Linear view vs. Masonry View

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!
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Poor Wile E. Coyote

Not My Photo – CTTO

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).

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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!”

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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!
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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!
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Island Project

This morning, I answered a Facebook plea for volunteers to help clean up a nearby island. I tend to pitch in when I can but I’ll be honest, the added enticement of a boat ride made me even more eager.

Both Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves and Keep Pinellas Beautiful teamed up to host this event. I was familiar with KPB’s work but it was my first time learning about TBAP (they are mainly in charge of submerged areas but in some cases of high priority, they manage islands, too).

Our worksite was a three-acre island with the incredibly romantic name of BC 21 (Boca Ciega Bay, near marker 21). Our job, removing flotsam and jetsam, was made a bit easier since a crew had already cleared out invasive trees, like Brazilian Pepper and Australian Pine.

We collected over 1,000 pounds of trash in just a few hours, clearing the entire western side of the island. The debris on the eastern side of the island will have to wait for another day. Fittingly, for the upcoming holiday weekend, I found some stars and stripes related items.

Once the rainy season starts (hopefully soon), TBAP will be back out to plant native species, restoring the tree canopy for migrating birds and other animals. Speaking of wildlife, we crossed paths with a couple Marsh Rabbits and a shy snake in the mangroves while out in the shallows, a young dolphin was learning to fish from its mom.

Not a bad way to spend a morning!
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