Diddier Morales Rivera is still climbing, and not just trees! The adventurous young nature lover from Sumter County is now in fifth place in his category for the prestigious National Junior Ranger Competition. He’s competing against 1,280 other students nationwide, and with just seven days left of voting, every vote and share counts more than ever. You can vote for him here: 

This fall, Diddier will enter 5th grade at Wildwood Elementary School, where he’s already known for his boundless curiosity and deep knowledge of wildlife. His passion for animals began early, says his mom, Alma Rivera.

(Diddier enjoys walking around and finding all sorts of unique critters.)

“He’s always been interested in animals,” Alma shares. “I have videos and pictures of him at just four years old talking about reptiles. He just absorbs everything—especially anything about snakes, insects, or iguanas.”

From snakes to spiders and everything in between, Diddier’s love for nature shines through. His favorite animals? The vibrantly colored blue and Fiji iguanas. As for snakes, he’s fascinated by hognose, corn, timber rattlesnakes, and ring-necked snakes. When he’s not studying or watching his favorite wildlife educator, Brian Barczyk, Diddier can usually be found outside on a new adventure, climbing trees, flipping over logs, and discovering critters in his Wildwood backyard.

A proud member of Encounter Church, Diddier believes his connection to nature is a way of appreciating God’s creation. “I love nature because of the magical creatures and the fresh air, the wildlife, everything you can imagine,” he says.

Now, Diddier is just a few spots away from advancing to the semifinals, and the prize is big: $20,000 and a feature in Ranger Rick Magazine, a dream come true for a future wildlife ambassador.

🌟 How You Can Help:
You can vote for Diddier once every 24 hours, and the family is asking everyone to vote daily and, more importantly, share the voting link with as many people as possible. Today votes are 2 for 1. You can vote here: