Uncategorized - Flamingo Gardens

Volunteer Spotlight: Gary Shapiro

We are thrilled to recognize Gary Shapiro as our Volunteer of the Month for May!

Gary is a kind, friendly, and welcoming volunteer whom many of you have likely seen at the Tram over the past several months. He genuinely enjoys volunteering and takes great pride in assisting our guests while helping ensure the area meets our high standards of cleanliness and presentation.

With more than 150 volunteer hours already contributed, Gary continues to demonstrate remarkable dedication, enthusiasm, and a true passion for service. His positive attitude and willingness to help make a lasting impact on both our guests and fellow volunteers.

We are incredibly grateful to have a volunteer like Gary, whose commitment and care help make Flamingo Gardens such a special place. Thank you, Gary, for all that you do and for being an important part of the exciting future ahead at Flamingo Gardens!

Volunteer Spotlight: Kathy Stafford

Volunteer of the Month is Kathy Stafford. Kathy has been operating a such a high level for us in this department. She is always major help in our events department when we have exhibits in out Gallery as a docent. She also spent time as Mrs. Claus for us during Winter Wonderland and regularly assists our Guest Services team. Kathy also takes a liking to other volunteers and encourages and motivates them in their different departments as well. She always vocal and her hospitality is greatly appreciated. It has been a pleasure working alongside side her.

Flamingo Gardens Welcomes Rescued Panther “Sabal”

Flamingo Gardens welcomes to its Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary, Sabal, a rescued puma kitten. Your gift, in Sabal’s honor, helps support her specialized care, as well as the care of all our injured and non-releasable animals.

Flamingo Gardens has welcomed a new resident to its Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary, Sabal, a rescued 22-week-old puma kitten.

The puma, also known as a panther, cougar, or mountain lion, depending on geographic location, was transferred to Flamingo Gardens from a facility in Georgia that was unable to provide for her long-term care. Sabal now has a permanent home at Flamingo Gardens, where she will receive specialized care in Flamingo Gardens’ naturalistic habitat designed to support her health and development. As a non-releasable panther, Sabal will serve as an ambassador for her species, helping educate the public about the challenges facing wild pumas, including habitat loss and declining populations.

Sabal is a western cougar (puma concolor) and not a true Florida panther subspecies (puma concolor corgi), but her presence at Flamingo Gardens provides an important opportunity for visitors to learn about one of Florida’s most iconic and endangered animals and the threats they face in the wild.

Beginning this weekend, January 17, 2026, Sabal will be available for public viewing from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. daily as she completes her acclimation period. Viewing time may be subject to weather conditions and the panther’s cooperation. Updates will be shared through Flamingo Gardens’ website and social media channels.

About Flamingo Gardens
Founded in 1927, Flamingo Gardens is a 60-acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary in Davie, Florida, dedicated to conservation, education, and the preservation of Florida’s native wildlife and natural habitats.

Flamingo Gardens Mourns the Passing of Josh the Black Bear

The beloved wildlife ambassador will be remembered for a lifetime of gentle connection.

Flamingo Gardens is heartbroken to share the passing of Josh, our beloved American black bear, who died peacefully of old age on Friday, January 9, 2026. Josh would have turned 27 years old on January 23—a remarkable milestone for a black bear in human care and a testament to the extraordinary life he lived surrounded by love, respect, and expert care.

“Josh was more than an animal in our care—he was family,” said Flamingo Gardens Sr. Director of Wildlife, Michael Ruggieri. “He helped teach generations of visitors that wildlife deserves compassion, protection, and respect. His long life reflects the dedication of his caregivers and the incredible support of our community.”

Josh’s story was one of resilience, kindness, and connection. Bottle-fed as a cub, Josh spent his early years as an ambassador animal at another facility in Davie, FL, where he made appearances at schools, birthday parties, and community events. His calm, gentle demeanor made him a natural ambassador, and he quickly became beloved by everyone he met.

When that facility lost its state permit, Josh—then 12 years old—was placed at Animal Adventures in Okeechobee while a permanent home was sought. Too accustomed to people to ever be safely released into the wild, Josh needed a place where he could live out his life with dignity, space, and enrichment. That home became Flamingo Gardens.

In 2013, after a community-supported effort, Josh arrived at Flamingo Gardens, where he spent the next chapter of his life in a spacious new naturalistic habitat built specifically for him, with trees, a rock cave, enrichment toys, and a pond-like pool. Josh arrived overweight and with acute osteoarthritis, which was treated successfully, though the condition naturally progressed as he aged. Despite this, he enjoyed his habitat, pool, and enrichment, demonstrating the resilience and spirit that endeared him to everyone.

For nearly 13 years, Josh was one of Flamingo Gardens’ most treasured residents, known by guests and caregivers alike for his affectionate nature and love of his pool, favorite treats, and familiar voices.

Josh’s legacy lives on through the Bear Habitat built in his honor, which will continue to provide a home for rescued bears in need. Flamingo Gardens thanks the community whose generosity made Josh’s journey possible and invites all who loved him to visit his habitat and celebrate his extraordinary life.

“I first met Josh when he was only a few months old, and he was never an ordinary bear,” recalls Laura Wyatt, Curator of Wildlife, Flamingo Gardens. “From watching him grow to helping give him a forever home at Flamingo Gardens, it has been the honor of my life to know him. Josh was deeply loved by his community and everyone he met—his heart was as big as he was. He wasn’t just a bear, he was Josh, and he changed lives by connecting people to wildlife.”

Eco-Teers in Action: Protecting Our Waterways and Pollinators – June 2025 Highlights

June was a powerful month for Flamingo Gardens’ Eco-Teers, as volunteers came together to fight pollution and restore critical native habitats across South Florida. Here’s a look at the incredible work they accomplished:

June 14th, 2025 – Tackling Pollution at Secret Woods
On a sweltering Saturday morning, a determined group of Eco-Teers laced up their boots and got to work at Secret Woods Nature Center, removing five massive 100-gallon bags of waste from the park’s fragile natural areas.

This wasn’t just about cleaning up litter—it was about taking a stand against a growing environmental crisis. In recent years, South Florida has faced devastating sewage spills, including an alarming 126-million-gallon dump into Fort Lauderdale’s waterways in a single event. These pollutants suffocate marine life, fuel harmful algal blooms, and damage coral reef systems already weakened by rising temperatures and acidification.

By clearing debris from natural areas before it reaches the water, Eco-Teers help protect the health of our wetlands, rivers, and ocean ecosystems. Their efforts play a small but mighty role in turning the tide on water pollution—and in protecting the wildlife and communities who rely on clean, safe water.

June 21st, 2025 – Milkweed Magic at Flamingo Gardens
Just one week later, the Eco-Teers gathered again—this time at the Flamingo Gardens Nursery for a special hands-on workshop all about milkweed, the lifeline of the monarch butterfly.

Participants discovered the vital role these native plants play in Florida’s ecosystem. Monarch butterflies can only lay eggs on milkweed, and their caterpillars rely on it as their sole food source. With monarch populations having dropped by more than 80% in recent decades, habitat restoration is more important than ever.

Through interactive lessons and propagation demonstrations, volunteers learned how to grow and care for milkweed at home. These newly acquired skills empower them to become habitat heroes—helping to build pollinator corridors across neighborhoods and public spaces that support not only monarchs but also bees, wasps, and other beneficial insects.

DID YOU KNOW?
Healthy pollinator populations are essential for over 75% of flowering plants and more than one-third of global food crops. Supporting species like the monarch butterfly isn’t just beautiful—it’s essential.

Why It Matters
Eco-Teer events like these highlight how small, local actions can have far-reaching ecological impact. From removing pollution that chokes marine life to restoring native plants that keep pollinator networks alive, every volunteer hour contributes to a more resilient environment.

Ready to get involved?

Join the movement to restore, protect, and rewild South Florida’s natural spaces.

Email EcoTeer Coordinator Ashley Vieira at [email protected] to sign up or learn more.

Hoffman’s Chocolates Winter Wonderland and Flamingo Gardens’ Garden of Lights Unite to Spark Magic for the 2025 Holiday Season

Set Across 10 Acres of Breathtaking Botanical Gardens in Davie, FL

Hoffman’s Chocolates Winter Wonderland at Flamingo Gardens Presented by Amazon
November 22 – December 30, 2025

Fort Lauderdale, FL (June 25, 2025) — In celebration of its 50th Anniversary, Hoffman’s Chocolates is thrilled to announce that it is bringing back its beloved Winter Wonderland to a spectacular new location: the enchanting Flamingo Gardens in Davie, Florida (3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330). Flamingo Gardens is known for its long-running annual Garden of Lights set across 10 acres of breathtaking Botanical Gardens. Now Hoffman’s Chocolate’s Winter Wonderland at Flamingo Gardens Presented by Amazon is sure to be bigger, brighter, and spread more holiday cheer than ever. The event will take place Saturday, November 22 through Saturday, December 30, 2025, nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. (closed November 27, December 24 & 25).

In a brand-new holiday collaboration, three notable names—Hoffman’s Chocolates, Flamingo Gardens, and Amazon—are joining forces to present a 36-night celebration like no other. This festive partnership will transform Flamingo Gardens’ 10-acre Arboretum of lush botanical gardens and wildlife sanctuary into a breathtaking wonderland of lights, joy, and holiday cheer, creating an unforgettable experience for families and visitors of all ages. In addition, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital is joining the celebration as the presenting sponsor of Santa’s Village in the gardens. Throughout the five-plus weeks, guests will be immersed in the spirit of the holiday season with:

Thousands of colorful and twinkling lights, and luminous displays throughout the gardens
A 40-foot Christmas tree sparkling with festive brilliance

Free photos with Santa in Santa’s Village presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital – Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights November 28 – December 21, and December 22 & 23.
A mouthwatering experience at Hoffman’s Chocolates Pop-up Shop and The Sweet Ride ice cream truck, plus chocolate decorating classes for the whole family
Toasty s’mores and seasonal bites from Flamingo Gardens’ Flamingo Pond Café
Nightly live musical performances and so much more!!!

“Hoffman’s Chocolates Winter Wonderland has been a beloved holiday tradition for decades, and this year, we’re making it more magical than ever,” said Lois Marino, Executive Director, BBX Capital Foundation, and Director of Community Engagement, BBX Capital, Inc., parent company of Hoffman’s Chocolates. “We outgrew our original space—but now, thanks to our amazing partnership with Flamingo Gardens and Amazon, we’re turning up the holiday cheer in a big way! Get ready for dazzling lights, heartwarming moments, and unforgettable memories the whole family will treasure for a lifetime!”

Established in 1927, Flamingo Gardens is one of the oldest botanical gardens and attractions in South Florida, and the premier Everglades Learning Center and South Florida Wildlife and Botanical Sanctuary. A registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Flamingo Gardens is dedicated to depicting, preserving, and educating the public about the natural and cultural heritage of South Florida and the Everglades through its immersive botanical gardens and wildlife sanctuary.

“We’re excited to host Hoffman’s Chocolates Winter Wonderland at Flamingo Gardens and collaborate with both Hoffman’s Chocolates and Amazon for this spectacular holiday experience,” said Keith Clark, CEO of Flamingo Gardens. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision to expand our holiday lights in a family-friendly way and will allow us to spread even more joy this year!”

Proceeds from the event will support Flamingo Gardens’ educational and conservation mission, with a portion also benefiting the BBX Capital Foundation, which invests in programs focused on the arts, education and human services throughout South Florida.

“Amazon is proud to support the return of this iconic South Florida tradition,” said Angie Santabanez, Head of Community Engagement at Amazon. “We believe in partnering with local community traditions and creating joyful moments for families, and Hoffman’s Chocolates Winter Wonderland at Flamingo Gardens offers exactly that—holiday magic, community connection, and meaningful support for a great cause.”

For event updates and ticketing information, please visit www.FlamingoGardens.org.

Event Details:

Saturday, November 22 through Saturday, December 30, 2025
5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. nightly (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve & Christmas Day; last entry at 8:30 p.m.)
Santa: November 28, 29, 30, December 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, & 23, 2025

Tickets:

Admission: Adults $24 | Children (ages 3–11) $17 | Ages 2 & under free
Flamingo Gardens Members receive free admission Wednesday, November 26; Sunday, December 7; and Friday, December 12 plus 50% off any additional visits

Tickets are for Winter Wonderland nighttime activities only and do not include any daytime animal exhibits or encounters, Wray Home Museum, or Tram Tours.

For event updates and ticket purchases, please visit www.FlamingoGardens.org.

ABOUT HOFFMAN’S CHOCOLATES

Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Hoffman’s Chocolates is a manufacturer of gourmet chocolates, with five retail locations throughout South Florida. The company is known for its elaborate December holiday displays and beloved products such as chocolate-covered pretzels and gift baskets. Its product line features more than 70 varieties of confections, all handcrafted using time-honored candy-making traditions. Hoffman’s Chocolates is a subsidiary of BBX Sweet Holdings, LLC, part of the BBX Capital Corporation family of companies. Please visit www.Hoffmans.com for more information.

ABOUT FLAMINGO GARDENS

Flamingo Gardens is a 60-acre non-profit botanical garden and Everglades wildlife sanctuary located in Davie, Florida. Home to over 3,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants and one of the largest collections of Florida native wildlife, Flamingo Gardens provides an immersive experience for guests of all ages. Its Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary houses hundreds of rescued animals including alligators, bobcats, otters, eagles, and, of course, flamingos. Learn more at www.flamingogardens.org or call 954-473-2955.

ABOUT AMAZON

Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Amazon strives to be Earth’s Most Customer-Centric Company, Earth’s Best Employer, and Earth’s Safest Place to Work. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Career Choice, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, Alexa, Just Walk Out technology, Amazon Studios, and The Climate Pledge are some of the things pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews.

ABOUT BBX CAPITAL FOUNDATION

The BBX Capital Foundation was created in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) corporate foundation. Since then, the Foundation has awarded more than $20 million in contributions and in-kind services to charitable organizations throughout Florida. The BBX Capital Foundation focuses on three key areas: the arts, education, and human services. It considers requests for specific projects, as well as for general programs. For more information, visit, https://bbxcapital.com/community-impact.

ABOUT JOE DIMAGGIO CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital is one of the nation’s leading pediatric hospitals, offering a comprehensive scope of healthcare services and programs in a caring, compassionate setting designed specifically for children. The level one pediatric trauma center combines advanced technology, the expertise of some of the region’s most diverse, board-certified specialists, and a patient and family-centered focus to heal the body, mind, and spirit. Part of Memorial Healthcare System, the pediatric hospital in Hollywood, Florida, recently doubled in size, adding four floors, including a comprehensive cardiac care floor, an intraoperative MRI, an inpatient rehabilitation gym, family and staff support areas, and the Teammates for Kids Child Life Zone, among other offerings. To learn more, visit jdch.com and connect with @jdchospital on Facebook, Twitter X, YouTube and Instagram.

Celebrate 10 Years of Family Fun & Summer With The South Florida Adventure Pass

Four Broward Attractions for One Low Price Equals Unlimited Fun

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (April 30th, 2025) – Celebrate 10 years of family fun and summer savings with the South Florida Adventure Pass! Passholders can enjoy unlimited
admission to Butterfly World, Flamingo Gardens, Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) and Sawgrass Recreation Park from May 15 – September 30, 2025.

Explore aviaries filled with 20,000 exotic butterflies and tropical birds at Butterfly World; see live animals, from alligators to bobcats, at Flamingo Gardens; take an airboat ride at Sawgrass Recreation Park; and experience Expedition: Dinosaurs – Rise of the Mammals, the newest traveling exhibit to roar into the Museum of Discovery and Science…all for one low price!

The South Florida Adventure Pass will be available for purchase at each of the
participating locations beginning on May 15 and will be valid for admission to each of the attractions until September 30, 2025. Butterfly World, Flamingo Gardens, MODS and Sawgrass Recreation Park will also have the passes for sale online at their respective websites.

At $60 plus tax, per adult ages 13+ and $50 plus tax, per child (ages 3-12), this pass grants unlimited admission to each attraction. Existing annual passholders/members at participating attractions can upgrade to the South Florida Adventure Pass for $50 plus tax, per adult, and $40 plus tax, per child.

For more information on the South Florida Adventure Pass, please visit southfloridaadventurepass.com.

About Butterfly World
Experience Butterfly World, where Discovery and Wonder take Flight at the World’s Largest Butterfly and Bird Park! It features “open air” aviaries with a breath-taking
display of 20,000 exotic butterflies and tropical birds from all around the world. Explore and interact with rare and delicate butterflies in the South Florida Tropical Rain Forest. Discover metamorphosis in our Research Facility where you will see all stages of the butterfly life cycle in a display that changes daily. Other highlights include Vine Maze, Butterfly Museum and Insectarium, and more! This is the perfect adventure for the whole family! Tradewinds Park weekend/holiday gate fee may be in effect. Located at 3600 W. Sample Road, Coconut Creek, FL 33073. For more information, please visit butterflyworld.com or call 954.977.4400.

About Flamingo Gardens
Feed a flamingo at this botanical garden & wildlife sanctuary! Established in 1927, Flamingo Gardens is one of the oldest botanical gardens in South Florida. The 60-acre non-profit botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary contains over 3000 tropical and sub-tropical species of plants and trees including 22 of the largest trees of their species. Its Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the largest collection of rescued Florida native wildlife in the state, including alligators, bobcats, otters, eagles, a black bear and flamingos. Visit the
historic Wray Home Museum and take a narrated tram tour through native jungle growth and wetlands. Located at 3750 S. Flamingo Road, Davie, FL 33330. For more information, please visit flamingogardens.org or call 954.473.2955.

About Museum of Discovery and Science
Founded in 1976 as the Discovery Center, today the Museum of Discovery and Science
(MODS) is at the forefront of science education, innovation and exploration. MODS connects people to inspiring science, providing STEM education and cultural experiences for 450,000+ visitors annually in the 150,000 sq. ft. facility. MODS is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that has been accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) for three decades. MODS has added to that distinction by being named Broward’s Hub for Resilience Education by the Board of the Community Foundation of Broward, selected by the LEGO Foundation as one of only 21 museums nationwide to join the Playful Learning Museum Network and awarded the prestigious 2023 IMLS National Medal for Museum Service.

The Museum welcomes visitors from all walks of life. The Museum hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. MODS is located downtown at 401 SW Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information about the Museum, please visit mods.org or call 954.467.MODS (6637).

Like us or follow us on social media:
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About Sawgrass Recreation Park
Discover the Florida Everglades on a thrilling 40-minute airboat adventure! Glide over the sawgrass and cattails and let your spirit soar as you hear the stories of this unique environment. In our exhibit areas meet our adopted and rescued reptiles and even pet a baby alligator! Open 7 days reservations required at this time, try The Gator Grill offering unique flavors of Florida! Please call to make reservations for your visit. 1006 N. Highway 27, Weston, FL 33327. For more information, please visit evergladestours.com or call 954.389.0202.

Volunteer Spotlight: Tal Leshem

Out Volunteer of the Month is Tal Leshem. Tal is an incredible volunteer who has primarily volunteered with our Eco-teers.

Tal is a regular at Eco-teer events, has an exemplary attitude, and takes so much initiative. Whether it’s helping with a booth, doing a clean up, or really any task at all Tal has been a devoted member of the Eco-teers.

Consistent involvement from valued Eco-teers has been integral in Flamingo Gardens making our mark in the community in a larger way and Tal has been a huge part of that. We’ve been made better by having Tal as a part of our team.

2025 Photo Contest Winners Are In!

The results are in! Thank you to all who participated in our 2025 photo contest. Congratulations!

5 – Judges Recognition Awards – Each receiving $25 (Photographers in Alphabetical Order)

In the Spotlight by Cecelia Anzalone

Magnificent by Patricia Diaz

Peeking Out by Dr. Carol Marinas

Splish Splash by Debra Martins

Sway by Ronni Puglisi

3rd Place winner of $50

Regal by Patricia Diaz

2^nd Place winner of $75

Judera Bug Sunbathing Over a Leaf by Claudia Masella

1^st Place winner of $100

Morning Breakfast by Debra Martins

Best Digitally Enhanced Photo winner of $100

Illuminated Wood Stork by Brittany Mason

People’s Choice Award Winner of $100

Sacred Light by Michael Giacobbe

Best in Show Overall – Winner of $150

(Judge really felt this photo embodied the essence of the theme end the competition)

Phantom by Steve Pressman

Discover Nighttime Wonders at Flamingo Gardens’ Moth Bioblitz!

Ever wonder what flutters through the night at Flamingo Gardens? Did you know that moths predate butterflies? That they can remember their caterpillar days? Or that they can hear bat echolocation and fly erratically to avoid becoming a midnight snack?

Moths play a crucial role in ecosystems—not just as nighttime pollinators but also as caterpillars that break down organic matter, enriching the soil. They serve as a vital food source for countless insects, animals, and birds. In fact, large moth populations are a key indicator of a thriving ecosystem.

Yet, there’s still so much to learn about these elusive creatures of the night.

That’s why this April 26, 2025, Flamingo Gardens is hosting a Moth Bioblitz, a rare opportunity to explore our vast 60-acre gardens after dark! Light trap stations will be set up throughout the park, allowing participants to move from station to station and observe different moth species up close. Entomologists will be on hand to help identify moths and answer your questions, while both citizen and research scientists will guide you in using iNaturalist to document your findings.

Our goal is to photograph as many moths as possible and enter them into iNaturalist, where the data will be shared with researchers around the world. This event serves as our spring count, with a follow-up summer count coming in July.

By participating, you’ll not only experience the magic of Flamingo Gardens at night but also become a citizen scientist, gaining a newfound appreciation for these fascinating nighttime pollinators.
Join us and help shine a light on the wonders of the night! Earth Day 2025 Moth BioBlitz
Saturday Night, April 26, 2025
7:30pm – 10:30pm for Public Observers Flamingo Gardens
3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL

Admission:
• $15 for Public Observer Entrance fee for all ages.
• Preorder a Giant Moth for release for $15 additional! (Order by 5pm on April 4)
More information here!

Reservation Number

Open Everyday*