Pets/Wildlife

Florida is abundant with wildlife, and whether it flies or crawls, or swims, our readers sent in a variety of photos from birds to butterflies and, of course, alligators.

We thought we’d take a look back and share some of the creatures we showcased in 2019, in our Local Wildlife feature.

Thanks to our readers for sending in their stories and photos. Keep them coming in 2020!

 

 

Whether your best friend barks or meows, is spunky or mellow, crawls or hops – we know your pets bring a special joy to you throughout the year. We thought we’d take a look back and share some of the pets that were showcased this year in our Pet of the Week feature. Thanks to our readers for sending in their stories and photos. Keep them coming in 2020! And, a look back at the local wildlife photos will be published in our Jan. 1 editions.

 

 

 

Kissy is a 10-year-old Yorkie. She is very friendly and loves to go kayaking. Kissy dislikes loud noises, unless she is the one making them. She loves wearing the dresses her mom sews for her. Kissy lives with her mom, Odalis Diaz, in Wesley Chapel.

Sharon Thompson spotted this pygmy rattlesnake outside her home in Country Walk, in Wesley Chapel. Its tail’s tiny rattle is prone to breaking off. This snake gives birth to live young and does not lay eggs. It feeds on insects, frogs, lizards, small snakes, nestling birds and mice.

Rosie is a sassy little Morkie pup. She has been a huge blessing to her owner, Laura York, of Lutz, after Laura’s mother passed away.

These sandhill cranes were apparently upset when Karen Whitenton’s cat entered the yard, at her home in Lutz, and raised their ‘voices.’

This spicebush swallowtail butterfly’s beauty was captured by Marisol Fontanez, at the Blue Jay Mobile Home Park in Dade City. The butterfly is common in natural areas and flower gardens.

Sabre, a rescue pet, is a 9-year old pitbull/catahoula mix. She loves to swim and go camping. She understands more than 50 words and phrases. Sabre’s proud owners are Nancy and Jim Budinoff, of Wesley Chapel.

Jumping spiders are generally friendly to humans and are not harmful to people. They are carnivorous by nature, but tend to shy away from humans. But, keep yourself protected, as they can sting badly. All jumping spiders have four pairs of eyes. Ray Martinez photographed this jumping spider at his home in Lutz.

Patches is 12 years young, and a rescue dog. She wants to be every person’s friend. Enjoying the heat includes swimming in the gulf and cooling off with an ice cream treat! Patches’ proud parents are Jim and Sue Kirschten, of Land O’ Lakes.