Salmon fishing in glimmering freshwater rivers and cold waters of the deep blue is nature's challenge that will leave you hooked! Picturesque locations, trophy catches, and a connection to nature… Read More
By Larissa Smith 6 months ago
Larissa Smith
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Larissa Smith is a writer for A-Z Animals with years of experience in plant care and wildlife. After years spent in the South African bush while studying Nature Conservation, she found her way to writing about animals and plants in her work. She hopes to inspire others to appreciate and care for the precious world around them.
Larissa lives in Florida with her two sons, a miniature golden retriever named Pupples, and a colorful succulent garden. In her spare time, she is tending to her garden, adventuring with her kids, and hosting “Real Housewives” watch parties with her friends.
Tea tree oil is an age-old natural topical remedy to treat bug bites, minor cuts, nail fungus, and acne. Along with these medicinal uses, tea tree oil has a beautiful… Read More
By Larissa Smith 6 months ago
Vinegar is a solution that has been around for more than three millennia! This sour solution can be traced back as far as 3000 B.C.E, all the way back to the… Read More
By Larissa Smith 6 months ago
Does peppermint keep the bugs away? Peppermint is a multifaceted herb. From using it in the kitchen to drinking it as tea, using soothing lip balm and various topical creams,… Read More
By Larissa Smith 6 months ago
Unfortunately, stories of pit bulls being “fighting dogs” lead to misconceptions about their nature and temperament. They make great companions when properly trained and socialized and are very loving and… Read More
By Larissa Smith 8 months ago
As a cat parent, you may know your feline friend is susceptible to various bacterial infections. These infections, however, should not be left untreated and may need to be prescribed… Read More
By Larissa Smith 9 months ago
Bearded dragons are curious reptiles with a unique look. Their friendly demeanor, spiky scales, and large round eyes make them an appealing pet to people of all ages. However, before… Read More
By Larissa Smith 10 months ago
Despite their bad reputation, pit bull breeds are loving companions to many families in the United States. In fact, these dogs have consistently achieved excellent temperament scores and thrive as… Read More
By Larissa Smith 10 months ago
When you think about animals that call the Sahara desert their home, your first thought might be reptiles. They can survive harsh conditions and little water. But a variety of… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
South Dakota is not only famous for Mount Rushmore, but it also has the best deer hunting in the U.S. There are ample mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and white-tailed deer… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Giant sequoia vs. ponderosa pine tree! These majestic, tall-standing giants are famous in North America for their height and beauty. However, there are key differences between the two. They have… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Are you wondering what the common complaints about bulldogs are? Bulldogs are a unique and endearing dog breed. Dog lovers around the world love their wrinkled faces, short, stocky build,… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Very few things in life compare to the feeling of the cool, refreshing lake water of Lake St. Clair flowing over your body as the summer heat melts away. But… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Birds have excellent vision, and bright and beautiful colors will attract different species. Add colors known to attract birds to your yard with colorful flowers, bird feeders, yard furniture, or… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
How can you instantly get rid of raccoons from your yard? Raccoons are often seen running between neighborhoods across the U.S. They are more common in urbanized areas in suburbs… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Have you ever driven through Pennsylvania and seen some of the most lush and magnificent trees stretching to the sky, creating an enchanting scene? Pennsylvania is home to some of… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Basil is a popular cooking herb that belongs to the genus Ocimum in the Lamiaceae family. It has a distinctive slight anise and cloves aroma. This delicious herb has a flavor… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
What would we do without being surrounded by the beauty of flowers in Maine? Just because Maine has harsh winters does not mean that we should not still experience the… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
The world's largest electric eel vs. a blue whale? If you're a fan of comparing epic battles between some of your favorite aquatic animals, then this post is for you.… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
There are two species of gorillas. These include the Western gorilla (Gorilla gorilla), with subspecies Western lowland gorilla and Cross River gorilla, and the Eastern gorilla (Gorilla beringei), with subspecies… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
The U.S. is diverse and beautiful, with many unique landscapes and ecosystems. Therefore, it has some of the most distinctive wildlife on the planet. For example, there are more than… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Cocker Spaniels are intelligent, loving, and affectionate. They have long bodies, soft and silky hair, dreamy eyes, and adorable floppy ears you can't resist scratching behind. Just looking at these… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Rainbow trout are part of the salmon family and native to the northern Pacific Ocean, from the Americas to Russia. However, today, they occur in several countries, including the United… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Ohio has over 5000 natural and man-made lakes. However, not all are safe for swimming, and many don't allow fishing. But, if you are looking for something more secluded where… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
If you've been considering neutering or spaying your cat but don't know how much it costs, you've come to the right place. Not only will neutering your cat save you… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
New York State is home to many plants, some of which can be highly dangerous if consumed or touched. Therefore, knowing which plants to avoid and where they grow is… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
California’s coastline has abundant fish and sea animals just waiting for you to explore. Beneath the waves, you will find fish of every shape, size, and species. However, only one… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Zoos can offer you and your family the amazing opportunity to see exotic animals from around the world. So whether you're interested in seeing lions, tigers, or elephants, you can… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Octopuses are intriguing creatures and are considered one of the most intelligent invertebrates. They belong to the order Octopoda, which has about 300 species, including squids. This soft-bodied species has… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Growing roses in New York is possible with these hardy rose species and varieties! The rose is the state flower of New York state. In 1890, legislators asked the schoolchildren… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Roses are timeless flowers and a common addition to bridal bouquets and wedding centerpieces. When you think of a rose, you think of love, compassion, and Beauty and the Beast.… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Aphids, also known as greenflies, are pesky insects that can destroy your beautiful rose bushes. These sap-suckers are a common garden pest that, when left unchecked, will permanently damage the… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Various native roses flourish in the distinct habitats of Maryland, a state recognized for its varied landscapes. These plants, which range from the fragrant Virginia rose to the vivid pink… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) resemble the sun due to their physical appearance. Their large, striking yellow flowers also tend to follow the sun's movement throughout the day. Photosynthesis in plants is… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
There are thousands of different types of daisy flowers that grow throughout the world that many of us have come across in our lives. How many times growing up, did… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Basil is one of the most popular herbs on the planet. In addition to its many culinary uses, it is also famous for its medicinal properties. There is a large… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Have you ever wondered about how many different varieties of mint there are? From peppermint's freshness to apple mint's sweetness, this herb has a world of aromas and flavors to… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Traditional medicine has made use of basil for many centuries thanks to its antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Basil is a wonderfully versatile herb, and its leaves can be used… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Basil is an easy-to-grow, delicious herb found in many cuisines throughout the world. Not only is basil versatile and can complement almost any recipe, whether sweet or savory, but it… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Succulents are lovely plants that grow in many diverse shapes and sizes. They tend to require less care than traditional houseplants, making them ideal for busy lifestyles. Not only do… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Whether you've been keeping up with the latest gardening trends or are an experienced gardener, you've probably heard about succulents. They're a type of plant that can survive in any… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Hey there, gardeners! We know you're busy, and we get it. You want to spend time with your plants, but you also don't want to spend all day in the… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
The world of succulents is a vast and diverse one, with thousands of species in all shapes, sizes, and colors. But regardless of which succulent you have, some basic care… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Do you want to cultivate Jamaican sea moss or Irish sea moss? Jamaican sea moss and Irish moss are algae in high demand due to their medicinal uses and vibrant… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
The Philodendron Imperial Red and Rojo Congo are considered absolute staples. It's easy to see why these plants are rising among plant lovers. With broad leaves and bold colors, these… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
If you want an easy way to grow healthy vegetables that support your health in almost all areas, look no further! Mustard greens and kale are not new vegetables, although… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Edamame and lima beans have a lot in common. They're both legumes, they both have high protein content, and they both grow in pods. But one thing that sets them… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
When it comes to Alliums, leeks and chives are two of the most popular. Both have a mild onion flavor and get used in various dishes, but there are some… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
Vinca and impatiens are two of the most popular annual flowers used in gardens and landscaping. While they are similar in some ways, there are also major differences. Vinca, also… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
What's the difference between Brussels sprouts and cabbage? Both are cruciferous vegetables, which means they're part of the Brassica family, along with cauliflower, broccoli, and kale. They're both packed with… Read More
By Larissa Smith 2 years ago
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