Critters in our Midst: Discover the Diverse Wildlife of the Upper Florida Keys

Captivating photographs and thoughtful personal stories explore the rich diversity of wildlife found in the Upper Florida Keys.At the entrance to the Florida Keys island chain, lie the preservation lands of Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge and Dagny Johnson North Key Largo Hammocks Botanical State Park. Fifty years ago this area in North Key Largo was slated for development. Carol Ellis introduces you to the critters that depend upon this unique and threatened tropical environment. Her compelling stories, illustrated with more than 200 color photographs, are based on local history, personal observation, and scientific research.Magnificent photos capture in rich detail some of the critters there including the endangered Schaus Swallowtail butterfly, the Florida Crocodile, and Key Largo Woodrat. The invasive Burmese python’s arrival is a threat to the small mammals, whose population is being decimated to satisfy the snake’s voracious appetite. Meanwhile, furry critters such as the opossum and Northern raccoon are adapting to urban areas. Migrating White Crowned pigeons, Painted Buntings and numerous warbler species feast on native fruits, seeds and insects, while a rare pair of Black Swan forage on the seagrass flats. White and Brown Pelicans, Blue Herons that can be white, blue or both colors, and Tarpon call this area home for at least some of the year.This reference book is for Keys visitors and locals alike. Ellis believes you cannot blame people for not doing the right thing if they have not first been educated about the subject. "Critters in our Midst" is a collection of her writings about the fragile Keys environment, the creatures that live there, and how to take positive steps to sustain wildlife wherever you are. Each critter has a unique story. Ellis describes how some critters have adapted to man, while others are nearly gone, and how citizens and scientists are working toward their survival. Ellis encourages us to pause and reflect on our ability to live in harmony with all creatures.Ellis is a Master Gardener, whose sustainable Florida yard is located in North Key Largo, writes about how to attract wildlife to your yard by following simple guidelines. As long as the critters have the food, shelter, water and habitat they need to survive, we can all coexist peacefully.Ellis, a Florida native and 40-year resident of the North Key Largo explains, "Nature is what attracted me to the Keys in the first place, and though it is forever changing and becoming less rustic, we must share with our visitors and friends the importance of preservation. Contact: [email protected] Read more