Spotted this immense and laden mango tree on my way home from a park this past weekend. I made a u-turn just to take these photos. The tree absolutely dwarfs the house! I wonder how old it is? I’d be a happy girl if this was in my yard!
Author Archives
Erin
Coddiwompling through life, guided by my love of nature and insatiable curiosity.Morning Traffic
What a view! Looking northeast across Tampa Bay, in the background is the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
And yes, the water really was that color. Just gorgeous!
Pretty, Pernicious
The Water Hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes) originated in the Amazon Basin but has since been introduced around the world, for better or worse.
While beautiful (and in some cases, useful) this species has amazing regenerating super powers: not only is it one of the fastest growing plants on the planet (up to 16 feet in a day), it can also spread by stolons as well as by seed. All of which make control or eradication near impossible.
This rapid reproduction means the species can quickly cover a body of water, disrupting an entire ecosystem. On the plus side, they excel at removing heavy metals from waterways which can be helpful in a water treatment system. The stems are fibrous and can be woven into a multitude of useful items.
Looks like Floridians better start learning to weave!
Porthole
Poor Wile E. Coyote
There are a couple sand sculpture festivals here in Treasure Island every year and I am always in awe of what can be created out of grains of sand. This might be my favorite one yet – so simple and yet such an iconic image (Note: I did not see this in person, found it on the internet).
While humorous, I thought it might be a good time to remind folks that it is sea turtle nesting season, therefore it is important to fill in any large holes on the beach. Turtles can get stuck in the holes (and trust me, lugging her body across the sand, digging a nest, and laying 100 eggs is more than enough work for her).
Sunset Surfer
He was hoping to catch one last wave but his family was calling him away, so he just stared wistfully out at the water for a few minutes. I don’t surf but I fully understand how hard it is to leave the beach!
Cute Crustacean
Recently spent a relaxing day at my favorite spot in nearby Fort De Soto Park. As on my previous visits, I encountered something new and interesting to learn about.
This time the critter introduced itself by scuttling over my toes while I was wading in the bay. While the Longnose Spider Crab (Libinia dubia) may not win any beauty contests, it is perfectly camouflaged for the silty seagrass beds it lives in.
According to my bit of research, they are known to attach pieces of vegetation to further enhance their disguise. Pretty crafty little crabs!
The wildest tidbit about this species is that they have been found happily residing inside Cannonball Jellies. The hows and whys are still not fully understood but it would be a safe place to grow up and the food is free. Not sure how the Cannonball benefits, other than maybe bragging rights, “Hey, guys, look at me. I’ve got a crab in my head!”
Toilet Royalty
I’m curious about the owner of this truck. Though I suppose one should have a crown when sitting on the throne…
Priorities
Walking behind these girls last night on the beach. The mom called out, “Hurry up, Carson, we’ve got to go!”
As Carson took off running she yelled to her mom, “But, can’t we have a little fun along the way?”
The scene stopped me in my tracks, because, of course, Carson is absolutely right. It seems to me that’s pretty much the entire point of living.
Oh sure, one must work and fulfill other daily obligations but beyond that? I truly believe we are meant to savor those sunsets, laugh with friends, dance barefoot in the sand, stop to smell the flowers, share sweet kisses, and enjoy life while we have it.
Thanks for the reminder, Carson!
Little Gift
I found this tiny gem (less than an inch long) on my doorstep this morning. There’s been a pair of Blue Jays visiting my yard regularly, they are quite fond of my bird feeder but even more so of the bird bath. I clean it daily and fill it with fresh water, which they take turns frolicking in.
I wonder if this token was from them? They have been known to do such things. I’ll be on the lookout for more treats in the future. For now, Poubelle*, will have a spot on my kitchen windowsill where she can watch the Blue Jays every day.
*Poubelle is French for trash can. It was also a friend of mine’s nickname during her childhood (given with affectionate by her grandfather). Besides, it’s a fun word to say!
3rin's View... 