Armadillos Connected to Leprosy, Motown's Music Legacy, and Eyes on Eagles | 8-27-2026 | WGCU News

In this episode of Southwest Florida in Focus, we explore compelling local stories shaping our community: Armadillos Connected to Leprosy Cases: The Florida Department of Health has confirmed 19 cases of leprosy this year, on pace to pass the modern high of 39 cases from 2025. The National Institutes of Health says nine-banded armadillos naturally carry the bacteria that transmits leprosy, which can be spread through soil or direct contact. WGCU’s Jennifer Crawford sits down with Dr. Juan Campos Krauer, professor at the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine, to explore the connection between armadillos and leprosy. Legacy Motown Showcases Soul Music Icons: It was 67 years ago when music producer Berry Gordy Jr. opened "Hitsville USA,” and brought the rhythms of Motown into mainstream popular music. "Legacy Motown and More” showcases artists including the Jackson 5, The Temptations, and Stevie Wonder, while incorporating tight harmonies and classic showmanship. WGCU Arts Reporter Tom Hall gives WGCU’s Jennifer Crawford an inside look at the performance at the Florida Studio Theatre. Florida Seawalls Adapt with Climate Change: According to the Florida Climate Center, sea levels have increased in South Florida by nearly eight inches since the mid-20th century. Now, architects and designers are adapting infrastructure and trying to help coastal communities threatened by climate change. The Associated Press looks at the new technology that is adapting to the change in weather. All Eyes on Eagles: Audubon Florida says at least 1,500 eagle nesting pairs live in the Sunshine State. Despite the upward trend in the number of eagles, threats to the protected species are of concern. Audubon Florida says recently in Collier County, a roofing company and two homeowners were fined for roof work within a buffer zone of an active bald eagle nest. WGCU’s Jennifer Crawford talks with Audubon EagleWatch Program Director Cheryl Merz about how these regulations can help the eagle population rebound. Guide Dogs Train at Mote Aquarium: Marine mammals are a common sight at Mote Science Education Aquarium in Sarasota. But last week guide dogs in training walked the halls as part of a unique field trip. WGCU Investigative Reporter Eileen Kelley and Multi-Media Journalist Andrea Melendez explain how a visit to the aquarium helps teach these guide dogs for their future endeavors.