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While the osprey bears a strong resemblance to several kinds of hawks, it is actually classified in its own separate family as a fish hawk.The osprey is the only North American hawk whose diet is almost exclusively live fish, both freshwater and saltwater. It takes lots of protein (rich in Omega-3 fatty acids) to fuel […]
Common Gallinule (Gallinula geleata) This year-round resident of Siesta Key and Sarasota County is also a familiar sight throughout the eastern United States. The gallinule’s most unusual feature is a bright-red shield on its forehead, making it anything but common. The bird is a study in color contrast, with vibrant red and yellow accents set […]
March crime, visitor stats similar between 2019 and 2021 Having heard from Siesta residents who believe crime is rising on the Key, Kaitlyn Perez, community affairs director for the Sheriff’s Office, was asked for some comparison data. During the April 1 meeting of the Siesta Key Association, Sgt. Arik Smith, leader of the Sheriff’s Office […]
Sea turtle nesting season is among us, lasting until Oct. 31. So, it’s once again time to get out of one’s shell and spread the word. Newbies to Siesta Key should know that turtle protection is a local topic taken very seriously. Sarasota County hosts the highest density of loggerhead nests in the Gulf of […]
Turkey vulture (Carthartes auro) Broad wings with outstretched finger-like tips, along with a bright-red featherless head and pale yellow bill, are some key traits that make this large raptor easy to spot. From a distance, the turkey vulture in flight is often confused with an eagle or osprey. However, if it appears to turn wobbly […]
Snowy Egret Egretta thula These graceful and delicate wading birds are smaller cousins to the Great Egret. In the late 1800s, the snowy egret was nearly hunted to extinction for its striking plumage. While their numbers rebounded following protective legislation in the 20th century, snowy egret numbers are once again in decline with the loss […]
A happy, two-year old, ball of fluffy white fur, Kevin’s nickname is “Mr. Fluffy Pants.” Weighing in at 12 lbs., Kevin is a complete and devoted lap dog who loves to play with pull toys, and his bright red ball. Shoes of all kind are his favorite things to munch on and “lunch” is his […]
Sanderling Calidris alba The sanderling is just one of many sandpipers found on Siesta Key’s three public beaches. Of all the migratory snowbirds that winter on the Key, the sanderling has one of the most grueling commutes. At just seven inches in length and weighing three ounces, the sanderling flies roughly 3,500 miles from its […]
Ripley is an 18-month old Bernedoodle. She is part Bernese Mountain Dog and 75% miniature poodle. She is a smart girl and is quite the diva. Loves other dogs and is a big fan of playdates and car rides. She has a big appetite and always wants whatever is on dad’s plate. She knows he […]
Attribution: Kyle Baker, Senior Pet Food Nutritionist If you’re a long-time dog parent and have your pup’s diet plan locked in after years of refinement, we’re guessing you might be buying food in bulk. It’s a time and money saving trick that many dog parents use to streamline canine care, but without proper oversight it […]