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The idea for a series came to me while scroll- ing through my alphabetized photo albums on my Mac. I plan to proceed in an orderly manner, but, most likely, it will prove an "alphabet soup" undertaking. Some let- ters will have multiple entries. How could I choose between sandhill cranes and scrub jays? One thing is certain: Anything written about Florida begins with alligators. People come here just to see them. At Myakka River State Park, alligators are guar- anteed. They loll on a sunny bank or glide by gawkers who try to estimate their size. Typically, females are around 8 feet long, males 11 feet long. They are the "brightest in the constellation of stars," though shore- birds try to steal the scene. In the dry season at Lower Lake, these reptiles gather in profu- sion to the delight of hikers and kayakers. Are 'gators on the park payroll? Alligator mississippiensis of the Crocodilian order has been around for 200 million years. It thrives in warm places but has survived numerous changes in climate — from lush A NATURE LOVER LAUNCHES HER OWN ALPHABETIZED SERIES ON FLORIDA WILDLIFE Story and Photos By Fran Palmeri Contributing Writer Alligators prove the star attractions at Myakka River State Park. Sarasota News Leader March 28, 2014 Page 95