a cub. Immediately after the attack, the group activated a personal locator beacon, which brought Alaska state troopers and help.  Thankfully,...

Rough surf conditions in South Walton from tropical storm Don

Red flags flying today Tropical storm Don brings rough conditions to the beaches of South Walton July 28, 2011.  The bumpy/choppy surf conditions this morning are a windy swell building a bit this afternoon into SSE winds 10-15 knots. South Walton Fire District advises staying close to shore.  Even though the wave heights are only around 2 feet, there WILL BE some strong rip currents across our beaches today. Rip current risk: high…a high risk of rip currents means that wind,...

Beginning bird watching program at Florida State College Aug. 4

Learn the basics of birding from an expert The Choctawhatchee Audubon Society kicks off it’s exciting 2011-2012 schedule with a program on beginning bird watching with master birder, Lenny Fenimore. This will be a great opportunity for those who might have an interest to gain the knowledge and practical tips which are necessary for enjoying the hobby. Birds can be elusive subjects for study, and Lenny’s presentation will arm the newcomer with tools which will help to avoid disappointment and...

Get in free at a Florida State Park July 17

Celebrate National Recreation and Parks month at a park near you In honor of July being recognized as National Recreation and Parks Month, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Park Service invites visitors to explore Florida’s 160 state parks this Sunday, July 17, 2011 free of charge. All 160 Florida State Parks (except Skyway Fishing Pier) will offer free day-use entry for this day only. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, including Buccaneer Bay, as well as Ellie Schiller Homosassa...

Wading birds forage in South Walton

Early morning brings birding opportunities Early risers may have a great opportunity to watch some beautiful birds. These wading birds were spotted two mornings in a row foraging in a wetland area off of J.D. Miller Road in South Walton County. Some of the birds spotted around 6 a.m. were white ibis, little blue herons, great egrets along with mottled colored first summer white ibis and juvenile little blue herons....