September 2017.
During the recent eclipse, shielded rays of the sun focused sharply on Joe’s Creek, offering a close up view of some of its diminutive creatures and features. Even minnows cast a distinct shadow. Perhaps due to a pinhole camera effect of light filtering through tree leaves, dozens of images of the eclipse appeared on the paving at the Alta Vista bridge, and on other surfaces.
Blue Dasher
Colors seemed a bit more vivid in the slightly reduced light, and if the mosquito can see in color, (or at all), the red dragonfly, or red-veined darter, must appear fearsome in pursuit. Observed sweeping back and forth, this sturdy yet graceful flying creature appears well designed for its mission. The smaller blue dragonfly with black bands, the blue dasher, waits until its prey comes close, then dashes out.
Texas Toad
Perhaps more conspicuous by its relative scarcity this spring and summer season was the Texas Toad. This common native so delighted a young visitor from Sweden in the 1980’s that his Dad, a visiting professor, shortened his lecture to tell the class about the encounter. Every spring in Northaven Park waves of these toads could be seen crossing the road, leaving the creek and headed for backyards and gardens. Experienced Outdoorsmen will attest that these amphibians have suffered a decline in many locales. They are the canaries of the creek, their absence denoting poor water quality, presence of pollutants or contaminants from runoff, or just plain lack of water. We can have an impact on all but the latter.
Only if we continue our efforts to safeguard the creek and keep the water clean, can we expect that our youth will be able to encounter these small marvels of nature around the Creek and the neighborhood.Meanwhile, don’t wait until the next eclipse to have a look for yourself and your young ones.Click on each photo for a larger view.
Vince Punarov, Creek Leader