Alligator vs Crocodile – What is the Difference?

Alligators and Crocodiles

Florida and the Alligators – or are they Crocodiles?

Have you ever asked yourself what is the difference between alligators and crocodiles? Don’t they look alike? Well, they may look similar, but there are some differences.

Read more about those fascinating reptiles you can meet in the wild here:

 

Villa Happy Gator Venice Florida – Talking about Eco-Friendliness

Villa Happy Gator Venice

We love Florida and its wonderful nature – that’s why at Villa Happy Gator we want to do our utmost to ensure that our precious nature is as little affected as possible by our house and its care.

Our technical equipment is up to date and regularly maintained by specialist companies. Thus, the air conditioning works very economical and effective while maintaining high comfort. Our pool is a saltwater pool and therefore usually comes without any chlorine addition. The result is crystal clear water, which is good to the eyes and skin with a pleasant smell.

Pest Control is indispensable in the warm humid climate of Florida. But there are gentle methods that are good for the environment and for humans. We chose a system that even carries the USDA Organic label: “The Sentinel” – small, green containers that are placed around the house to form a protective barrier. Only in very rare situations, something stronger has to be used.

Our lawn is free from regular pesticide spraying. The lively vegetation attracts many colorful birds that we have here in South Venice.

Garden, walk- and driveways are kept clean by hand. In cooperation with our gardener we are in the process of testing an ecological weed killer to reduce the effort a bit.

Our cleaning team also is very sensitive. Vinegar and soda are common companions when cleaning.

Sarasota County is top in recycling. Paper and plastic are collected separately. Our guests will find sufficient containers as well as detailed instructions for the correct sorting.

The city of Venice and Sarasota County have recently adopted ambitious plans to reduce their impact on the environment, which we support.

In addition, we examine promising ecological projects in the area, whether we decide to sponsor them. We are always looking for new ideas to make Villa Happy Gator even greener. We thank our guests that have been very supportive and appreciate our efforts.

Caspersen Beach - Villa Happy Gator

Villa Happy Gator

Sentinel

Villa Happy Gator

Vinegar

Oscar Scherer’s 29th Annual Earth Day – April 21 – Oscar Scherer Statepark Osprey FL

Oscar Scherer State Park

Celebrate Earth Day in the great outdoors of Oscar Scherer State Park in Osprey.

Enjoy a day full of planned, fun family-oriented activities like live music, earth friendly food vendors, tram tours and kayaking. There will be a photo contest & exhibit and some guided hikes.

Oscar Scherer’s 29th Annual Earth Day will be Sat. April 21st. Free Event 10:00 – 4:00. Check back on their website for more information and beginning April 1st see 22 days with 22 ways to help the environment with a random winner each day and a top winner announced at the festival.

The park is over 1,380 acres in size, with 15 miles of nature walks and a 3 acre fresh-water lake, Lake Osprey, where you can rent canoes and kayaks as well. And there’s a playground for the kids.

Make sure to get a list of the day’s schedule and activities when you stop at the ranger booth at the entrance.

Oscar Scherer State Park
1843 S Tamiami Trail
Osprey FL 34229
941.483.5956

The Best Hiking Trails around Venice: Jelks Preserve

Jelks Preserve Venice

This 614 acre preserve is bordering the wild and scenic Myakka River. While exploring the network of trails, you can see diverse natural communities including hammocks, pine flatwoods and seasonal wetlands and can observe gopher tortoises, swallowtail butterflies, songbirds and wildflowers.

Some trails meander through canopied hammocks, others are open and sunny. At three different locations there is a connection to the river. More than 8 miles of trails are provided and marked.

This beautiful nature preserve is only minutes away from our Villa Happy Gator on 2300 N River Road, Venice, FL 34292.

 

Alligator Creek Trail in Venice – perfect for an afternoon walk

Trail on Alligator Creek Venice

This beautiful trail starting at Woodmere Park in Venice is a hidden gem. Enjoy the silence and solitude when walking along the creek surrounded by lush vegetation. I love the afternoon hours when the trail itself is getting shady and the colors intense.

 

Created by Birgit