Animals

Florida wildlife agency expected to shoot down commercialized turtle breeding proposal

The U.S. Association of Reptile Keepers of Florida wants the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to approve captive breeding of Diamondback terrapins. The move would combat declining populations of the species of turtle due to high demand as both low-maintenance pets and poachable commodities. The program will be discussed at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission meeting Wednesday, but FWC’s staff report, slated to be presented during discussion, recommends maintaining current rules.

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Pit bull rescue works to rehome dogs in crowded shelters

Plenty of Pit Bulls, a Gainesville nonprofit organization that specializes in placing at-risk shelter dogs in foster care, is looking for volunteers to provide homes for its rescued dogs. The group is hosting a fundraising event Oct. 2 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at First Magnitude Brewing Co., located at 1220 SE Veitch St. All proceeds go toward the dogs’ medical care and other needs.

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Wild Spaces and Public Places campaign kicks off

Wild Spaces and Public Places returns to the ballot in November. Alachua County voters get to decide if the sales tax should increase by another half-cent. At the campaign kickoff, held at Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Center, supporters stressed the funding is essential. Wild Spaces and Public Places currently funds …

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