Florida is known for its warm weather and sunny skies, but when temperatures drop, so do the iguanas. Meteorologists are predicting a cold spell in Florida and other parts of the Southeast through next week, which could lead to an increase in falling iguanas.
These cold-blooded creatures usually reside in treetops in the Sunshine State but tend to become unconscious when temperatures plummet. As a result, they lose their grip on branches or rooftops and can fall to the ground, potentially injuring themselves or unsuspecting passersby.
Joe Wasilewski, a biologist and iguana expert, explained that when the temperature drops below 40 degrees, iguanas are likely to fall from trees. He noted that if it’s in the 50s, they are slow, in the 40s, they are on the brink of falling, and in the 30s, they are on the ground.
Falling iguana season often surprises snowbirds and transplants who are not accustomed to this phenomenon. To prevent falling iguanas, Michael Ronquillo, a professional iguana remover, suggests trimming back trees from rooftops, wrapping trees with materials that the creatures can’t grip, or installing fake owls as a deterrent.
If you come across a passed-out iguana, Ronquillo advises calling a professional rather than attempting to move the animal yourself. He emphasized that once the iguana warms up, it will begin to move normally again. However, he cautioned that if cornered, iguanas may defend themselves by tail-whipping at speeds of up to 30 mph and using their sharp teeth and nails.
So, if you encounter a fallen iguana during the cold weather in Florida, it’s best to leave it to the experts to handle and ensure everyone’s safety. The year 2020 has been a challenging one for many people around the world, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic causing widespread disruptions to daily life. As we approach the end of the year, it’s important to reflect on the lessons we have learned and how we can move forward in a positive way.
One of the most important lessons we have learned in 2020 is the importance of resilience. The pandemic has tested our ability to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances and overcome obstacles. Many people have had to find new ways of working, learning, and connecting with others, often in the face of significant challenges. Despite these difficulties, we have shown that we are capable of rising to the occasion and finding creative solutions to problems.
Another key lesson we have learned in 2020 is the importance of community and connection. The pandemic has forced us to physically distance ourselves from others, but it has also highlighted the importance of staying connected through other means. Whether it’s through virtual gatherings, phone calls, or acts of kindness, we have found ways to support and uplift each other during this difficult time. This sense of community has helped to strengthen our bonds and remind us of the importance of coming together in times of crisis.
2020 has also taught us the value of gratitude and appreciation. The pandemic has made us more aware of the things we may have taken for granted in the past, such as our health, our loved ones, and the simple pleasures of life. By focusing on what we do have rather than what we don’t, we can cultivate a sense of gratitude that can help us navigate difficult times with a more positive outlook.
As we look ahead to 2021, it’s important to carry these lessons forward and continue to grow and evolve in the face of challenges. By cultivating resilience, fostering connections, and practicing gratitude, we can build a stronger, more united community that is better equipped to handle whatever the future may bring. Let’s take the lessons of 2020 and use them to create a brighter and more hopeful future for all. A new study has revealed that regular exercise may not only improve physical health but also protect against mental decline in older adults. The findings, published in the journal Aging, suggest that staying active throughout life can have significant benefits for brain health and cognitive function.
The study, conducted by a team of researchers from the University of California, followed a group of over 1,500 adults aged 65 and older for a period of 10 years. Participants were asked to report their levels of physical activity, such as walking, jogging, swimming, or playing sports, and underwent regular cognitive assessments to measure memory, attention, and language skills.
The results showed that older adults who engaged in regular physical activity had a lower risk of developing cognitive impairment compared to those who were sedentary. In fact, the researchers found that individuals who exercised at least three times a week were 38% less likely to experience cognitive decline over the course of the study.
Lead researcher Dr. Sarah Johnson commented on the findings, stating that “Our study provides further evidence that staying active as we age can have a profound impact on brain health. Regular exercise not only keeps our bodies fit and healthy but also helps to maintain cognitive function and protect against age-related cognitive decline.”
The study also highlighted the importance of starting an exercise routine early in life, as the benefits of physical activity on brain health appear to be cumulative. Dr. Johnson noted that “The earlier we start exercising and maintain a consistent routine, the greater the protective effects on cognitive function. It’s never too late to start, but the sooner we begin, the better.”
These findings add to a growing body of research that supports the link between physical activity and brain health. Previous studies have shown that exercise can improve cognitive function, reduce the risk of dementia, and even enhance memory and learning abilities in older adults.
In conclusion, the new study provides further evidence of the numerous benefits of regular exercise on brain health and cognitive function in older adults. By staying active throughout life, individuals can not only improve their physical health but also protect against mental decline and maintain cognitive function as they age. So, lace up those running shoes or grab a pair of dumbbells – your brain will thank you for it!
