The annual “Delicate Balance of Nature” lecture series returns to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo on Wednesday, Jan. 15 with a discussion on the invasive Burmese python.
The lecture series will resume its weekly in-person format with eight presentations on Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. The series will be held at the Visitor Center and Aquarium building inside John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park at MM 102.6, oceanside. Since the talks begin after normal operating hours, the park gates will be opened at 7 p.m. for lecture attendees only, until the seating capacity of the visitor center is reached.
The series is sponsored by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, the Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park,
“This year’s topics range from coral reef conservation and crocodiles to plants for migrating birds and using natural features to protect coastal communities,” said park manager Shane Zigler. “One can learn about the conservation issues impacting coastal ecosystems, as well as how mathematicians view a coral reef and an artist illustrates the mathematics of nature. We are grateful to our speakers who make it possible for us to provide high quality interpretive programs for the residents and visitors of Key Largo and the Florida Keys.”
Eric Suarez, invasive species research coordinator for the University of Florida Croc Docs Laboratory, will speak on the Burmese Python Invasion in Florida during the first talk on Jan. 15. He will give an overview on the invasion history of nonnative wildlife in Florida and then specifically dive into the various effects Burmese pythons are having on Florida’s native wildlife, as well as ongoing research and management.
Visitors should arrive on time to be assured of a seat in the auditorium, which is wheelchair accessible, and may bring a cushion for added seating comfort. Temperatures in the auditorium vary and a sweater or light jacket may be desired. Visitors are asked to accommodate those who are chemically sensitive by not wearing fragrances and other scented products.
More information is available from Elena Muratori, park services specialist, at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, in advance, at 305-676-3786. More information on Florida’s state parks is at floridastateparks.org.
