The Wandering Disciple

A colorful butterfly helps to pollinate a flower at the Myakka Islands Preserve in North Port.   While bees are known for their jobs as pollinators, butterflies also help nature stay bright and colorful.   (Photo: December 4, 2011)

A grasshopper clings to brush as it tries to blend in with its surroundings at the Myakka Islands Point Preserve near North Port, Florida.  This hidden gem lies along the banks of the Myakka River on the edge of Sarasota County.  The 100 acre park features hiking trails allowing you to further enjoy the preserve and the animals that live in the preserve.  (Photo: December 4, 2011)

A Zebra Longwing pollinates a flower in the Myakka Islands Preserve. The preserve is a popular spot for many species of butterflies. (Photo: December 4, 2011)

A Zebra Longwing feeds on the pollen of some wildflowers at the Myakka Islands Preserve. (Photo: December 4, 2011)

A Zebra Longwing lands on a flower at the Myakka Islands Point Preserve. The official butterfly of Florida, the Zebra Longwing can be found throughout the Southern United States, Central and South America. (Photo: December 4, 2011)

Port Charlotte, Florida: Tucked away at the dead-end of a residential street lies a hidden gem of the Sarasota County park system. Myakka Islands Point sits on the edge of the Myakka River and is home many species of plants and animals. The 100 acre parcel was purchased in 2006 by Sarasota County as part of their Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. The park takes you on a journey through several distinct ecosystems including the Myakka River, Tidal Marsh, Mangrove Swamp, Scrubby Pine Flatwoods and more. These ecosystems are critical to the environment as they provide home to hawks, wading birds and numerous other species of animals. The park boasts several hiking trails that loop the park. Both trails have a scenic overlook and benches to take a break during your hike. We visited the park on December 4, 2011 and hiked the small trail at the entrance to the parking lot. On the trail we encountered a Red-Shouldered Hawk and several different species of butterf...