The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is celebrating the work of retired K-9 Susan, who sniffed out 1,500 pounds of saw palmetto berries throughout her career.
Susan and her handler, FWC Officer Wagner, were featured on the agency’s Instagram account, where the duo was remarked as a stellar crime-fighting team.
Susan was deployed 88 times throughout her career, assisting in various wildlife and resource protection cases.
Her keen nose helped recover crucial evidence in dozens of misdemeanor cases, including 1,500 pounds of illegally and unlawfully harvested saw palmetto berries, which led to felony charges.
WINK News has covered several arrests for illegally harvesting saw palmetto berries, with totals ranging upwards of 765 pounds seized in a single arrest.
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These multi-trunked palms, native to Florida, can reach heights and widths of up to ten feet.
Their palm fronds, which range in color from green to blue-silver, are fan-shaped.
The blossoms are followed from August to October by tiny golden berries that mature and turn black.
According to the FWC, more than 211 animal species, including butterflies, bees, and mammals, depend on plants for food and shelter.
Poaching of these berries is highly detrimental to the well-being of our environment and the species that rely on saw palmetto berries for survival.
Officer Wagner shared a memorable case where Susan found a machete hidden along a trail.
"Her find led me straight to a bag full of illegally harvested orchids — including the highly sought-after ghost orchid," said Officer Wagner.
Susan will enjoy her retirement with the Wagner family, receiving all the ear scratches and treats she deserves.