South Padre Island Part Deux - Besides being a fun- and sun-filled vacation destination, South Padre Island is a very important destination for our feathered migratory or resident avian friends.
SPI - Birding Center on the Laguna Madre
Given the marshy wetlands on the laguna side of SPI, it provides a haven and rich source of nutrients for birds and butterflies resident to the area, as well as those migrating through on their way to winter in Central America or spend the summer in the cooler climes of North America. The center has over 300 feet of boardwalk extending out over the marsh, as well as fresh water features, bird blinds and a 5 story tall viewing tower which provides a great all around view.
Domesticated parrot and Bird Center mascot
Tricolored Heron
During our visit we saw several different types of herons and egrets, roseate spoonbills, grebes, stilts, red winged blackbirds and pelicans. In the waters are tilapia, crabs and 'gators! Actually, there appeared to be a family of alligators with a papa, mama and 6-8, 12 inch long babies. Awww, how cute!
Ideal locale for lurking baby amphibians
The Sea Turtle Rescue Center is just down the road from the Bird and Nature Center. Established by a local resident nicknamed "the turtle lady", this foundation accepts, treats and when possible, releases sea turtles that have been injured or become ill. Mostly run by volunteers, the center is pivotal in caring for these vulnerable critters.
One of their success stories is Allison, a sea turtle which lost 3 limbs from (most likely) a shark attack. After a great deal of collaboration and hard work, this turtle has been fitted with a keel-like prosthetic that helps her navigate around the tank. At night, when no volunteers are around to monitor her, she is kept in a shallower tank, where she can touch bottom and then tilt up to breathe. She is quite the crowd pleaser as she paddles around the big tank with her turtle companions using a single leg and keel. She'll live out her life at the center.
Allison's Story
The center also had two small tanks that served as Turtle Intensive Care. The turtle below had sustained a cracked shell, (likely from a boat propeller strike) was infected and quite weak. The 5 white plastic clamps hold the shell together until it can heal and this turtle is kept in a quiet little tank for recuperation.
Recovering from Shell Surgery
Beach Art
Where there's a beach, there's a lot of sand. And, with the right type of sand, there's a castle to be built. Apparently, an enterprising fellow gives sand castle building lessons, and includes the sculpting tools. For elaborate works like the castle above, in front of a hotel, a final spray with diluted Elmer's glue gives it a nice finish and helps to preserve it for up to a year, outdoors.
Sunset over the Laguna Madre
We're back home now, but there are a few more blog posts to create before the trip is really considered complete.
Barbara & Paul
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