Pets/Wildlife

Reggie Robinson came across this Cottonmouth near water at Asturia on State Road 54 in Land O’ Lakes. The snake is a species of pit viper, found in the southeastern United States. Cottonmouths are usually found in slow-moving and shallow lakes, streams and marshes.

Finn is a 1-year-old Belgian Malinois, and was rescued at 4 months old. He was left tied up at an old apartment complex, and Adelyn Adams of Land O’ Lakes was able to give him a forever home. Finn is the best friend anyone could ask for. He is obsessed with his green ball, and loves to play fetch all of the time. Finn is extremely loyal and very protective.

Mike Ray, of Lutz, came upon this snapping turtle, approximately 30 inches long, crossing Henley Road. Snapping turtles live only in fresh or brackish water. They prefer water with muddy bottoms and lots of vegetation, so that they can hide more easily. Snapping turtles spend almost all their time in water, but do go on land to lay eggs in sandy soil.

Reggie Robinson caught these turkeys ‘gobbling’ along on State Road 54 near Asturia, just west of the Suncoast Parkway. These nine are just a handful of the more than 7 million wild turkeys spread throughout North America (according to TheSpruce.com).

Apple is a 4-year-old albino rabbit that doesn’t mind being photographed with his family members every Easter. After all, he does resemble the Cadbury Easter Bunny! He loves to eat strawberry tops, and other fruit and vegetable scraps. Apple is part of the Brown Family, of Land O’ Lakes.