Month: June 2023

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June 2023

Third day in a row playing with manatees! I just park my kayak on the dam and they come to me. One sucked my hand right into his mouth! They have teeth like sting rays, just two hard plates, but a very soft pink tongue!
Nature John and I played with them for a while then decided to go over the dam and over the water goat and go up the creek. I had been only one other time and was stopped by a fallen tree, same this time but a fallen tree further north.
Nature John sent two videos of me and a manatee, and one he called Kayak Cleaner!

Manatee nose in the cool water coming over the dam.
Manatee snout while he uis nibbling on my kayak. It is amazing, they are longer than my kayak and weigh a ton, but they are very, very gentle.
Manatee coming up to see me.
In this photo you can even see his eyes!
His nose and pink tongue.
This one has a gash on his back.
This one has four scars from a propeller going fast.
Osprey on the top of a mast.
Little Greeh Heron preening on a boat lift.
Snowy Egret on the water goat.
Great White Egret
NJ slapped his paddle on his kayak to scare me, but all it did was scare the birds and the manatees. This photo is the Egret looking down to where we were as he was longingly trying to get back to the water.
Nature John petting a manatee.
Two juvenile Ibis between two adults.
Osprey

Thursday, June 29, 2023
Yesterday there were two manatees at the dam, this morning there were three! Again I rested my kayak on the dam and a manatee would come up to me! Nature John came up later and we both enjoyed the manatees for a while. Then NJ allowed me to use his guest bathroom, saved the day there!

TWO manatee noses on the dam.
Manatee head with whiskers!
Nose of a manatee letting the cool water from the forest go over him, the water north was much cooler than the ocean water.
Two noses!
Juvenile Little Blue
Snowy on the dam fishing.
Egret, Duck, and Snowy all on the goat.
Great Egret
Alan put out a corn cob for the birds!
Anhinga
Great Blue Heron.

Update:
Manatees are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973. It is illegal to feed, harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, annoy, or molest manatees.
The manatee is also protected by the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978, which states: “It is unlawful for any person, at any time, intentionally or negligently, to annoy, molest, harass, or disturb any manatee.”

Others say molesting the manatees is considered if you have 2 hands on one of them.

One hand is not considered molesting them or they would have left!

So I am sure we are fine, the manatees come to us, we did not feed, harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, annoy, or molest them.
There are places here in Florida where you can swim with them and touch them all you want!

June 28, 2023
A day that will go down in history for me. Nature John and I were paddling up Bear Creek when we saw dolphins. Then as we got up further, about 8 AM we came across two manatees. Nothing unusual about that but we followed them up to the dam. One put his snout right up on the dam and was drinking (I think) the cool fresh water coming over the dam. It was about 2 inches deep and was really cold. The second manatee was swimming right nearby. So, for the next hour and 15 minutes Nature John and I reveled in playing with the manatees. State law says you cannot harass manatees, but we did no such thing. The manatees would come up right beside us again and again (where is my GoPro) and “sniff” at our hand in the water. Then they would swim around and take a “bite” out of the side of the kayak. Then they would clean off any algae that was on the kayak. Around and around they circled us. Twice I had one manatee on either side of me and was able to touch both at the same time. For more than an hour they played with us. Many years ago I was able to touch a manatee, but this was another level of amazing. They really were curious, coming up behind Nature John’s kayak and plying with his lifting handle, several times. What an experience. Obviously they were too close to photograph when I was touching them, but I got a few with Nature John accepting an advance from one!

Allan's photo of a dolphin from his dock.
Allan's photo of a dolphin playing with his food before eating it!
Dorsal fin of dolphin zipping by.
Nature John paddling after a dolphin.
Manatee with head out of the water.
Manatee snout!
Manatee snout by my bow.
Manatee checking out JJ's lifting handle.
Quite young Little Blue.
Six ducks.
One of two Great Blue Herons I saw today
One of four Yellow Crown Night Herons.
One of five Anhingas hiding in the mahgroves.
Following is a series of photographs of a Brown Pelican. He took off, flew for a bit, thensubmerged completely. When he resurfaced he drained the water out of his pouch and lifted up his beak and swallowed the fish he had just caught.

Update Monday:
Out my back window is an Osprey eating his lunch.

Monday, June 26, 2023
Even more interaction with dolphins AND manatees!
A manatee lifted the stern of my kayak and turned me about 30° counterclockwise! He did not dump me, I think it may have been a mistake. It sounded like he had barnacles on his body that lifted my stern leaving little pin hole marks.
Also Jason and I watched two dolphin chasing fish, the larger dolphin caught a 12 inch fish!.

Dolphin dorsal fin near my kayak!
Smaller dolphin.
I saw dolphins, then saw manatees, then this is the second sighting of a dolphin!
Manatee snout
Kinda looks like an elephant!
Ibis
Brown Pelican
Yellow Crowned Night Heron
Little Green
Small flock of parrots.
Great Blue Heron
Apollo
Blue Jay
Alan put out a new wood box, I do not know what it is, but a squirrel was messing with it!
Snowy
Crow
One of three rigs to build docks. A barge with a crane, spuds to hold it in place and other equipment.
Ever faithful Osprey.

Sunday, June 25, 2023
Dolphins, manatees! A great day! First came the dolphins, I do not know how many but I saw several break the surface to take a breath, they were so quick. I only got one small dorsal fin photo, even though I saw at least 6. One was coming straight at me and rocked my kayak! At the same time a lady on shore said that there were several manatees right there! I only saw one nose, too quick to get a photo.

Dorsal fin of one of the dolphins.
Dolphin coming straight for me, throwing up quite the wake, rocked my kayak!
Crow harassing the Osprey, I cannot see any reason, just mean. Then later i saw a Moxking Bird chasing a Crow.
Black Skimmer making his rounds, he skimmed all around the island and back and forth, he came within 20 feet of me, but was too fast to get a photo.
Cormorant flying by.
Little Green Heron
Female Mallard Duck
Like water off of a duck's back!
Snowy Egret
A bite for breakfast!
The female Anhinga is back where she had been for months in a mangrove tree.
Yellow Crowned Night Heron I just woke up.
He came out displaying!!
Osprey by my place.

Saturday. June 24, 2023
A beautiful day!! A few high clouds, moderate temperature, NICE! Today there is no wind and the bay is like glass.

Female Anhinga at dawn by my place.
She got s little excited as I approached.
She regained composure as I moved away.
Oysters squirting water into the air at the oyster bed.
One of two Osprey on top of masts!
Second Osprey on a different mast.
Juvenile Night Heron. Black Crowned or Yellow Crowned yet to be displayed. On one foot showing that he is comfortable, in fact when I went by later he was asleep in the same place!
Junior Yellow Crowned Night Heron.
Little Green on board a powerboat.
Little Green figured I was too close, raised its crown and flew across the creek.
Female Mallard Duck.
Great Egret standing on the dam fishing.
Female Cardinal flouncing her feathers. The male was behind abush.
Blue Jay.
Cormorant
Great Blue Heron on the smaller oyster bar.
Brown Pelican overhead!

Thursday, June 22, 2023
A short day today, I almost made it home before a small thunderstorm hit! The thunder and lightning hit at the same time! Then pouring rain filled my kayak, I got home soaked!!

Osprey by my house.
Another Osprey on the island.
Great Blue Heron soaking wet.
Yellow Crowned Night Heron
Cormorant came up right in front of my kayak.

Monday, June 17, 2023 Juneteenth, a federal holiday.
It has been cloudy and rain the past few days, but today was clear and beautiful. 
Manatees today! Several cavorting around in front of Bob and Di’s place!

The head of one of the manatees.
Manatee tail
Two manatees.
Osprey keeping watch over me.
Yellow Crowned Night Heron
Juvenile Little Blue Heron
Great Heron on the dam in front of the water goat.
Snowy on the dam.
(AI ) A beautiful bright red Cardinal perched on a wooden railing, fluffed his feathers and looked towards me. The remarkable bird was enjoying a peaceful moment in the yard, as he waited patiently to get the seeds from the bird feeder, which was hanging few feet away. As soon as he saw some action, he flew over, balancing himself with his sharp claws on the bird feeder, and started nibbling away at the seeds in the feeder. The Cardinal bird, with his distinctive red plumage and distinctive crest atop his head, appeared to be perfectly happy with his own company and the delicious seeds from the feeder. The natural scene was a wonder to behold, with the vibrant bird and his surroundings. It was a delightful moment of nature and beauty that filled the heart with peace and tranquility.
The Cardinal was then chased away by a Grackle.
Grackle.

Thursday (Thor’s day) June 15, 2023
(I have a necklace with Thor’s hammer on it!)
The tide was in (Nature John called it what it was, a King Tide). 
Another day for the GoPro. An Osprey landed right in front of me going after a fish. Too close to get a clear photo!! The two photos I did get off were way out of focus. He really surprised me landing so close!
Allan said that I missed the dolphin. All around a crazy day! The day started out solid clouds and windy, the clouds moved away and the wind picked up to 10 to 15 knots, a wave splashed right into my kayak – it made for hard to photograph anything it was so rough.

Osprey hit the water right in front of my bow!! A GoPro moment!
Osprey too close taking off.
Two Osprey close together! That is unusual!
Osprey on the right, all photos of the one on the left are blurry due to wave action on my kayak!
Ibis up in the mangroves, probably due to the choppy water..
Another GoPro moment, this Snowy landed almost above me then took off.
Juvenile Little Blue with his white feathers, his tail is showing his future colors though.
Snowy Egret
Great Egret

Monday June 12, 2023
Another nice day, I spotted one Skimmer, a Great Blue exposing himself, and lots of ducks.

In the quiet of the marina, a great blue heron perched on a powerboat with wings akimbo. Was it displaying looking for a mate? The bird's long, slender legs stretched out beneath its graceful body, balancing it delicately on the windshield. Its gray-blue feathers glinted in the sun, adding a touch of ethereal beauty to the tranquil surroundings. With a regal tilt of its head, and a slight squawking noise, the heron gazed out over the shimmering water, as if lost in thought. Perhaps it was pondering its next catch or simply enjoying the peacefulness of the moment. Whatever the case, its presence added a touch of wild wonder to the otherwise-manicured marina, a reminder of the natural world beyond the boats and docks.
Female Anhinga drying out.
Cormorant on a day marker.
Ibus in the mangroves on the north end of the island.
Odprey on a light pole in the marina eating his breakfast of fish.
It was a big fish, with the tail hanging over!
Two Little Green Herons on the bow rail of a boat in the marina.
The fab four are now flying!!
Yellow Crowned Night Heron
Snowy Egret.
Another of the three Ospreys around.

Sunday, June 11, 2023
Sunshine with a few puffy clouds! 74° and nice. Slight breeze out of the south.
Two Black Skimmers came by! They are so fast it is hard to get a photo! Skimming along above the smooth water next to the marina!

Osprey behind my house.
You are forewarned a bird is about to fly when they dump any waste!
....and off he goes.
Flying high, looking for his next meal.
Cormorant preening.
A Crow harassing a Great Blue Heron. The Crows have taken over the island where the Great Blues and the Little Greens used to have their nests.
Four juvenile Mallard Ducks
Female Downy Woodpecker on a dead tree.
Male Downy Woodpecker at the entrance to what looks like a hole to a nest.
Little Green Heron

Saturday, June 10, 2023
Another fabulous day, full sun after a bit of clouds on the horizon. 

A young female Anhinga.
Baby Little Green with his baby feathers on his head sticking up!
Osprey way up on the sailboat mast watching for breakfast!
Dove up in a tree.
One of three Yellow Crowned Night Herons this morning.
Snowy Egret on a pipeline catching little fish.
Cardinal

Friday, June 9, 2023
Beautiful weather, a dolphin encounter this morning! As usual, I cannot get photos of things closer than ten feet. This morning I had been watching a dolphin up in front of me. when all of a sudden to my left about 3-4 feet away, a dolphin came up! He was facing me. He looked at me for a second, then splashed me and submerged under my kayak! WOW! I took 4 photos of him, none are recognizable as anything but a blur. I have thought many times of getting a go-pro for times like this. It would have made a great video! They are $400 and only take video for 85 minutes, I am out for 3 hours and I have no idea when nature will suprize me.

Dolphin surprised me - 3 feet away, where is my phone or Go-Pro?
Dolphin 500 feet away.
Dolphin 600 feet away.
Osprey 100 feet away.
Osprey 300 feet away up on a mast of a sailboat in the marina.
Third Osprey 100 feet away.
Little Green Heron
Female Anhinga

Thursday, June 8, 2023
For the first time in almost two years I did not get a photo because my battery had died. The battery in my Nikon D300 lasts a long time, I do not have to charge it up for about a month. This morning a Black Skimmer came around fishing – I missed the shot. I have put a spare, fully charged, battery in my waterproof container that I take every day, so, if it ever happens again I am prepared.
No dolphins or manatees, but a Yellow Crowned Night Heron catching a crab!

Little Green Heron
Juvenile Yellow Crowned Night Heron
Crab for breakfast!
Juvenile Little Blue Heron
Fab four
Snowy

Monday June 5, 2023
Two dolphins today, no photos of them though, they were too close! All nine plus mom ducks are doing well.

Osprey dragging his feet in the water to clean them!
Snowy checking out the bugs on the seawakk, breakfast!
Cormorand on a piling.
Osprey drying off.
Two juvenile Ibis.
Juvenile Little Blue.
Mom and nine still sticking together!
Yellow Crowned Night Heron
Buckeye butterfly.

Sunday June 4, 2023
Another awesome day, three dolphins!

Friday, June 2, 2023

Another great day. Tuesday I volunteer at Gulfport, so no kayaking. Wednesday it was cloudy and in the afternoon we had a severe thunderstorm, dropping more than 5 inches of rain, my rain gage only goes to 5 inches, and it was overflowing! Thursday was a cloudy day. Today, sunshine, 70° and nice.

(AI ) The Snowy Egret is a beautiful bird that can be found along the seawall searching for food. With its bright white feathers. yellow feet, and contrasting black legs and beak, it stands out sharply against the grey concrete of the seawall. It is a skilled hunter, using its long, thin beak to catch small fish and crustaceans that live in the shallow waters and on the seawall. It is an agile bird, quickly darting its head into the water to snatch up its prey. Watching them hunt is a sight to behold, as they move gracefully through the water, at times their wings spread wide to maintain balance. The Snowy Egret is an essential part of the ecosystem, playing a crucial role in controlling the populations of small animals that they prey upon. It is always a joy to see these wading birds in action, as they work hard to survive in their natural habitat.
(AI ) The Snowy Egret is a small, white heron with a delicate appearance, often visible in wetlands and marshes. These birds are skilled at walking slowly and standing still, waiting for their prey to appear. Today, this Snowy Egret was seen walking along the dam in front of a "water goat," a device designed to remove debris and pollutants from water. As the egret strutted along, it suddenly caught sight of its next meal. With lightning-fast reflexes, it lowered its head and snatched a small fish from the water's surface. The egret's sharp beak and keen hunting instincts allowed it to find food even in an area altered by human activity. As the egret continued on its way, undisturbed by the water goat, it reminded us of the resilience and adaptability of nature in the face of human development.
Snowy fluffing its feathers.
Snowy on the wing up high!
(AI) The osprey is a magnificent bird of prey that is often found near bodies of water. It is a skilled hunter, using its sharp talons to catch fish from the water's surface. Once it has secured its meal, the osprey will often head to a nearby perch to eat and dry off. The bird's feathers are specially designed to repel water, but they can still become saturated after diving into the water. To dry off, the osprey will often spread its wings wide, exposing its feathers to the sun and wind. This helps to dry off the feathers and make them more manageable for flight. As the osprey dries its feathers, it provides a beautiful sight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Osprey way up high on the wing.
Second sighting of an Osprey.
(AI ) Juvenile Little Blue, just like any other young bird, was still in the process of growing and developing. Only a few blue feathers had started to come in, indicating that he was still quite young. As he matured, he would continue to gain more blue feathers, and his deep blue color would become more prominent. Despite his young age, Little Blue was already learning how to fly and navigate his surroundings. He would pursue insects and other small creatures to feed himself, honing his hunting skills. He would also socialize with his peers, learning the customs and behavior of his species. Although he had much to learn and still had a long way to go, Juvenile Little Blue was full of potential and promise, eager to explore the world and discover everything it had to offer.
Juvenile Little Blue on top of warning sign.
On the shore fishing.
The fab four plus mom.
Mom plus nine.
Mom with one new duckling.
Great Blue Heron
Mockingbird
Brown Pelican on the wing.
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Marine Max Fuel Dock

I want to remind everyone that there will be a meeting tonight at 6:30 at South Pasadena City Hall (7047 Sunset Drive South) regarding the proposed fueling facility.

The City does not have any regard for environmental conditions and has deemed the fueling facility safe because it is not installed in an aquatic land!

Everyone is encouraged to attend, sign in and leave a comment card. Please note that we need your voice as the City has already recommended approval: see below:

The waters here in Boca Ciega Bay are rich in wildlife that would be affected by any fuel spill.

Really, boats have other options for fuel, Gulfport, Tierra Verde, yard tanks on site, and fuel trucks, etc.

I have no beef with the existing Marine Max. The workers are nice, but sometimes let supplies they use get away from them. I have cleaned up many blue skid pads and empty cleaning bottles, etc. I paddle my kayak over to the marina every day. The manager of Marine Max (John) did come over and rescue me one day when my kayak sunk while I was in the marina.

I moved to my residence 25 years ago because I found it to be the only estuary around, the natural wetlands adjacent to the Bay.

Following are photographs taken in the area

There is a provision in the submittal for fire extinguishers. The need for fire extinguishers indicate that the owner anticipates a fuel spill.There is no procvision for mitigating fuel in the water however. Possibly a boom, pads to soak up oil or other measures could be required.
As I reflect on the proposed fuel dock in our area, I am filled with a deep sense of concern regarding the negative impact this development could have on our environment and local wildlife. The fuel dock would be located such to degrade everything downstream from Marine Max. This has significant implications for our property. We are at risk of being adversely affected by more floating debris and fuel spills that could result from Marine Max's operations.The introduction of a fuel dock could lead to an alarming increase in pollution levels and cause considerable damage to our local ecosystem. As a result, delicate aquatic creatures could be adversely affected, and the recreational activities and wildlife that depend on a healthy environment could be negatively impacted.I am reaching out to you officials to express our concerns and urge them to prioritize the welfare of our natural environment above all else. Together, I trust that we can create a brighter and more sustainable future for everyone.
As a coastal area with prevailing winds going NE to SW, any spill in the vicinity would have a significant impact on both the local environment and environmentally sensitive areas such as the oyster bar. Even small spills can cause long-term damage to the marine ecosystem and hurt the wildlife who rely on it. The movement of pollutants could impact water quality and aquatic life. In addition to the direct economic costs, spills could have long-lasting implications for the reputation and sustainability of the oyster bar and the surrounding area. Therefore, it is necessary to take proactive measures to prevent spills and to respond quickly and effectively in the event of any incidents to mitigate the potential damage.
Recently, a juvenile bald eagle was spotted at the oyster bar. This was a unique sighting, as bald eagles are not often seen in this type of environment. The young bird was likely on the hunt for food, as bald eagles are known to consume a variety of prey, including fish and shellfish. I was excited to see this majestic bird up close, as bald eagles are a symbol of strength and freedom in many cultures. Overall, this sighting demonstrates the amazing adaptability and resourcefulness of bald eagles, which are known to thrive in a variety of environments across North America. It also reminds us of the importance of preserving and protecting the habitats of these remarkable birds, which are considered one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring species in the world.
An Anhinga swoops down into the still waters of the marina. His sharp beak pierces the surface, and he deftly catches a small fish in his beak. With fish in his beak, the Anhinga emerges from the water and takes flight to a nearby perch. He bobs his head back and forth before tossing the fish into the air and swallowing it whole. As he rests on his perch, he stretches his wings out to dry in the morning sun. The Anhinga will continue to hunt and fish throughout the day, taking advantage of the peaceful waters of the marina as his personal hunting ground. Any fuel spill would adversely affect him!
This photo depicts the bow of my kayak that shows the result of some spills that have accumulated over time. I am concerned that with the installation of a new fuel dock, things may worsen. While these recent spills may not pose a significant problem, if they continue to pile up, they could become a concern. It is important to address even minor spills immediately to prevent them from getting worse. A good approach would be to clean the area regularly and to make sure the area is secure. Additionally, it may be helpful to develop better practices such as using a drip tray or changing fuel containers with more care. By being proactive, the owner can avoid the need for expensive mitigation in the future.
White Pelicans, known for their striking white plumage and impressive wingspan of up to nine feet, are known to travel long distances during migration. At times, these birds make pit stops in various locations along the way, and one such location is this bay. Here, they find a temporary sanctuary to rest and rejuvenate before continuing their journey. White Pelicans are social creatures and enjoy living in large flocks, which is why the bay is an ideal location for them to take refuge, as the wide expanse of water offers ample space to accommodate them. These birds are also skilled fishers and can often be seen diving their heads into the water to catch their next meal. Overall, the presence of white pelicans in the bay adds to the beauty and diversity of this ecosystem.
Located south of the marina and adjacent bay is a phenomenal oyster bar where bird visitors can indulge in delicious seafood. Recently, an ibis was spotted enjoying a meal at this bar, adding to the charm and natural beauty of the location. Whether one is an animal enthusiast or simply seeking a location to stop and fish, the area is definitely worth a visit. With its proximity to the coastline and reputation for excellent oysters and a great fishing location, the oyster bar is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the area's offerings. Don't miss the chance to visit this remarkable spot and perhaps catch a glimpse of the local wildlife in action.
An ibis catches breakfast by scanning the oyster bar. It uses its sharp beak and keen eyesight to spot a slightly open oyster, revealing a tasty morsel inside. The ibis leans forward and pulls out the treat, repeating the process several times until it's full. It savors each bite and then takes to the sky, content and satisfied.
Kingfisher sitting atop the marina buildings, scanning for fish to surface. The Kingfisher flits along, catching fish as he desires.
A pair of Oyster Catchers and their friend waddled around the oyster bar with beaks clicking in excitement. The trio had been using the oyster bar for a reliable source of food for themselves and their young. They knew that the oyster bar was known for its delicious and succulent oysters that were perfect for their growing hatchlings. As they feasted on the juicy oysters, they chatted away to each other, glad that they had found a place that suited their needs perfectly. As they left, the Oyster Catchers couldn't help but feel grateful for the plentiful food supply that the oyster bar had provided for them and their adorable young.
Oyster Catcher eating an oyster.
The Anhinga, also known as the "water turkey," is a unique bird species commonly found near and in water bodies. They exhibit a peculiar habit of spreading their wings to dry them after diving in water to catch fish. The dense feathered wings of Anhingas are perfectly adapted to their diving lifestyle, but they are susceptible to damage caused by oil spills. Oil spills can contaminate the birds' feathers, destroy their insulating properties, and alter their buoyancy. Consequently, oil-soaked Anhingas may experience hypothermia, and are unable to fly, hunt, and care for their young. The consequences of an oil spill can be catastrophic to this species and many others that depend on clean water for survival. Proper safety measures and practices are necessary to prevent oil spills in water bodies and protect the delicate balance of the ecosystem. A new fuel dock may be the death nell of many of these birds if a spill occurs.
The bay is a popular place to kayak, myself every day and others enjoy it as well.
This stunning picture captures the essence of nature's charm in the most unexpected of places - the Marine Max marina. The focal point of the photograph is a brilliant Little Green perched on a hose, effortlessly fishing from atop. The crisp and vivid colors of the bird are juxtaposed against the background of a boat in the marina, creating a beautiful contrast between the wild and the man-made. The intricate details of the bird's feathers, beak, and claws are captured meticulously in this photograph, making it a work of art. The photograph also highlights the importance of coexisting with nature and finding beauty in the midst of the mundane. Overall, this photo encapsulates the joy and wonder of nature in its purest form. Lets not ruin it.
A juvenile Little Green in a nest rear the marina, waiting for parents to bring him fish.
The Cormorant with the hook at the end of his beak is well adapted for swimming and fishing underwater. With its sleek body and strong webbed feet, the bird can swim quickly and efficiently, and its sharp, curved beak is perfectly suited for catching fish. Unfortunately, Cormorants and other aquatic birds are vulnerable to oil spills, which can disrupt the delicate balance of their environment and damage their feathers, making it hard for them to swim and hunt. When oil gets into the water, it can also contaminate the fish that Cormorants rely on, causing further harm to these important birds. As a result, it's important for humans to protect aquatic environments and prevent oil spills from occurring whenever possible, in order to help preserve the habitat of the Cormorant and other aquatic creatures.
When looking at this breathtaking photo of a dolphin swimming and fishing near the Marine Max entrance, we can't help but imagine the devastating consequences of an oil spill in this area. Potentially, an oil spill could be catastrophic for the marine life that calls these waters home and the delicate ecosystem that supports them. The dolphin in the photo may be particularly vulnerable to an oil spill, as exposure to oil contamination could result in severe health issues or even death. As an apex predator, this dolphin is integral to maintaining balance in the local food chain, and any disruptions could have far-reaching implications throughout the entire ecosystem. It is of paramount importance that steps are taken to prevent such disasters from occurring, and that there are effective response plans in place should a worst-case scenario unfold. In light of this, it begs the question: does Marine Max have floating barriers in place, and a plan to dispatch them at a moment's notice if needed? This should be manditory with periodic inspections by the City, is the City ready for that resposibility?
Dolphin raising tail to slap it down and herd the fish he wants for breakfast.
The osprey is an apex predator that feeds almost exclusively on fish. This bird of prey relies heavily on clean waterways to thrive, making it highly vulnerable to any kind of fuel spill. The toxic chemicals from spilled oil can contaminate the water, killing off fish populations and reducing the availability of food for ospreys. Ingesting contaminated fish can also cause health problems for these birds, leading to illness or death. Moreover, the presence of oil on their feathers can affect the osprey's flight and hunting abilities, making it difficult for them to catch fish and survive. The osprey, like many other wildlife species, is integral to the balance of the ecosystem and any disruption caused by a fuel spill could have a significant impact on the environment and other species.
Osprey eating fish caught in the bay.
The Laughing Gull, also known as Leucophaeus atricilla, is a common species of gulls found in the marina and its surroundings. These birds are scavengers and opportunistic feeders, and they pick up anything in the water that looks edible. This makes them vulnerable to the harmful effects of fuel spills in the water. Fuel spills can contaminate the water and endanger marine life, including gulls that depend on it for food. The toxic chemicals found in fuels can harm or even kill the Laughing Gull. Therefore, it is important to ensure that fuels are handled and managed properly to avoid any accidents that could lead to spills.
Fiddler crabs are small, shore-dwelling crustaceans that make up an important part of the coastal ecosystem. They are vulnerable to oil spills since they live in intertidal areas where oil floats on the surface of the water. Oil spills can have significant impacts on fiddler crabs by coating them with oil, making it difficult to breathe, move, and find food. The toxic chemicals in oil can also impact the development and reproductive success of the crabs, leading to long-term population declines. In addition to direct impacts, oil spills can also harm the habitats and food sources that fiddler crabs rely on, including mangroves, marshes, and plankton. Therefore, it is essential to prevent oil spills from happening and respond quickly in the event of a spill to minimize the impacts on fiddler crab populations and the health of the coastal ecosystem.
The seawall located across the marina has prominent lines that have been formed due to previous oil stains. These stains have permanently marked the wall, leaving behind traces of their occurrence. The lines are prominent and are visible to the naked eye. The severity of the oil spills is clear from the intensity of the lines, reminding visitors of the adverse effects of such spills on the environment. It serves as a visual reminder of the importance of environmental conservation and the need to remain vigilant when it comes to preventing oil spills. Overall, it is a reminder of the fragility of the ecosystem and the need for environmental responsibility. A fuel dock would only make it worse.
The presence of fuel in the water could have a catastrophic impact on the several flocks of ducks that reside in the area. These birds rely on clean water to survive and thrive, and the addition of oil or other fuels could wreak havoc on their habitats and food sources. The toxic chemicals in the fuel could damage the feathers of the ducks, impairing their ability to fly and stay warm. The fumes from the fuel could also cause respiratory problems for the birds, making it difficult for them to breathe and eventually leading to death. In addition to the environmental toll, the loss of these flocks of ducks could also have economic and cultural impacts. The advertisements for Dawn showing the cleanup of ducks is very real.
A duck with caked feathers and a smeared food source would look unhealthy and unkempt. Feathers are an essential part of a duck's body as it helps them swim, fly, stay warm, and protect against water and wind. If the feathers are caked, it could cause a lack of waterproofing and thermal insulation, leading to hypothermia and other health issues. Similarly, a smeared food source could attract harmful bacteria and parasites, leading to diseases and infections. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that ducks and other animals receive proper protection and care to maintain their health and well-being.
The Snowy Heron is a majestic bird that can be found wading in shallow water and hunting for fish along coastlines and wetlands. Their pure white feathers and delicate features make them a sight to behold. However, with an oil spill, this beauty can turn into a nightmare. Oil spills pose a significant threat to coastal environments and the wildlife that depend on them. The thick and toxic oil coats the bird's feathers, making it impossible for them to fly, swim, or hunt, ultimately leading to dehydration, starvation, and death. It's essential to protect our coastal habitats, so incidents like oil spills don't occur. By doing so, we can ensure that our Snowy Herons, along with other coastal wildlife, remain thriving and continue to enchant us with their natural beauty.
Snowy fishing by a fugitive fender from the marina
Snowy
The great Blue Heron is a magnificent bird that has adapted itself to live in the estuary adjacent to the marina - the area where freshwater Bear Creek meets the salty seas. They are known to feed on fish, crustaceans, amphibians, and insects. However, their habitat is highly vulnerable to oil spills. The impact of an oil spill could be disastrous for the herons as it could contaminate their food sources and impair their ability to hunt. The oil can also stick to their feathers, causing them to lose their insulating properties and making it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. Moreover, the ingestion of oil can cause severe health problems and may even lead to death. Therefore, it is crucial to take all necessary measures to prevent oil spills and minimize their impacts on our precious estuaries and the wildlife that calls them home, like the great Blue Heron.
The Yellow Crown Night heron is a beautiful species that can be found wading in the waters surrounding Marine Max. These majestic birds rely heavily on their environment to survive, with clean water being an essential factor in their survival. Unfortunately, many water bodies around the world have been heavily polluted due to human activities, which has posed a great threat to the Yellow Crown Night heron and other aquatic birds. The pollution of waterways can lead to a range of problems, including the death of species, the spread of diseases and the destruction of habitats. It is therefore important for us to take measures that will help protect the environment and ensure that the water is clean and safe for the Yellow Crown Night heron to live in.
Yellow Crowned Night Heron with his crab for breakfast.
The Little Blue is a small, beautifully colored bird that is popular among birders. However, as an adult Little Blue that fishes from the shore, any oil spill would be detrimental to its survival. Oil spills can have devastating effects on marine life, including birds, fish and their habitats. The toxic chemicals in oil spills can contaminate the water, making it impossible for birds to thrive. Ingesting these pollutants can lead to internal injuries and even death, while the destruction of their habitats can result in a loss of food sources and shelter. As a result, it is imperative to prevent oil spills from occurring and prepare for their mitigation in case of an accident to save the Little Blue and other marine life from harm.
The juvenile Little Blue heron is an interesting sight to see. This bird is easily distinguishable from adult Little Blue herons by its predominantly white feathers with grayish tips. Juvenile Little Blues have not yet developed the full blue-grey plumage that adult birds have. This young bird spends most of its time immersed in water, searching for crabs, mollusks, fish, and other aquatic creatures. Juvenile Little Blues can be found in a wide variety of habitats, including marshes, swamps, wetlands, shallow ponds, and even estuaries. They use their long pointed beaks to catch prey, and when they find something to eat, they often stab it with their beak before swallowing it whole. These birds are fascinating to observe, particularly when they are still learning to survive in the wild.
The Brown and White Pelicans are two bird species that are commonly seen fishing in the waters located south of the marina. These birds primarily depend on the cleanliness of their habitat for their survival. Unfortunately, if oil is present in the water, it can severely harm these birds' health and threaten their lives. Oil causes damage to bird's feathers, making it difficult for the birds to fly and swim. Moreover, if the birds accidentally consume oil-contaminated fish, they can become ill or die. Therefore, it is essential to keep these waters free of oil to preserve the natural habitat for these birds, maintain the food chain balance of the ecosystem, and protect the environment.
Two Brown Pelicans.
As the juvenile Caspian Tern flew along the shoreline, its keen eyes caught sight of an oyster bar below, glistening in the sun. Diving down towards the inviting water, it extended its wings to slow down, before landing gracefully on the oyster bar's edge. Looking around, the tern spotted a large oyster, and with its sharp beak swiftly pried open the shell to extract the flesh, enjoying the salty taste. Suddenly, the air filled with the loud calls of other Caspian Terns, and the juvenile instinctively knew it was time to move on. Taking off from the oyster bar, it soared into the sky, raring to explore new territories on its migratory path. The oyster bar, once still and silent, now teemed with life, as other seabirds arrived to sample the bounty it had to offer.
Even doves occupy the oyster bar at times.