Ferrell Outdoors

25/12/2024

Wishing you the happiest of the holidays!

24/12/2024

We visited the island of Tenerife, Spain in the Canary Islands. On the island is the Tiede National Park. The park is home of quiet volcanoes and lava flows. The last eruption was 1,000 years ago. Scenes of “Lord of the Rings” with Froto were filmed here. A different kind of beauty and breathtaking views.

23/12/2024

We had the unique opportunity to visit the island of Cape Verde off the coast of west Africa. The island is very dry. The east side of the island has white sand beaches. The west side has volcanic black beaches. The east side has been exposed to sand blowing off the Sahara Desert creating the white beaches. The volcanoes are no longer active but have left their mark. Fishing is the mainstay. Salt water goes through the process of desalination for residents to drink.

07/12/2024

Winter in Florida is filled with surprises. Wild flowers in bloom is a special surprise as you turn a corner on a trail. Which wildflowers are these?

28/11/2024

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving. Take friends and loved ones on walk in nature after enjoying your meal!

26/11/2024

Charles H. Lee Sabal Point Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Longwood, Florida, is a 12-acre protected area known for its beautiful natural habitats and native wildlife. Managed by the Seminole Audubon Society, this sanctuary offers an accessible escape into nature with walking trails and scenic views. The sanctuary is primarily a mix of oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, and wetland areas, providing a diverse environment that supports various bird species, small mammals, reptiles, and native flora.

23/11/2024

Nature quiz Friday.
Which Florida keystone species provides shelter for over 350 other species in their burrow?

21/11/2024

Mountain Bike in Florida…Really?
Absolutely! Mountains are optional for a mountain or gravel trail. The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) uses a Trail Difficulty Rating System to assess the difficulty of bicycle trails. In Florida, 286 bicycle mountain-gravel trails have received IMBA ratings. The Santos mountain biking park in Ocala, Florida, is the largest and most well-known in the region. Our book, "Trail and Mountain Biking Adventures in Central Florida," provides guidance on the locations and difficulty levels of 20 mountain and gravel biking trails.

Roger Fulton has been writing regional trail guides for hiking, biking and other outdoor activities for many years. In his newest book, Trail and Mountain Biking Trails in Central Florida, he brings area bicyclists the latest information about the many off-road and mountain biking trails. Roger h...

18/11/2024

Nature's cleanup crew consists of bugs, birds, and animals. Water is an essential component for drinking and bathing for birds and animals. We found this black vulture taking a drink at Alexander Springs Recreation Area located in Altoona, FL.

15/11/2024

The Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) is an adult education program developed by the University of Florida and provided by participating organizations. FMNP training will benefit anyone interested in learning more about Florida’s environment, seeking educational contact hours, or wishing to increase their knowledge in education programs as volunteers, employees, ecotourism guides, and others.
For more information, check with your local UF extension office and visit https://masternaturalist.ifas.ufl.edu/become-a-master-naturalist/master-naturalist-courses/

13/11/2024

What is Outdoor Education? Nature-focused education prioritizes learning through direct experiences in natural settings, nurturing a profound connection with the environment. It promotes hands-on activities, environmental responsibility, and ecological understanding, which enhance critical thinking and problem-solving abilities while encouraging sustainable practices and a passion for the outdoors. Outdoor education can also take place in a classroom setting. We had the chance to provide children with an indoor field trip where we explained an ecosystem, followed by a project where they created a mini ecosystem. Messenger us for Florida-based nature education.

12/11/2024

Moss Park, Orlando, FL Orange County

11/11/2024

Thank you for your service.

08/11/2024

Today is National Cappuccino Day. Celebrate with your favorite mug. Jack and I continue to move forward, hike and bicycle Florida's wonderful trails, and kayak our favorite lakes. Enjoy your day!

07/11/2024

Golf Course nature viewing offers beautiful views and a variety of wildlife. We had the opportunity to ride a golf cart through a golf course in New Smyrna Beach, FL, and the birdlife was amazing. This anhinga was just off the cart path, catching the last rays of the day to dry its wings.

04/11/2024

Bicycling long distances creates unique ways to carry your gear. Paneers (the orange and blue bags in this picture) hold a lot. This bicycle is packed with several days of clothes, a small tent, a sleeping bag, various snacks, a tire pump, and water. Balancing the weight in each bag helps maintain balance. Ask your local bicycle shop what they offer if you consider a bicycling vacation. We also use our paneers to hold groceries!