Nature and Animals

Love is in the air! Well, at least love bugs. So, it must be nearly summertime in Punta Gorda! As my husband Saint Bob and I get ready to mark six years as full-time residents, I look back at our edification, or Florida education, of the things we now know to be part and parcel […]

Below are before and after photos from the center of the Sagehorn Lane cul de sac. In addition to Sagehorn, the cul de sac on San Lucas Lane, as well as other areas in BSL, are inspiring residents to take pride in their neighborhood. Enhancing our community is a highly desirable endeavor, and we encourage […]

WILDLIFE IN FOCUS Featured Resident, Athena… ATHENA AND THE ROLE OF EDUCATION ANIMALS Athena, our only Barn Owl and one of our permanent residents, offers a rare opportunity to experience a species that is typically seen only in passing, if at all. As a nocturnal hunter, Barn Owls play an important role in our ecosystem, […]

We share our homes, our beds and our hearts with our pets, yet much of the “common knowledge” we rely on to care for them may be rooted in outdated folklore rather than modern veterinary science. Whether it’s a tip passed down from a neighbor or a viral post on social media, pet myths can […]

Gopher tortoises are often referred to as ecosystem engineers due to their significant impact on their surroundings. Their burrowing behavior creates habitats for numerous other species, including snakes, frogs, and insects. These burrows, which can be as deep as 10 feet and extend horizontally up to 40 feet, offer a stable environment that protects many […]

Dear POA Residents, We would like to remind everyone of the importance of exercising caution around lakes, ponds, and other bodies of water within our community. While serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) provides clear guidance to prevent dangerous encounters: • Keep a safe distance if […]

A resident of a Florida aquarium confirmed to be at least 71 years old has been certified as the oldest manatee ever by Guinness World Records. The record-keeping organization said Romeo, a resident at the Gulfarium on Okaloosa Island, was found in the wild in 1957 and was estimated to be 2-5 years old, making him at […]

Residents, This notice serves as a reminder of zero-tolerance enforcement for fishing activities in Burnt Store Lakes. Fishing Is Permitted ONLY Under The Following Conditions: • Fishing privileges may be extended only to house guests and only while they are guests (owners must be present with the guest at all times). • When fishing away […]

Florida’s warm, humid climate provides an ideal habitat for various spider species, including some that may wander indoors. While spiders help keep pest populations down, homeowners can benefit from knowing which species they’re most likely to encounter. Here’s a guide to some of Florida’s common spiders, with tips for identifying and understanding them. The Most […]

Coyotes are found throughout Florida. This adaptable animal belongs to the dog family and resembles a small German shepherd. In Florida, coyotes typically weigh between 15 to 30 pounds. They have pointed ears, a narrow muzzle and a bushy tail. Males tend to be larger than females. Coyote fur is usually grayish brown but occasionally […]