THE REAL CSI
This is no Hollywood TV show. When it comes to wildlife, the real crime scene investigators are in Boca Raton, Florida. Here, scientists at the Fish and Wildlife Forensics Laboratory analyze and provide evidence for law enforcement investigations. Working in conjunction with the city’s police department, officials test for blood, fingerprints, animal remains, objects and other substances are tested for identification purposes. To expedite field investigations, the forensics lab hopes a new ‘fish scale’ catalogue will help officers identify various species quickly and efficiently, without having to visit the Boca Raton station.

INDIE ROCKS!
What do you get when you mix nature enthusiasts, scientists, and a little bit of fun? Wildlife groups that rock! Florida’s rich habitats and abundant wildlife garner respect and admiration from a variety of organizations that focus on conserving the state’s unique animals and habitats. Groups such as the SPCA Wildlife Care Center, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida conduct scientific research, manage wildlife preserves and sanctuaries, and educate Florida’s residents on important environmental issues. Countless volunteers donate their time, energy and resources to eco-friendly institutions that are often over looked by mainstream society. Some take it a step further and incorporate their love of Florida’s natural beauty into their art. Environmental troubadour and former wildlife biologist, Dale Crider sings folk music with themes of conservation and ecological awareness. From high school students to internationally renowned scientists, members of these grassroots organizations combine fun, education, and the importance of nature in their everyday tasks.

Resources for this article have been provided by the FWC, and the SPCA Wildlife Care Center.