Documentos de Académico
Documentos de Profesional
Documentos de Cultura
spring/summer 2010
2 Word Fun
Kids Corner
3
Should I be worried about
dangerous plants during my
leisure activities?
Ask A Naturalist Kevin Bender Photography
6 Word Scramble
Kids Corner
In addition to
its scientific
regularly, particularly in the marshy
areas of South County Regional Park,
7 Steve Krulik at Green Cay name (Anhinga Loxahatchee, Green Cay Nature Center
Nature Center anhinga,) and Wetlands, and Okeeheelee Park.
Volunteer Spotlight the anhinga Their range extends to the entire gulf
is known as coast, Mexico, Central America, Cuba,
Kevin Bender Photography
pbcparks.com/nature
2
Available online: www. Nature-alley spring/summer 2010
ask
From Daggerwing on page 2
Naturalist
you are sure to find one you
would be perfect for! For more
information and to get an
application, contact Danica
Sanborn at (561) 629-8760.
Daggerwing Programs
Public Programs
Daggerwing Nature Center offers
by Steven Bergkamp, Riverbend Park biodiversity needed for healthy stable a variety of interactive, nature-
growth and survival. based programs. They include:
► Night Hikes
Having said that, just as we have
learned to look both ways prior ► Alligator Feedings
to crossing the street, a basic ► Children’s Programs
understanding of potentially dangerous ► Live Animal Encounters
plants is wise for those who walk, bike, ► Guided Nature Walks
and hike in our wild Florida.
► Winter, Spring, and
The following is a list of some potentially Summer Camps
dangerous plants that one may ► Special Celebrations
Undoubtedly, many of us remember encounter while engaging in leisure (Earth Day, Halloween)
those scenes from old movies where activities in local natural areas and parks:
huge flowers swallowed people whole Group Programs
like Audrey Jr. from Little Shop of Brazilian pepper (non-native) We also provide programs for
Horrors with the famous line, “Feed may be poisonous–dermal school groups (incorporating
me Seymore” or the fast-growing Caesar weed (non-native) Sunshine State Standards) and
creeping vine that engulfed the house may be poisonous–ingestion private groups such as birthday
in Jumanji. Those were some ferocious See page four of this issue to learn how parties, scout troops, camps,
plants! Luckily, there are no known to identify caesar weed. nature clubs, church groups,
flowering plants or vines which match ‘mommy and me’ groups,
Lantana camara (non-native)
the cinematic ferocity of these movies. senior adult centers, libraries,
may be poisonous–ingestion
However, that doesn’t mean we are etc. Program topics include:
“out of the woods” when it comes to Milkweed may be poisonous to pets/ ► Nature Center and
dangerous plants. animals–ingestion Boardwalk Tour
Oak trees acorns and buds may be ► Amphibians
As we enjoy the beauty of our natural
poisonous to pets/animals–ingestion ► Birds
areas it is prudent to remember that
even though there are no man-eating Old World Climbing Fern also known as ► Reptiles
plants climbing and twining through our lygodium (non-native) ► Insects or Butterflies
parks, we may encounter some plants may be poisonous–ingestion ► Marine Mammals
that can pack a punch and be potentially Pokeweed may be poisonous–ingestion ► Plants
dangerous to touch or consume. These ► Recycling
plants have subtle and not so subtle Poison ivy may be poisonous–dermal
For all programs, naturalists use
ways of reminding us that they have Rosary pea (non-native) may be live animals, models, interesting
developed interesting ways to survive. poisonous–ingestion facts, and other fun materials
Plant defense mechanisms range from; to teach about Florida’s natives
Sawgrass sharp edges; take caution
fine hairs that can sting, to prickles and when canoeing and conservation. Program
thorns that can tear, to saps and oils fees vary per program and are
that can irritate skin. Some parts of Virginia creeper may be poisonous– nominal. For more information
plants, if eaten, have the potential to be dermal on reserving a program, visit
fatal. However, to eliminate these native Wild mushrooms (various) our website or call the nature
plants would rob our natural areas of the may be poisonous–ingestion center at (561) 629-8760.
pbcparks.com/nature
3
Nature-alley spring/summer 2010 Available online: www.
by Greg Atkinson, Parks Division Natural Areas Program
Invasive, non-native plants are plants that would not normally exist and/or naturally occur within this
region, yet have been introduced, established, and disrupts naturally occurring vegetation. They are
prolific seed producers. With no known natural enemies within this region, they spread rapidly throughout
Membership and Animal Adoption Palm Beach County and the rest of Florida. These invaders destroy natural habitat, out-competing native
The Friends of Green Cay Nature plants for space, soil, sunlight, air, and water. This loss of habitat impacts Florida wildlife. Local and State
governments are also affected, spending millions of dollars annually to control these invasive, non-native
Center, Inc. is a non-profit
plants and restore the natural habitat. Learn to identify the caesar weed and earleaf acacia, two invasive,
organization that raises money non-native plants that have invaded Palm Beach County.
to support the Nature Center
in its mission to promote an
understanding appreciation of CAESAR WEED EARLEAF ACACIA
the natural world to the public. Scientific name: Urena lobata Scientific name: Acacia auriculiformis
You can show your support by
becoming a member, adopting Family: Malvaceae/Mallow Family: Fabaceae/Pea
an animal, and visiting the Origin: Old world & New world tropics Origin: Australia, Papua New Guinea,
gift shop. Your tax-deductible and Indonesia
contribution will go directly Description:
to benefit the Nature Center Branching herb, partly woody shrub, Description:
in ways such as feeding our reaching up to 9 feet in height. Leaves Tall upright tree, to 55 feet in height
animals, maintaining exhibits, alternate, ovate, shallowly lobed, fine- with short trunk and rounded head, light
and improving programs. toothed, hairy, 5 to10 cm long. Flowers are green. Narrow green leaves, 5-8 inches
pink, petals 5, bases united. Fruit is small, long, are thin blade-like, slightly curved.
New or Renewed Friends of spiny, round, 5 parted capsule, splitting Flowers from spring to fall, flowers are
Green Cay Memberships once mature. loose, yellow-orange spikes, with clusters
Robert Ohl; Kathleen Murphey of spikes at stem tips. Fruits are a flat,
+ James Powers; Mr. & Mrs. Habitat/Ecology:
Occurs in various habitats including pine oblong pod, twisted at maturity, splits
Egon J. Salmon; Dr. Alfred &
Barbara Rosenblatt; Paul & flatwoods, cypress swamps, marshes, open to reveal flat black seeds attached
Sherry Cummings; Marlene and hammocks, quick to establish itself by orange, string like strap.
Gart; H. P. Jeffries; Sharon Horn; along disturbed areas. Flowers and fruits Habitat/Ecology:
Leslie Goodman; Jerald Finkel; throughout the year, seeds are abundant, Occurs in pine flat woods, scrub, and
Martin Kaye; Mariluz M. Lopez;
Dorothy Gallo; Ira Dischler;
often dispersed by sticking to clothing and hammocks, but also common in disturbed
Mimi Zimmer; Kenneth & animal fur/hair. areas, has adapted to nutrient poor soils,
Julie Marx; Barbara Newcomb; displacing native vegetation. Grows in a
Donnie & Connie Shackleford; wide range of soil types, is particularly
Betty Solomon; Judy Wolosoff; drought resistant, however, can tolerate
Marion Schwartz; Don and seasonally waterlogged soils. Flowers from
Audrey Witman; Karen Sloan; spring to fall, fruiting prolifically, seeds are
William Ross; Bob and Mary
Seiden; Teresa Bevan; Fran
dispersed by several bird species.
Swirsky; Glenda Thompson;
Linda Kogin; Sherri Berlin;
Hy Margolis; Mrs. Charles
Jennings; Susan Collins; Sydelle
and Bernard Dombrowsky; John
Helft; Bruce Rosenberg; Linda/
Beck Wagshul; Sheldon Rabb
▲ leaves
We have a variety of animals
(such as alligators, frogs, turtles,
and snakes) to choose from
that are up for “adoption.” The
animal you “adopt” will remain
at the Nature Center to be cared ▲ flower
for by staff, but when you visit,
you can develop a bond with ◄ seed cluster/capsule
your new friend while learning
more about the animal. Animal ▲ leaves
adoptions make great gifts!
mature pods and seeds ►
See Green Cay on page 5
pbcparks.com/nature
4
Available online: www. Nature-alley spring/summer 2010
From Green Cay on page 4
From Animal Tracks on page 1 speed. Once a fish is speared, the bird
New or Renewed Friends of
brings it above water, flips it into the air, Green Cay Animal Adoptions
and swallows it head first.
Stephanie Facciola–
For the most part, anhingas are solitary Florida soft-shelled turtle
birds, but are sometimes seen among Beth Morris– slider turtle
groups of ibises, herons, cormorants, Justin Littman– scarlet kingsnake
bird may not be a fast swimmer, but it is heading For more information about
a very fast hunter. It has a special hinge- home. Green Cay Nature Center, visit
like structure in its neck that allows it to www.pbcparks.com/nature and
click on Green Cay.
thrust its sharp bill forward with lightning
pbcparks.com/nature
5
Nature-alley spring/summer 2010 Available online: www.
Okeeheelee Nature Center
Volunteer Opportunities Thank You, Daggerwing Volunteers! stillborn or infant death and holds annual
events to honor and remember their late
► School Program Docent children. The group planted many varieties
► Front Desk Greeter
Daggerwing Nature Center’s gardens have of butterfly plants in memory of their
► Exhibit Docent been recognized by the Florida Federation babies and released a number of different
► Habitat Mgmt. Assistant of Garden Clubs, Inc. as a Certified Butterfly varieties of butterflies.
► Animal Caretaker
► Nature Walk Guide
Sanctuary. Congratulations to Daggerwing on Daggerwing Nature Center also hosted
► Newsletter Assistant this prestigious achievement! a “United We Serve” day of service
coordinated by the Jewish Federation of
► Butterfly Gardener Daggerwing Nature Center would like to South Palm Beach County as a response
► Research Assistant extend our warmest thanks to Zale Pre- to President Obama’s national call to
school, the Jewish Federation of South volunteer. They helped weed, remove
Naturalist Programs Palm Beach County, and the Butterflies trash from the swamp, and walk tortoises
► Animal Presentations
from Heaven Foundation. All three groups as a way to give back to the community.
► Nature Walks
held annual events at the Daggerwing
► Raptor Chapter The Daggerwing butterfly garden has
Nature Center and helped beautify our
► Deer Walks never looked better thanks to the efforts
butterfly garden.
► Scout Programs of all of these groups! We also want to
Zale Pre-school selected this project so thank our volunteer groups that did other
School Programs their students could work hand-in-hand projects! In February, the Donna Klein
Okeeheelee Nature Center with their parents in a planting project. Jewish Academy Mitzvah Day participants
offers field trip programs and Their donation of butterfly plants, time, picked up trash throughout the park,
outreach sessions (Palm Beach and efforts has been greatly appreciated and in March, Tippy Rosen’s Mitzvah Day
County only) to students of by the Daggerwing staff as well as by the group planted a vegetable garden that will
all ages for a nominal fee. All many visitors that visit the garden daily. help feed our nature center critters.
programs are designed to meet This year, Daggerwing hosted Butterflies If you are interested in your group having
Sunshine State Standards. from Heaven’s annual event again. The a volunteer day at Daggerwing Nature
Preschool Butterflies from Heaven Foundation was Center, please contact Danica Sanborn
► Nature Adventures, 10:00 - created by four bereaved mothers who at (561) 629-8764. We look forward to
11:00 am (1 hr.) understand how the death of a baby can hearing from you! Thanks again to all of
affect a family. The Foundation reaches our participants!
out to assist and support families with a
See Okeeheelee on page 7
pbcparks.com/nature
6
Available online: www. Nature-alley spring/summer 2010
From Okeeheelee on page 6
Spotlight
Volunteer
Kindergarten
► Butterflies and Birds,
10:00 - 11:30 am (1.5 hr.)
First Grade / Second Grade
► Animal Homes and Habitats,
10:00 am - 12:00 noon
(2 hr.)
Steve Krulik at Green Cay Nature Center Second Grade / Third Grade
by Stephanie Langson Canter family moved to Cherry ► Nature Detectives, 10:00 am
Green Cay Nature Center Hill, New Jersey. He taught - 12:00 noon (2 hr.)
Steve was born in Brooklyn, teachers how to teach math Also available - Reptile, Insect,
New York, in 1933. He to their elementary and and Marine Programs
graduated from Erasmus Hall high school pupils and is Fourth Grade
High School in June 1950. a published author of over
► SWAMP (Wednesday only),
Erasmus Hall was the first thirty books. Though he fully
10:00 am- 1:00 pm (there
secondary school chartered retired in August 2009, he
will be a lunch break) (3 hr.)
by the New York State Board just started working on a
of Regents in 1786. It was new book for math teachers Fourth Grade / Fifth Grade
gifted to the New York Public with the Associate Dean of ► Raptor Mania (Birds of Prey),
School System in 1896. The the College of Education at 10:00 am- 12:00 noon (2 hr.)
original academy building, City College of New York. The
We are adaptable! We will
now a museum, is a New publisher is The McGraw-Hill
Companies, Inc. and the tailor our program to fit your
York City landmark and is listed in the
subject is pupil motivation. needs. Please let us know if
National Register of Historic Places.
you have a particular interest
He entered Brooklyn College in September Steve played high school and college or concept that you would like
1950 and graduated in June 1954, basketball and continues to be physically us to focus on. Our programs
earning a BA in Mathematics. Beginning active working out at the gym, swimming, are designed to meet Sunshine
in January 1954, he taught math at the and walking. He likes to play bridge and to
State Standards.
Samuel J. Tilden High School, then at read mysteries, spy stories, vaudeville, and
Lafayette High School, and at various biographies. Middle School / High School
other schools for the next fifteen years. Steve became interested in nature as a boy ► Marine Biology
Simultaneously, he entered Columbia scout. He later became a nature counselor ► Raptors
University in September 1954 and at camps for many years. Steve and Gladys ► Adaptations
graduated with a Masters in Mathematics have traveled to many of the National Parks ► Reptiles
Education in June 1955. He continued his in the U.S., Canada, and Costa Rica, and ► Fire Ecology program
studies at Columbia and earned a Doctor they have been to Europe, Asia, Israel,
of Education Ed.D degree in June 1961. Outreach Programs
Mexico, and Central America.
Steve met Gladys, a social worker, on a We can come to your school
They bought a home in Boynton Beach,
blind date in February 1959 and they were and present programs to larger
Florida, in 1999 and Steve became a
married the following December. They have groups. The following programs
docent at Green Cay Nature Center and
two married children, Nancy and Jeff. Jeff are available:
Wetlands when it opened in 2005. “Places
is a lawyer, an Assistant District Attorney of like Green Cay are terribly important to the ► Raptors
Philadelphia. Jeff’s wife Amy is the Director environment. They help recycle water, lend ► Reptiles
of the Jewish Relief Agency which supplies support to the animals and birds, and give ► Florida Native Animals
food to needy Jewish families in the pleasure to people.” Steve enjoys taking Please call the Nature Center at
Philadelphia area; they have two children, the children and adults on boardwalk tours, (561) 233-1400 for scheduling
Sarah and Emily. Nancy is the author and when there’s a children’s program
of over 200 children’s books. Nancy’s and fees, and to request a field
in progress, he is usually there teaching,
husband Dan has a PhD in music and is trip reservation form.
teaching, teaching – always teaching.
a musician, composer, and teacher; they For more information about
have two children, Amanda and Ian. From page 6
Okeeheelee Nature Center, visit
WORD SCRAMBLE Answers
When Steve got a teaching position in 1. ALLIGATOR; 2. BEARDED DRAGON; 3. GOPHER www.pbcparks.com/nature and
math education at Temple University, TORTOISE; 4. GREEN IGUANA; 5. BALL PYTHON; click on Okeeheelee.
Philadelphia, in September 1969, the 6. MELALEUCA; 7. COCOPLUM; 8. MOCKINGBIRD
pbcparks.com/nature
7
Nature-alley spring/summer 2010 Available online: www.
Daggerwing Nature Center Green Cay Nature Center Okeeheelee Nature Center
11200 Park Access Road
Boca Raton, FL 33498
12800 Hagen Ranch Road
Boynton Beach, FL 33437
7715 Forest Hill Boulevard
West Palm Beach, FL 33413
Nature-alley
(561) 629-8760 (561) 966-7000 (561) 233-1400 spring/summer 2010
Boardwalks / Nature Trails Open Daily DAWN to DUSK Palm Beach County
Parks and Recreation Department
Nature Center Exhibit Hours VARY - CALL FOR CURRENT HOURS 2700 Sixth Avenue South
Lake Worth, Florida 33461
(561) 966-6600
www.pbcparks.com
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Burt Aaronson, Chair
Karen T. Marcus, Vice Chair
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Robert Weisman
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Riverbend Park Natural Areas Program Loggerhead Marinelife Ctr. River Center Parks & Recreation Department
Dennis Eshleman, Director
9060 Indiantown Rd. 2700 6th Ave. South 14200 U.S. Highway 1 805 N. U.S. Highway 1
Jupiter, FL 33478 Lake Worth, FL 33461 Juno Beach, FL 33408 Jupiter, FL 33477 Eric Call, Assistant Director
(561) 966-6617 (561) 963-6736 (561) 627-8280 (561) 743-7123 Printed on Recycled Paper
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