A depiction of the “Bardin Booger” via Jaxlore.com
Florida, known for its sunny beaches, theme parks, vibrant wildlife, and nightlife, has a rich tradition of eccentric lore of ghostly legends and even cryptids — animals that resemble humans but often have ape-like characteristics as well.
A North American Right Whale breeches off of the Atlantic coast. Photo: Nick Hawkins / ifaw.org
“Thar Be Whales Here” is more than just a movie line made famous by Engineer Montgomery Scott in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home – it’s a fact that many Floridians are not aware of. For few months each year, the majestic creatures do indeed swim just off of Florida’s east coast.
Flamingos in their natural habitat. Photo: Elilicht, CC 3.0
Rep. Jim Mooney, a Republican from Islamorada, has filed a bill (HB 81) that would make the Flamingo Florida’s state bird. If passed, flamingos would replace the Northern mockingbird, which has been the state’s bird since 1927.
This week, a routine fishing trip turned extraordinary for Yulee resident Alberto Vanegas when he reeled in a 9- to 10-foot great white shark from the shore of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island.
Cole Taschman recovers in a Martin County hospital after undergoing two surgeries and receiving 93 stitches for his injuries. Photo: Cole Taschman
Stuart, FL — Local surfer and fishing charter operator Cole Taschman, 28, is recovering at home after a frightening encounter with a shark while surfing at Martin County’s Bathtub Beach in Stuart. This is the second time Taschman has survived a shark bite at the same beach, his first occurring over a decade ago in 2013.
Workers prepare the iconic SS United States for its final journey from Pennsylvania to Florida. Photo: SSUSC
Iconic Ocean Liner to Become World’s Largest Artificial Reef
In September, FMN reported on an ambitious plan to bring the SS United States to Florida as an artificial reef. At the time, the move seemed almost a certainty, and after one final legal challenge, it has become a reality. The SS United States, a symbol of maritime innovation and American excellence since its 1951 launch, is set to begin its final journey—not across the Atlantic, but toward an extraordinary new life beneath the waves. In a quiet ceremony on October 12, 2024, the SS United States Conservancy transferred ownership of the ship to Okaloosa County, Florida, marking the end of a long and contentious legal battle over the vessel’s future.
A captivating sight for children and adults alike, I’ve never seen anyone who didn’t stop to watch a beautiful butterfly as it fluttered on by. So, in this short article I’ll share a few tips on photographing butterflies and how to capture truly awesome, wall-hanging shots of these gorgeous insects.
The SS United States is to be evicted from her Philadelphia dock of 28 years. She has until September 2024 to find a new home, and it may well be Florida. Credit: Wikicommons
The SS United States, once the fastest and most luxurious ocean liner to ever sail the seas, now finds itself at the heart of a fierce battle between those who want to preserve its legacy and those who see it as a perfect candidate for a Florida artificial reef. As the clock ticks toward a September court-mandated deadline, the fate of this American maritime icon has never been more uncertain—or more passionately debated.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis speaks during a press conference on Wednesday. Photo: State of Florida
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has put a hold on a proposal to introduce extensive developments, including golf courses, pickleball courts, and 350-room hotels, to state parks following widespread public and political opposition. The governor announced the decision at a press conference on Wednesday, marking his first public remarks since the proposals from his administration were leaked last week.
Celebrity Chef Gordon Ramsay participated in the 2017 Challenge for his cooking series, “The F Word”, capturing three pythons. Photo: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
The Florida Python Challenge is an annual event aimed at removing invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades ecosystem. The event, sponsored by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, began in 2013, making it an ongoing effort for over 11 years.
We at FMN are always looking for something unique and fun to do, and this place fits the bill. Do you want to experience the excitement of a safari but don’t want to travel to Africa? Wild Florida may be the answer you’ve been looking for. Located in east central Florida’s Osceola County near Orlando, the Wild Florida park offers Drive Thru Safaris, Airboat Adventures, walking tours, a gator park, and much more.
Three Sisters Spring Photo: Three Sisters Spring website
When one thinks of Florida, images of sun-soaked beaches and theme parks often come to mind. However, nestled within the state’s lush landscapes are a series of natural wonders that offer a refreshing escape from the bustling city life. Florida’s springs, with their crystal-clear waters and serene environments, provide a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located just a short drive from Orlando, these springs promise a rejuvenating experience. Here’s a guide to some of the most captivating springs you can visit, each with its own unique charm.
