itsoctopuses

[itsoctopuses]

Week 30 Observations

7.23.25

Angel Wings

Caladium bicolor

Observed at a friend’s place on Galveston 7.20.25. This plant is native to Central and South America and has become naturalized it other areas around the world. It thrives in warm, humid climates and is a favored ornamental plant for its color.

It grows from stems under ground called tubers that store nutrients. During cool months the tubers can be dig up and stored in a cool, dry place to avoid rot. Tubers can also be split and as long as an eye is present it will propagate.

These plants are low maintenance, prefers shade but some are partial sun tolerant, and they do very well in plants.

Every part of this plant is poisonous if ingested and can also cause skin or eye irritation from the calcium oxalate crystals that are present.

#angelwings #caladiumbicolor #citizenscience #elephantears #flora #nonnative #poisonous #nature #outdoors #july #july23 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day204

7.24.25

Inland Silverside

Menidia beryllina

Observed on Galveston beach in the surf 7.19.25. This species is native to the Eastern coastal waters and rivers of the US including the Gulf of Mexico. They can thrive in a wide variety of salinities.

At night they move inland away from predators and will move further out during the day to feed.

They also move to fresh or brackish water to spawn which is temperature dependent. Their season starts when the temperature reaches the mid-50s and stops when it reaches 80-90 degrees. They breed often with a young sexual maturation and little care from parents.

They will grow faster if the population density is lower with females growing faster than males, usually. Mortality is also temperature dependent. The hotter it gets the more fish will die while doing well in the winter.

#inlandsilverside #menidiaberyllina #citizenscience #native #fish #nature #outdoors #july #july24 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day205

7.25.25

Southern Two-striped Walkingstick

Anisomorpha buprestoides

Observed 7.19.25 at Galveston Island State Park. They are native to Texas along the Gulf of Mexico coast to South Carolina along the Atlantic coast.

Usually you will see them in pairs with the larger female carrying the smaller males on her back. Unlike other walkingstick species, this female with bury her eggs instead of dropping them from trees.

As a defensive measure they can shoot a noxious fluid from behind their head. They aim it at the threat’s eyes and can accurately hit their mark from 1.5 feet away. This spray can cause pain, burning and light sensitivity that last for days.

#southerntwostripedwalkingstick #anisomorphabuprestoides #citizenscience #native #insect #bug #walkingstick #nature #outdoors #july #july25 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day206

7.26.25

Yellow Bells

Tecoma stans

Observed midtown Galveston 7.20.25. Native range includes Northern Argentina to southwestern US including Texas. It is considered an invasive weed in Africa and Australia.

In warmer climates it can flower year-round and is drought tolerant making it a good pick for landscaping.

The bright flowers attract all kinds of pollinators. The leaves can make an ecofriendly pest repellent in some cultures.

Medicinally, it has been used to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, diabetes, digestive issues, and venomous bites from snakes and scorpion stings. It has different antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are being studied.

#yellowbells #tecomastans #citizenscience #native #yellowtrumpetflower #flora #nature #outdoors #july #july26 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day207

7.27.25

Barn Swallow

Hirundo rustica

Observed 7.14.25 off Stewart Rd in Galveston. They are a cosmopolitan species, found on every continent except for Antarctica.

They will travel thousands of miles during their migration to and from their breeding grounds.

They will build their nests out of mud and grass under bridges, in barns or on your porch near the eaves. They will reuse their nest year after year or build a new on close by. They are territorial and will dive-bomb or swoop down towards the threat.

Much like the Scissortailed Flycatcher, they are excellent fliers using their forked tails for precise maneuvers to catch insects midflight.

There have been recordings of individuals living around or over a decade but usually they just live for a few years.

#barnswallow #hirundorustica #citizenscience #native #cosmopolitan #bird #nature #outdoors #july #july27 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day208

7.28.25

Thinstripe Hermit Crab

Clibanarius vittatus

Observed 7.20.25 in a friend’s aquarium and the beaches of Galveston. Their native range is the western Atlantic Ocean and extends from Brazil up to Virginia, including the Gulf of Mexico.

It gets it name from the stripes on its legs. They will use a variety of shells and have been seen using bottle caps and other trash as home. Unlike other hermit crab species, they are relatively calm when exchanging shells.

They thrive in different habitats due to being able to live outside of the water for extended periods of time.

The feed on decaying and dead organic matter found on the bottom of the water source they live in. They must watch out for fish, larger crabs and birds that will prey on them.

The females can lay up to 180,000 eggs in a years’ time.

#thinstripehermitcrab #clibanariusvittatus #citizenscience #native #hermitcrab #crab #crustacean #nature #outdoors #july #july28 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day209

7.29.25

Southern Flannel Moth

Megalopyge opercularis

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 7.24.25. Native range includes northern South America to southeastern US with it reaching peak abundance in Texas.

As a caterpillar this species is quite venomous with spines hiding under its soft hair. The caterpillar looks like cat’s fur and is referred to as a puss caterpillar. Getting stung by this caterpillar can cause intense pain, redness, swelling and even nausea/vomiting or headaches in more severe cases.

The caterpillars eat leaves from different trees and garden plants. They use their hair to start their cocoon and will detach from the hair as they complete the cocoon.

They can have two seasons where you might see caterpillars, one in early summer and the other fall.

Interestingly, the moth as an adult is also hairy but not venomous! They also don’t eat as a moth and must survive on the reserves it built up as a caterpillar.

#southernflannelmoth #megalopygeopercularis #citizenscience #native #moth #venomous #nature #outdoors #july #july29 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day210

I just need to find a caterpillar now :)

[itsoctopuses]

Week 29 Observations

Leafhopper

Menosoma cinctum

Observed 7.11.25 at Gaveston Island State Park. It has a broad native range that includes Canada down to South America.

They are very small, around 6mm, but have strong legs that help them make large jumps for their size.

They are attracted to lights and can survive in a variety of habitats.

They are in the same family as cicadas.

#leafhopper # Menosomacinctum #citizenscience #insect #nature #outdoors #july #july16 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day197

7.17.25

Globe Amaranth

Gomphrena globosa

Observed downtown Galveston 7.4.25. It is a popular ornamental plant but is native to parts of Central America.

What looks like one flower is actually a bunch of colorful bracts that protect the very small, delicate flowers that are inconspicuous.

They make a good addition to any garden for attracting pollinators, being drought tolerant, and having a long blooming season.

Parts of the plant have been used medicinally to treat coughs, diabetes, and bronchial issues. The flowers can be used in tea for its antioxidant benefits.

#globeamaranth #Gomphrenaglobosa #citizenscience #nonnative #flowers #flora #nature #outdoors #july #july17 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day198

7.18.25

Striped Hyaena

Hyaena hyaena

Observed at the zoo back in February. They are listed as a near-threatened species. Their native range includes parts of Asia, the Middle East, North and East Africa.

They can survive in a variety of habitats and are mainly nocturnal, scavenging at night. Their primary diet consists of animal carcasses though not limited to this. They are vital to the health of their habitat by cleaning up the carrion left behind.

They are territorial and will use the scent from their anal glands to mark their territory. This is a unique behavior to hyenas.

They can form small groups and this is especially true when there is plenty of food around. They are monogamous with both parents raising their cubs.

#stripedhyaena #Hyaenahyaena #citizenscience #hyena #mammal #nonnative #nearthreatenedspecies #conservation #education #july #july18 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day199

7.19.25

Gulf Saltmarsh Snake

Nerodia clarkii clarkii

Observed 7.18.25 at Galveston Island State Park. It is a subspecies found along the Gulf of Mexico from Florida to Texas.

They are adapted to thrive in mudflats, estuaries and marshes with brackish to salt water.

They do most of their hunting at night in shallow waters looking for crabs, fish and shrimp. They get hydration from their food since they don’t have the ability to drink saltwater.

These snakes give birth to live babies instead of laying eggs like other snakes.

They can come in a variety of colors and with or without bands or stripes. They also hide in brush, litter or in crab holes and are rarely seen.

They are losing their habitat to coastal development and pollution and making survival hard on the species.

#gulfsaltmarshsnake #Nerodiaclarkiiclarkii #citizenscience #native #saltmarshsnake #snake #reptile #nature #outdoors #july #july19 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day200

200 species identified this year 🥳

7.20.25

Blood Parrot Cichlid

Amphilophus citrinellus × Vieja melanurus

Observed in a friend’s aquarium 7.20.25. They are a man made breed of fish that were first bred in 1986 in Taiwan.

There is a bit of controversy over the cross breeding that may cause anatomical abnormalities. They can live 10-15 years.

They can be territorial especially when it’s breeding time but generally they have a calm, sweet temperament. They will even recognize their owners and swim up to the glass to greet them.

They do well with other cichlid species of the same size but smaller fish may be seen as food. They have teeth deep in their throats that are used to crush food.

#bloodparrotcichlid #Amphilophuscitrinellus×Viejamelanurus #citizenscience #nonnative #fish #aquarium #nature #july #july20 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day201

7.21.25

Brown-headed Cowbird

Molothrus ater

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 6.29.25. This is another species that can be found year-round here and the eastern US. If they migrate, it is short distances, and to the west and northwest US.

This species is the most common “brood parasite” in North America. The females will use all their energy on making eggs instead of building nests. Instead, they will mate multiple times and use other species’ nests to lay dozens of eggs over a single breeding season.

Through genetic research it has been found that over 220 different species of birds have had their nests hijacked by cowbirds. Cowbird chicks are usually the first to hatch which means they are first to consume resources meant for the host’s chicks. They’ve even been known to throw out or smother the eggs of the host.

#BrownheadedCowbird #Molothrusater #citizenscience #native #bird #nature #outdoors #july #july21 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day202

7.22.25

Atlantic Ghost Crab

Ocypode quadrata

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 7.19.25. Native to the area and is not consider a food source for people.

These crabs are mostly nocturnal but will come out during the day.

They can move as fast as 10 mph across the sand.

They can live on land and in water. They burrow into the sand for safety and protection from extreme weather conditions. These burrows can be up to 4 ft deep!

They have gills that help them breathe underwater. When they’re on land they survive by wicking water up from the damp sand with little hairs on their legs.

They are scavengers, eating a variety of things that include mole crabs, coquina clams, and even sea turtle eggs and hatchlings!

They communicate through sound by banging their claws on the sand or rubbing their legs together creating a “bubbling sound”.

During mating season the males settle disputes by using ritualistic displays instead of aggressive confrontations.

#atlanticghostcrab #ocypodequadrata #citizenscience #ghostcrab #crustacean #invert #nature #outdoors #july #july22 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day203

[itsoctopuses]

Week 28 Observations

7.9.25

Squirrel Tree Frog

Hyla squirella

Observed 6.27.25 at Galveston Island State Park. They are found in the southeastern US, from Virginia to Texas.

When it rains or after a storm they make a squirrel-like “rain call”. They may come out in the rain to forage but do most of their hunting for insects at night. They are preyed upon by fish and other aquatic creatures as tadpoles and become food for birds, snakes, and small mammals as adults. This makes them critical for the balance of the ecosystem they’re found in.

After rainstorms they will breed in shallow waters in the summer months. The tadpoles will consume both organic and inorganic matter from the environment by suspension feeding.

They can be brown, green, or a mix of both and can have spots or a stripe along the jaw.

Their sticky toe pads allow them to grip surfaces, making them great climbers.

#squirreltreefrog #hylasquirella #citizenscience #native #amphibian #treefrog #nature #outdoors #july #july9 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day190

7.10.25

Common Gallinule

Gallinula galeata

Observed the baby 7.10.25 off Stewart Rd by the state park and the adults at Lafitte’s Cove back in April. They are a medium sized marsh bird that can be found here year round.

Their long toes enable them to walk on floating vegetation or soft mud without needing webbed feet. The chicks also have spurs on their wings to help them climb like getting back into the nest or cling to vegetation.

They make their nests in dense vegetation like cattails and rushes usually building a ramp to the water.

They eat a variety of food including aquatic plants, insects, snails and seeds.

They have different calls and will hiss when threatened. The chicks may even cling to the mother when escaping danger.

#commongallinule #Gallinulagaleata #citizenscience #native #marshbird #baby #gallinule #bird #nature #outdoors #july #july10 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day191

7.11.25

Rattlebush

Sesbania drummondii

Observed in Galveston Island State Park and along Stewart Rd 7.11.25. It is a shrubby perennial native to the area and to the southeastern states of the US. It is commonly found in disturbed areas, ditches, and marsh edges.

Each leaf is made up of as many as 60 leaflets. The flowers hang down in a cluster called a raceme and are a rich, orange yellow. Seed pods start to grow after the flowers. They are four sided with wings and within the pods the seeds are separated by thin walls. When the pod dries out the seeds make a rattling noise when the wind blows.

They flower from May to October and keep the pods until winter when the plant dies back.

Another name for this plant is poisonbean because the seeds have a toxin called sesbanimide. The leaves and flowers don’t taste good which helps animals learn to avoid this plant and the poisonous seeds.

#rattlebush #sesbaniadrummondii #citizenscience #native #perennial #flora #poisonous #seeds #nature #outdoors #july #july11 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day192

7.12.25

Roseate Skimmer

Orthemis ferruginea

Observed at Nature Center in Galveston Island State Park 7.12.25. Though Texas is not specifically mentioned in its native range, it is common throughout the Americas.

Males are a vibrant pink with a red abdomen while females are orange-brown. I think this could be an immature male because females are more brown in color.

Males are aggressively territorial when other males enter their chosen area. This species feed on a variety of insects including pests like mosquitos, catching them in midair. Their larvae will feed on small aquatic organisms including fish and insects.

They are excellent fliers and are capable of maneuvers that resembles how a helicopter moves. They mate while flying and it takes about 10 seconds. When females are ready to drop her eggs, the male with follow and protect her from other males or predators. She flicks the eggs with water droplets along a shoreline. The nymphs are found at the bottom of the body of water in the silt.

#roseateskimmer #orthemisferruginea #citizenscience #native #insect #nature #outdoors #july #july12 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day193

7.13.25

Marsh Fleabane

Pluchea odorata

Observed 7.13.25 close to the state park on Stewart Rd. It is commonly found in areas that are always moist like coastal marshes. It ranges from South America all the way to New England along the coast.

This native wildflower help prevents erosion by stabilizing the soil which supports the wetlands ecosystem. The underground stems (rhizomes) produce new plants, and they may also store nutrients that help the plant survive unfavorable conditions. Under the right conditions the plant, though native, can become invasive in areas with more moisture.

The flowers attract a wild range of pollinators. The plant also has a strong camphor-like smell that helps identify it from other similar plants. It has puffy seeds that the wind disperses helping it spread to other suitable habitats.

It has been studied for medicinal properties that treat stomach cramps, colds, coughs, arthritis and maybe even for anti-cancer effects.

#marshfleabane #plucheaodorata #citizenscience #native #wildflower #flora #nature #outdoors #july #july13 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day194

7.14.25

Black Witch Moth

Ascalapha odorata

Observed 7.13.25 at Galveston Island State Park. Native range is from Brazil to southern US.

It is considered the largest insect in the continental US with females having a wingspan of almost 7 inches and males about 5 inches.

They are strong migratory fliers, traveling from their southern breeding grounds northward to Canada.

It is often mistaken for a bat with its size and color along with it being nocturnal. I usually see them up high on porch ceilings, resting during the day.

As adults they feed on overripe fruit and tree sap while caterpillars feed on leaves.

This moth also has history steeped in superstitions in many cultures. In the Bahamas it is seen as a recently departed loved one coming to say a final goodbye or that it brings good luck and riches. In parts of Mexico and the Caribbean it is associated with bad luck and death.

#blackwitchmoth #Ascalaphaodorata #citizenscience #native #insect #moth #nature #outdoors #july #july14 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day195

7.15.25

Tricolored Heron

Egretta tricolor

Observed 7.11.25 in Galveston Island State Park. This widespread coastal species is commonly found in the Galveston area in and around the shallow waters of the marshes and wetlands.

They stalk their prey in both shallow and deep waters and will use their wings to create a canopy that attracts fish. Unlike other herons, tricolored herons are active hunters that will wade, run, and can turn sharply to catch fish. Though they nest in colonies they forage alone. Sometimes they will follow other birds and snatch up fish that they stirred up.

Males will put on a show like fluffing their neck feathers while bowing, stretching their neck and circling the nest site, all to attract a female. As tricolored herons get older, they will snap and lunge at the parents when they bring food to them. The parents will bow to greet the young to appease them.

#tricoloredheron #egrettatricolor #citizenscience #native #bird #heron #nature #outdoors #july #july15 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day196

[itsoctopuses]

Week 27 Observations

7.2.25

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

Tyrannus forficatus

Observed 6.29.25 at Galveston Island State Park. They migrate north from Central America & Mexico to Texas and a few other states to breed each spring and summer. Like other species in this family, the scissor-tailed flycatcher might travel out of their normal breeding grounds as they migrate to and from their wintering grounds.

It is one of only two species in the genus Tyrannus that has a very long, dramatic tail, the other being the fork-tailed flycatcher. Like others in this genus, they are fast and precise flyers, catching insects in mid-air. Sometimes they may feed on berries from mulberry or hackberry trees.

They will roost near towns in large trees. They use different human products in their nests. Items such as carpet fuzz, paper, cigarette filters, string and cloth are just a few examples of what has been found in their nests.

#ScissortailedFlycatcher #Tyrannusforficatus #citizenscience #native #bird #nature #outdoors #july #july2 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day183

7.3.25

Great Egret

Ardea alba

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 7.3.25. It is commonly found year-round in this area.

They are usually found wading in coastal marshes or ponds searching for food. Their typical prey is fish but they will also hunt amphibians and small mammals. Sometimes they will swim or hover to catch prey. They are slow flyers with only 2 wingbeats per second and a cruising speed about 25 mph.

They are often the first species to show up to nest and their appearance can induce nesting among other species in the nesting colony. It is common for the larger chicks to kill smaller siblings which is often brought on due to poor breeding conditions.

In the late 19th century, these egrets and other species were hunted nearly to extinction for hat feathers. The National Audubon Society was founded to protect birds from such a terrible fate. Audubon uses the Great Egret as its symbol.

#greategret #Ardeaalba #citizenscience #native #bird #egret #nature #outdoors #july #july3 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day184

7.4.25

Spicebush Swallowtail

Papilio troilus

Observed downtown Galveston on a Peacock Flower 7.4.25. They are native to the Eastern half of North America including central and east Texas.

Unlike, other swallowtail species, they prefer to fly closer to the ground and will keep fluttering their wings while getting nectar (I can verify this to be true 🥴).

The caterpillars can be quite picky and only eat plants from the Lauraceae family that include plants such as cinnamon, avocado, sassafras and spicebush. They are the only species to eat and grow so well on this diet.

Due to their dark wings and bodies they are able to control their temperature and keep feeding when it’s cooler out.

They frequently gather in groups called a puddling when looking for a mate, food or water. They will puddle on banks of water and drink moisture from the sand or soil.

Both sexes, as both caterpillars and butterflies, use mimicry to protect themselves from predators. Caterpillars will either look like brown bird poo or a green snake! Butterflies look similar to less palatable or toxic species.

#spicebushswallowtail #Papiliotroilus #citizenscience #native #butterfly #insect #nature #outdoors #july #july4 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day185

7.5.25

Heart-leaf Ice Plant

Mesembryanthemum cordifolium

Observed downtown Galveston 7.4.25. Introduced from South Africa with invasive tendencies under the right conditions.

The flowers only open on sunny days and close on cloudy days and at night.

It is a drought tolerant succulent that survives long stretches without water by storing it in their fleshy leaves.

It grows quickly in moist conditions and can control erosion as ground cover but it can become a problem, taking resources from native species.

In South Africa, it has been used medicinally for its anti inflammatory properties. The leaves and flowers are also edible with the leaves possibly tasting like a sour, green apple.

#heartleaficeplant #Mesembryanthemumcordifolium #citizenscience #nonnative #succulents #nature #outdoors #july #july5 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day186

7.6.25

Mottled Duck

Anas fulvigula

Observed 7.3.25 at Galveston Island State Park. They are native to the area year round and have large populations in the marshes of Galveston Bay and Sabine Lake. There are two subspecies that usually stick to their limited ranges. One is the Florida Mottled Duck (A.f. maculosa) and the other being the Gulf Coast Mottled Duck (A.f. maculosa). They don’t migrate and are one of the most banded common species along the Gulf of Mexico coast.

They are so closely related to Mexican ducks, American Black Ducks and Mallards that they hybridize with them. This, among other factors, is contributing to their numbers decreasing.

They are a dabbling duck meaning they tip forward in shallow water to find food as opposed to other species that dive completely underwater.

#mottledduck #Anasfulvigula #citizenscience #native #waterfowl #duck #nature #outdoors #july #july6 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day187

7.7.25

Common Sunflower

Helianthus annuus

Observed 6.19.25 in Cleburne. It is native to the area with a range including central to westernmost North America. Sunflowers were introduced to Europe in the 1500s.

They can clean up contaminated soil by absorbing toxins.

The entire plant, not just the seeds, is edible. Native America tribes have use sunflowers to help with chest pain.

They are in the same family as artichokes, lettuce and daisies.

They track the suns movement which is call heliotropism.

The center disc where the seeds form actually can hold around 2000 tiny flowers called florets. These florets can either self pollinate or take pollen from the wind or pollinators.

#commonsunflower #Helianthusannuus #native #sunflower #flora #nature #outdoors #july #july7 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day188

7.8.25

Madagascar Periwinkle

Catharanthus roseus

Observed 7.4.25 downtown Galveston and also at home. It was introduced to areas outside of Madagascar, including Texas, and does better in tropical and subtropical regions. It is endemic to Madagascar and is not found anywhere else in the wild! Sadly, it is on the endangered species list in the wild making conservation of the species more important.

It has been found to have strong medicinal properties used throughout history to treat various ailments including some cancers. Must be careful because some of the plant’s components can also be toxic.

#madagascarperiwinkle #Catharanthusroseus #citizenscience #introduced #nonnative #flower #tropical #nature #outdoors #july #july8 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day189

[itsoctopuses]

Week 26 observations

6.25.25

Laughing Gull

Leucophaeus atricilla

Observed most days on Galveston Island. They are native to the area and are a common sight year round. Populations live from North America to South America with so vagrant populations in Europe. Northernmost groups will migrate south for the winter.

They are usually active during the day but during breeding season will also be active at night, busy foraging. They are susceptible to toxins and pollutants since they have a wide range of feeding habitats.

They are monogamous and will stay with the same mate for several breeding seasons. They both build the nest and incubate the eggs. The female will lay a clutch of 2-4 eggs and once the eggs hatch the adults will remove the shells from the nest.

#laughinggull #Leucophaeusatricilla #citizenscience #native #gull #bird #nature #outdoors #june #june25 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day176

6.26.25

Metallic Bluish-green Cuckoo Wasp

Chrysis angolensis

Observed 6.26.25 at Galveston Island State Park. They are not native but are found worldwide excluding Antarctica. They are invasive but not considered pests since they contribute with pollination.

They are kleptoparasitic meaning they lay their eggs in the nest of a different species of wasp or bee. The cuckoo wasp larvae will eat the other wasp larvae, stored food and eggs. They have also adapted to this by having a hard exoskeleton that protects them from the host insect and some can even mimic the odor of the host insect to better blend in.

The striking color comes from structural coloration that is similar to the indigo bunting in that it has microscopic structures that refract light instead of having pigment.

#metallicbluishgreencuckoowasp #Chrysisangolensis #citizenscience #nonnative #invasive #cosmopolitan #insect #wasp #nature #outdoors #june #june26 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day177

6.27.25

Chestnut Bolete

Gyroporus castaneus

Observed 6.22.25 at Galveston Island State Park. It is native to Europe and the Eastern half of North America, including Texas, but is typically not going to be found on Galveston. It prefers oak trees to thrive and I did find this one under some of the live oaks at the park.

I didn’t get a spore sample on this one but they will leave a pale yellow print.

As it matures the stem becomes hollow and this mushroom does not bruise.

It is edible but again, I’m a novice so I’m not trying it in case I incorrectly identified it.

#chestnutbolete #Gyroporuscastaneus #citizenscience #native #mushroom #fungus #nature #outdoors #june #june27 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day178

6.29.25

Whitemouth Dayflower

Commelina erecta

Observed 6.20.25 in my sister’s yard in Cleburne. It is native to Africa, Western Asia, South and North America including Texas. The plant can survive in various habitats and the strong root system can help with soil erosion control.

The flowers usually only live for a few hours in the morning, hence the name. The bright blue of the flowers attracts pollinators which supports local biodiversity.

The young shoots or leaves, seeds and flowers are edible but it’s always good to use caution. It has the potential use medicinally as well and culinary.

#whitemouthdayflower #Commelinaerecta #citizenscience #native #wildflower #dayflower #nature #outdoors #june #june29 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day180

6.30.25

Green-striped Grasshopper

Chortophaga viridifasciata

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 6.12.25. The native range is from Canada to Costa Rica. They prefer grassy areas that are sunny yet moist. They mainly feed on the grass or forbs or flowering plant.

They can be green (usually female) or brown (usually male) and this is called color polymorphism.

They are one of the first grasshopper species to emerge in the spring from being eggs or larvae that overwintered.

The males are slightly smaller than the females. Females will have multiple broods per year, this was found to happen in the Southeastern US.

#Greenstripedgrasshopper #Chortophagaviridifasciata #citizenscience #native #grasshopper #insect #nature #outdoors #june #june30 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day181

7.1.25

Buffalograss

Bouteloua dactyloides

Observed in my parent’s backyard in Cleburne 6.19.25. Its native range extends from central Canada and down to Mexico and all through the central plains states of the US.

It gets its name, Buffalograss, from being the primary food source for buffalo in the past.

It is a drought tolerant grass that grows in the warm seasons. The root go deep which help it get through long periods without water. Those deep roots also help prevent soil erosion.

The male and female flowers grow on separate plants. The female flowers are hidden down low in the leaves and the male flowers stand out above and look like combs (pictured on the right).

#buffalograss #Boutelouadactyloides #citizenscience #native #grass #flora #nature #outdoors #july #july1 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day182

[itsoctopuses]

Week 25 Observations

6.18.25

Gray Hairstreak

Strymon melinus

Observed 6.13.25 at Galveston Island State Park. It is the most common native butterfly found across North America. It also goes south into Central America and South America. Adults thrive in all kinds of habitats from gardens to open woodlands and from 9,000 ft to sea level. They pollinate various plants while getting nectar.

Larvae can be found on over 30 plant families as hosts. Legumes and mallows are favorites.

Their hindwing tails twitch independently when the butterfly is at rest and it’s thought to be a defense mechanism.

#grayhairstreak #strymonmelinus #citizenscience #native #butterfly #pollinator #nature #outdoors #june #june18 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day169

6.19.25

Willet

Tringa semipalmata

Observed on Galveston Island most days on both the bay side and ocean side. They are a native species to the area.

There are two subspecies; the western willet breed in inland freshwater marshes and the eastern willet breed in saltwater marshes.

They are active during the day and night often using moonlight and/or tides to forage for crustaceans, insects, mollusks and more.

They nest in a similar way to killdeer with both male and female working together to build the nest. They will even act injured to lure predators away from the nest like a killdeer.

#willet #Tringasemipalmata #citizenscience #native #shorebird #nature #outdoors #june #june19 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day170

6.20.25

Texas Paintbrush

Castilleja indivisa

Observed 6.19.25 in Burleson Texas. Such a surprise coming across my favorite wildflower in the middle of June! They are native to Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana. There are several species of Indian Paintbrushes in different regions.

It is a hemiparasitic plant meaning that not only does it photosynthesize but its roots can tap into the roots of other plants and absorb water and nutrients from them. They also absorb and remove selenium in the soil. In places with higher levels of selenium the plant can become toxic.

The plant has several greenish-white flowers that are nestled in the showy red/orange/coral bracts. They are attractive to pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies. They have seed capsules that will split open and small seeds are scattered by the wind.

Native Americans use the plant in medicinal teas, hair oil, and for dye. There is a legend that a Native American boy painted the sunset and then the paintbrushes turned into plants.

#texaspaintbrush #Castillejaindivisa #citizenscience #indianpaintbrush #wildflowers #native #nature #outdoors #june #june20 #picoftheday #project365 #day171

6.21.25

White Leghorn Chicken

Gallus gallus domesticus

Observed at my friend’s house in Cleburne. All domestic chickens have the same scientific name but can have different characteristics. White Leghorns originated from the Tuscan area of Italy. They were first exported to the US about 1828.

White Leghorns are prolific egg layers and are used the most commercially because of it. They can start laying white eggs around 17-20 weeks old, earlier than other breeds. The hens don’t usually sit on the eggs to hatch them which is called being broody.

White is the most common color of leghorn but they are come in black, brown and buff. Roosters have a single red comb on top as well as wattles. They also have white earlobes.

They can fly and are able to clear 10 ft fences! When they are able to roam free they are good at foraging which can help with feed costs. They can become bored in small spaces, not liking confinement.

They can handle a range of climates though others are better suited for the cold.

#whiteleghornchicken #Gallusgallusdomesticus #citizenscience #domesticchicken #leghorn #chickens #rooster #hen #nature #outdoors #june #june21 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day172

6.22.25

Texas red-staining Boleta

Pulchroboletus rubricitrinus

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 6.22.25. It is a native mushroom that is usually seen by oak and pine trees. It can form a symbiotic relationship, mycorrhizal association, with the trees enhancing nutrient absorption.

The bright coloration may be used to attract insects to help with spore dispersal.

It is considered nontoxic but not a tasty treat and can upset stomachs. It bruises to a blue-green hue when cut or handled. The acidic taste and bruising can help identify it. (I am no expert so I am not tasting the mushrooms I find)

#texasredstainingboleta #Pulchroboletusrubricitrinus #citizenscience #boleta #mushroom #fungus #native #nature #outdoors #june #june22 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day173

6.23.25

Blue Button

Porpita porpita

Observed on Galveston beach 6.23.25. It is normally found floating in subtropical and tropical oceans as well as the Gulf of Mexico though sometimes the currents or winds will blow them ashore.

Though it looks like a jellyfish it is actually a colony of hydroids, individuals working as one. They also have different purposes such as reproduction, feeding and protection to name a few. The colony are the branches that look like tentacles and at the end of each branch is a knob of stinging cells.

The float is the center disc with the mouth/waste exit on the underside of it. The float is gaseous which keeps it from sinking into the water column like a jellyfish.

#bluebutton #Porpitaporpita #citizenscience #native #hydroid #seacreature #lookdonttouch #nature #outdoors #june #june23 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day174

6.24.25

Eastern Kingbird

Tyrannus tyrannus

Observed 4.24.25 & 6.22.25 at Galveston Island State Park. Their native breeding range is most of North America (yes those are babies) and they migrate to South America for the winter.

During breeding season they will defend their nest and territory quite aggressively even from larger birds like hawks. Luckily, I was not harmed in the making of this post! 😅

They become social once breeding season is over and they will migrate in flocks that can have thousands of birds. They also switch out their eating habits going from mostly insects during breeding season to fruit the rest of the year.

They are in the flycatcher family which means they are excellent flyers and rarely walk or hop. They will perch in trees and catch their food on the fly.

#easternkingbird #Tyrannustyrannus #citizenscience #native #bird #nest #babies #nature #outdoors #june #june24 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day175

[itsoctopuses]

Week 24 Observations

6.11.25

Beautiful Clown Weevil

Eudiagogus pulcher

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 6.11.25. They are native to North America, are harmless to humans and are not known to be destructive.

They spend their life on and around sesbania plants such as the bigpod sesbania I found this guy on. The adults feed on the leaves and their larvae pupate in the soil by the roots of this plant.

Adults can fly but rarely do.

Females mate before going into a winter resting stage or diapause and spend this time under the bark of trees.

#beautifulclownweevil #Eudiagoguspulcher #citizenscience #native #insect #june #june11 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day162

6.12.25

Silvery Bryum

Bryum argenteum

Observed 6.11.25 at Galveston Island State Park. It’s a native moss that is also found on almost all continents.

Unlike most plants it does not have roots but rhizoids or thread like structures anchoring it to a surface.

It does not create and release pollen but can spread but pieces breaking off and starting new colonies.

It gets its name from the upper parts of the leaves lacking chlorophyll which help protect photosynthetic cells deeper in the leaves from harsh sunlight. It can go dormant under unfavorable conditions such as pollution or drought and then resume growth once conditions improve.

#silverybryum #Bryumargenteum #citizenscience #native #cosmopolitan #moss #nature #outdoors #june #june12 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day163

6.13.25

Common Lantana

Lantana camara

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 6.11.25. It originates from South and Central America but has naturalized in many places including Galveston. It is also considered invasive here, outcompeting native lantana for resources.

The plant is poisonous to animals especially livestock and the berries are even more so when unripe.

The flowers change from a creamy yellow to pink as the plant matures. They are aromatic as well. Good source of nectar for butterflies, bees and hummingbirds.

#commonlantana #Lantanacamara #citizenscience #lantana #nonnative #invasive #flora #nature #outdoors #june #june13 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day164

6.14.25

Great Blue Heron

Ardea herodias

Observed at Galveston Island State park and along the roadside 6.13.25. This species is native to Galveston. There are migratory populations but we get some that breed here as well.

They usually hunt for food alone but travel in small flocks and can create large breeding colonies. They eat a variety of animals but primarily feed on fish. They have excellent night vision so they can hunt at night.

When trying to attract a mate the males will present a stick to a females and may even do a dance.

They have feathers on their chest that fray into powder that protects them from slime and helps clean their feathers.

#greatblueheron #Ardeaherodias #citizenscience #native #bird #nature #outdoors #heron #june #june14 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day165

6.15.25

Hispid cotton rat

Sigmodon hispidus

Observed in Galveston Island State Park 6.15.25. It is native to Galveston and there is a study that shows Galveston County is a contacted zone for different genetic lineages of this species.

They are active year round and during both night and day. They mainly feed on grass and flowering plants but will also eat insects and seeds. They use dense vegetation for cover and have thick, stiff fur to protect themselves from sharp grasses and thorns.

They are reproductively prolific being able to have several litters year round with 5-7 babies each time. This is most likely because they only live about 6 months. They also play a vital role in their ecosystem as prey for snakes and birds.

#hispidcottonrat #Sigmodonhispidus #citizenscience #cottonrat #native #mammal #nature #outdoors #june #june15 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day166

A Great Blue Heron trying to eat a Hispid Cotton Rat. Circle of life in action!

6.16.25

Liriope

Liriope muscari

Observed at home 6.15.25. Native to East Asia and is not considered invasive here but has the potential to grow aggressively under the right conditions.

Though it looks like grass and can be used as ground cover it is actually in the asparagus family.

It stores water with its fleshy, tuber-like roots, helping it through periods of drought and making it a low maintenance plant.

It is good for people with cats because it is a safe plant for them to be around.

#liriope #Liriopemuscari #citizenscience #nonnative #ornamentalplants #flora #nature #outdoors #june #june16 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day167

6.17.25

Tievine

Ipomoea cordatotriloba

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 5.21.25 and most days after. A native morning glory species with a range from Southeastern US down to South America.

It is a purple flowered perennial, that can live more than 2 years. It blooms from spring to fall and is heat and cold tolerant and thrives in fun sun.

It attracts hummingbirds, larger butterflies and bees for its nectar. It is a host plant for variegated fritillary butterfly larvae.

It self seeds which can get out of hand causing it to become invasive.

It’s a good indoor plant because its leaves are able to help remove pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene from the air.

#tievine #Ipomoeacordatotriloba #citizenscience #native #perennial #morningglory #nature #outdoors #june #june17 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day168

[itsoctopuses]

Week 23 Observations

6.4.25

American Germander

Teucrium canadense

Observed at Galveston Island State Park and all along the roadside 6.4.25. It is native to North America and most of Canada.

It is a perennial herb in the mint family used by Native Americans for teas. It is historically used to dress wounds, promote sweating and induce urination.

The flowers are attractive to pollinators like bees, other insects and hummingbirds. The bitter tasting leaves are a turn off for deer making it a great additive to any native garden.

#americangermander #Teucriumcanadense #citizenscience #native #wildflowers #perennial #herb #nature #outdoors #june #june4 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day155

6.5.25

Dimorphic Jumping Spider

Maevia inclemens

Observed 6.5.25 at Galveston Island State Park on the window of the booth in safely inside of. Its native range includes eastern Canada, eastern and mid-western US.

It was maybe 6mm huge and my heart rate was way up but I believe this to be a male because of the fluffy palps (the extra appendages by the mouth). It is one of the two morphs the males of this species has, which is rare in zoology. The tufted morph has a black body and palps with pale legs while the gray morph has black and white stripes all over and orange palps. From what I can tell it might be a gray morph male. Each morph behaves differently and was at one time thought to be two different species.

Their eyesight is about 10x as acute as a dragonfly’s, using this to find food and mates or avoid predators.

It only took 156 days but I did it!

#dimorphicjumpingspider #maeviainclemens #citizenscience #spider #native #nature #outdoors #june #june5 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day156

6.6.25

Broadleaf Cattail

Typha latifolia

Observed along Stewart Rd and in Galveston Island State Park 6.6.25. It is native to the area and thrives in marshy areas. They are also considered invasive because of their aggressive growth, usually forming dense clumps of monocultures that negatively impact biodiversity.

Throughout the year it offers food from root sprouts, young shoot and flower spikes.

The fluffy seeds make a great fire starter!

Medicinally, the pollen has been used as a diuretic and to stop bleeding. Native Americans have used the leaves for constructing mats and roofs.

#broadleafcattail #Typhalatifolia #citizenscience #native #invasive #cattails #flora #nature #outdoors #june #june6 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day157

6.7.25

Red-eared Slider

Trachemys scripta elegans

The two on the left were observed in March of 2022 in Cleburne but the one on the right was one I moved from the road this morning on Galveston. Their native range is southern US and Northern Mexico.

They are omnivores, eating both plants and animals, though adults eat more plants than anything. They don’t have teeth but a beak like structure to consume food.

They have poor hearing but are sensitive to vibrations which is one way they communicate. They also use eye rolls and touching. Their vision is excellent allowing them to see red, green, blue, violet and ultraviolet light.

Instead of hibernating, they brumate meaning they will have brief times of activity for food or air.

#redearedslider #trachemysscriptaelegans #citizenscience #native #freshwater #turtle #terrapin #reptile #nature #outdoors #june #june7 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day158

6.8.25

Arkansas Lazy Daisy

Aphanostephus skirrhobasis

Observed at home on Galveston 6.8.25. Galveston is in its native range and it blooms from March to November. The name comes from the flowers not opening until midday.

The plant prefers sandy soils in fields, along roadsides and prairies.

Pollinators are attracted to the flowers. The leaves and flowers are edible and are enjoyed by cattle and deer.

They can readily reproduce in gardens by self seeding.

#arkansaslazydaisy #Aphanostephusskirrhobasis #citizenscience #native #wildflowers #nature #outdoors #june #june8 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day159

6.9.25

White Mulberry

Morus alba

Observed at home, right off my balcony, in Galveston. It is a nonnative species from China and is considered invasive, outcompeting native species such as red mulberry. It is known to hybridize with red mulberry and can even transmit diseases to it.

Silkworms depend on white mulberry leaves as a food source making it crucial for the silk industry.

The leaves and bark have been used medicinally to treat sore throats, eye infections and colds.

The berries are edible and can be consumed fresh or made into jams, pies and other goods.

The bark is flexible and has been used to make tennis and badminton rackets.

The white male flowers can release pollen at half the speed of sound via a special mechanism!

#whitemulberry #Morusalba #citizenscience #invasive #nonnative #tree #flora #nature #outdoors #june #june9 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day160

6.10.25

Meadow Mushroom

Agaricus campestris

Observed 6.7.25 at home on Galveston. It has a widespread native range including areas in Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and North America.

It usually fruits in the spring and fall and sometimes in warmer months. Definitely warmer here.

Wild meadow mushrooms are edible and have flavor similar to the cultivated button mushroom. I won’t be sampling any mushrooms until I am more confident in my mushroom identification because they can resemble poisonous species!!

They usually show up after rains and spring up in grassy areas such as lawns. They are saprophytic meaning they get their nutrients from decaying grass or other dead organic matter. They also play a crucial role in nutrient cycling with the way they absorb and release nutrients.

#meadowmushroom #Agaricuscampestris #citizenscience #native #mushroom #fungus #edible #nature #outdoors #june #june10 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day161

[itsoctopuses]

Week 22 Observations

5.28.25

Resh Cicada

Megatibicen resh

Observed at Galveston Island State Park (9.27.24, 3.28.25, 5.28.25). It is native to the area and most of North America. It is also endemic (only found here) to North America.

The males produce songs that can be louder than lawnmowers with their tymbals, a membrane that forms part of their sound producing organ.

They have a pattern on their back, or dorsal side, that camouflages them in their tree habitats.

They molt their exoskeletons multiple times during their life cycle. Unlike periodical cicadas that emerge every 13 or 17 years the resh cicadas emerge every year.

They are edible and considered a delicacy in some cultures.

Their wings are naturally anti microbial and waterproof.

#reshcicada #megatibicenresh #citizenscience #cicada #native #endemic #insect #nature #outdoors #may #may28 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day148

5.29.25

Peacock Flower

Caesalpinia pulcherrima

Observed 5.23.25 on Galveston. It is a nonnative-noninvasive tropical flower that originates from the tropical Americas including the West Indies.

It can thrive in various climates especially subtropical and tropical and can be drought tolerant. It can grow up to 20 feet and can be shaped into shrubs or trees.

In some cultures it has been used for medicinal purposes with the fruits being edible but the seeds are toxic to animals including cats and dogs.

It is a great attractor to pollinators and the flowers can be used to make natural fabric dyes.

#peacockflower #Caesalpiniapulcherrima #citizenscience #nonnative #noninvasive #tropical #flower #nature #outdoors #may #may29 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day149

5.30.25

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

Observed 5.17.25 at Galveston Island State Park. They are nonnative migrants that pass through the area to & from their northern breeding grounds and wintering grounds in South America and Mexico. They migrate further south during the winter than most North American ducks.

They can be found in shallow bodies of water such as small wetlands, flooded fields, coastal marshes and mudflats. They feed on green plants, seeds and aquatic invertebrates.

They are social animals, seen flying together in flocks. They nest in grass and are known to renest if their first nest is lost early in the season.

There was a banded male that was at least 23 years old.

#bluewingedteal #Spatuladiscors #citizenscience #nonnative #duck #nature #outdoors #may #may30 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day150

5.31.25

Golden Ball Cactus

Parodia lenninghausii

Observed at Galveston Island State Park, everyday. He’s the office cactus, Timmothee 🤣 This species originates from Rio Grande do Sul province in southern Brazil.

The golden spines are soft to the touch. The cactus can produce big, yellow flowers once it reaches maturity and is in optimal conditions. It thrives in soil with good drainage and watered sparingly. It can tolerate cold temps for a little while but doesn’t do well with frost.

#goldenballcactus #Parodialenninghausii #citizenscience #cactus #nonnative #flora #nature #outdoors #may #may31 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day151

6.1.25

Catchfly Prairie Gentian

Eustoma exaltatum

Observed along Stewart Road on Galveston 6.1.25. It is an annual herb that is native to the area and all along coastal prairies and marshes in Southern US and Mexico. Though it is often found in moist areas it is not limited to them.

It can grow up to 3 feet high and has a long tap root that reaches deep in the soil for water.

“Catchfly” refers to its sticky nature and that it attracts and traps insects.

Some believe it symbolizes resilience, love and romance.

#catchflyprairiegentian #Eustomaexaltatum #citizenscience #native #wildflower #nature #outdoors #june #june1 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day152

6.2.25

American Redstart

Setophaga ruticilla

Observed 5.11.25 at Lafitte’s Cove on Galveston. They are nonnative migrants that come through during spring and fall migrations. They winter in parts of South America, Central America and Mexico and Breed in Southern Canada and Northern and Eastern US.

They are mostly monogamous but can sometimes have two mates each with their own territory. They are very territorial, defending with in-flight posturing and chasing.

They hunt for insects by using a technique called “flashing” that uses their bright patches of feathers to scare insects, making them easier to catch.

#americanredstart #Setophagaruticilla #citizenscience #nonnative #migrants #wild #bird #june #june2 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day153

6.3.25

Green-spored Parasol

Chlorophyllum molybdites

Observed near 61st Street on Galveston. It is native to the area and most of North America. It thrives in grassy areas such as lawns and parks.

Also known as the false parasol, this poisonous mushroom is often confused with the edible parasol mushroom, making it the most common cause of mushroom poisoning in North America. The toxin, Molybdophyllysin, causes gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting and diarrhea.

The green spores are a key characteristic to differentiate from the edible parasol mushroom that has creamy white spores.

#greensporedparasol #Chlorophyllummolybdites #citizenscience #falseparasol #poisonous #native #mushroom #fungus #nature #outdoors #june #june3 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day154

[itsoctopuses]

Week 21 Observations

5.21.25

Herb-of-Grace

Bacopa monnieri

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 5.21.25. It is a native creeping herb perennial that thrives in wetland habitats.

It has a history of being used in Ayurvedic, traditional Hindu medicine, to help improve cognitive function and memory. It is also thought to have anti stress and anti inflammatory properties. Scientific research is being done to explore all of its potential benefits.

#herbofgrace #bacopamonnieri #citizenscience #native #perennial #herb #flora #nature #outdoors #may #may21 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day141

5.22.25

Snowy Egret

Egretta thula

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 5.16.25. They are native to the area and all along the coast.

They use many type of techniques when foraging for food. This may include walking slowly, running, wing flicking and bill vibrating among others. Their diet consists mainly of aquatic invertebrates, small fish and amphibians.

They mate for life and display greeting rituals to verify their identity to their mates! During breeding season they develop delicate, long plumes on their back, neck and head.

#snowyegret #Egrettathula #citizenscience #native #egret #bird #fauna #nature #outdoors #food #fishing #breedingplumage #may #may22 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day142

5.23.25

Saltmarsh Mallow

Kosteletzkya pentacarpos

Observed 5.23.25 at Galveston Island State Park. It is a native perennial species that thrives in coastal wetland areas from New York down to Texas.

It can live up to 5 years, is tolerant of wet conditions including flooding and its strong root systems help stabilize soil from eroding. It is also very attractive to pollinators.

The entire plant is edible and has many culinary uses. In China, a wine is made from an extract of the leaves. You can also boil any part of the plant to make an egg white substitute!

#saltmarshmallow #Kosteletzkyapentacarpos #citizenscience #native #wildflowers #nature #outdoors #may #may23 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day143

5.24.25

Reddish Egret

Egretta rufescens

Observed 5.24.25 at Galveston Island State Park. It is native to the Texas coast and is the official bird of Galveston.

Considered one of the rarest egret species in North America. Has two morphs; a mostly white one and one with dark reddish brown plumage like pictured here.

They use movements like running, jumping, and weaving as they stalk prey. They will use their wings to herd fish towards them by creating shadows (as pictured). Their prey consists of fish, insects, and amphibians. Their predators can include coyotes, raccoons and even great tailed grackles.

#reddishegret #egrettarufescens #citizenscience #native #egret #bird #wild #nature #outdoors #may #may24 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day144

5.25.25

I believe this is Acanthocephala terminalis, a type of leaf-footed bug. It is native to the area and also eastern half of North America. Observed 5.22.25 at Galveston Island State Park. The hatched eggs on the leaf could have come from this type of insect based on size, shape and where I found them.

You can find them in woodlands, weedy areas or fields. They feed on plants like wild grape but are not considered pests.

To protect themselves from predators they release a pungent odor.

#Acanthocephalaterminalis #leaffootedbug #citizenscience #native #bug #insect #eggs #nature #outdoors #may #may25 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day145

5.26.25

Brown Pelican

Pelecanus occidentalis

Observed everyday on Galveston. They are primarily coastal birds and are native to this area.

It’s the only North American pelican species to plunge/dive for food, diving from about 65 feet. They have air sacs under their skin to protect them when hitting the water and they rotate left during the dive so as not to damage their trachea and esophagus.

Their gular (throat) pouch expands to scoop up fish and it can drain up to 3 gallons of water before swallowing its food. They often have to deal with gulls and other birds trying to steal the food from their pouches.

They can spot food from 70 feet up in the air. They are known to follow dolphins because fish are usually found around them.

They are one of the oldest bird species in existence and came back from being endangered due to DDT pesticides.

#brownpelican #pelecanusoccidentalis #citizenscience #native #birds #myfavoritebird #pelican #nature #outdoors #may #may26 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day146

5.27.25

Indian Shot

Canna indica

Observed on Stewart Road in Galveston 5.23.25. Native range includes most of South America to southeastern US.

They have very hard seeds that have been used as beads and even shotgun pellets. Even after being shot the hardy seeds can still germinate and start to grow.

The rhizomes, or thick stems, that are under the soil are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked.

The plant can live in a variety of habitats and has been used to purify wastewater in constructed wetlands.

#indianshot #cannaindica #citizenscience #native #flower #flora #plant #nature #outdoors #may #may27 #2025 #picoftoday #project365 #day147

[itsoctopuses]

Week 20 Observations

5.14.25

Barbary Fig

Opuntia ficus-indica

Observed on the side of the road near 8 Mile Rd on Galveston 5.11.25. It is a member of the prickly pear family and is native to Mexico but has become naturalized in Texas through cultivation. It is considered an invasive species in Texas. It’s sprawling growth and the fact that the pads have spines and glochids (barbed bristles) make it a good natural fence.

With optimal conditions it can live over 50 years. It is resilient, surviving in poor soil and drought conditions. It reaches maturity within 3-5 years and can reproduce asexually from rooting the pads. This makes it easy to cultivate.

Humans and livestock can eat the fruit, called tuna, and the pads. The fruit is rich in vitamins. The seeds can be dried and ground into a flour. The oil extracted is rich with essential fatty acids.

#barbaryfig #Opuntiaficusindica #citizenscience #pricklypear #cactus #nonnative #invasive #nature #outdoors #may #may14 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day134

5.15.25

American Bumblebee

Bombus pensylvanicus

Observed 5.12.25 at Moody Gardens in the pollinator garden. These are native to the area and throughout North America.

They are important pollinators, reinforcing ecological integrity of natural plants. They use buzz pollination by using their very fast wings (200 beats per second!) to vibrate the flower which then releases pollen. They also leave a scent on flowers they’ve already pollinated making them efficient!

They can be distinguished from other bees or look-a-like insects due to the fact that they crawl over the flowers where others do not.

The queen is the only one that makes it to winter to hibernate and start a new colony in the spring.

#americanbumblebee #bombuspensylvanicus #citizenscience #bumblebee #insect #native #nature #outdoors #picoftheday #project365 #day135

5.16.25

Four-spotted Pennant

Brachymesia gravida

Observed 5.11.25 at Lafitte’s Cove in Galveston. Native to the area and throughout the southeastern US.

Gets its name from resembling a pennant when it perches at the end of a branch. It is the only dragonfly/damselfly to have 4 white stigmas (also referred to as pterostimga).

Adult males have the 4 dark spots on the midwings. They are territorial with males on established perches and displaying their wings.

It is a skimmer dragonfly species found in areas with a low diversity of other dragonfly species. Usually found near lakes and open ponds. They can tolerate slightly brackish to alkaline (ph >7) water.

#fourspottedpennant #brachymesiagravida #citizenscience #native #dragonfly #insect #nature #outdoors #may #may16 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day136

5.17.25

Reticulated Giraffe

Giraffa reticulata

Observed at the zoo in February. Their native range is primarily in northern and northeastern Kenya. The right zoos gives this species a chance to survive and thrive through research, education and conservation. There are breeding programs designed to maintain genetic diversity and prevent inbreeding. This also gives the public a chance to learn about the threats that giraffes face such as climate change, habitat loss and poaching. They are on the endangered species list and there are as few as 11,000 mature reticulated giraffes left in the wild.

They are social creatures, moving in groups with females protecting the young. In the left picture, Lord Finnegan found a stick to play with and (maybe) mom came over to investigate it. Haha

They are the tallest land animals, growing up to 18ft. Their long necks and tongues enable them to reach food high in the trees.

Their spots camouflage them from predators and are as unique as fingerprints.

They have a strong, specialized heart to pump blood to the brain against gravity. It can weigh up to 25 pounds and measure 2 feet in length!

#reticulatedgiraffe #giraffareticulata #citizenscience #nonnative #giraffe #zoo #conservation #endangeredspecies #nature #outdoors #may #may17 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day137

5.18.25

Blue Jacket

Tradescantia ohiensis

Observed 5.18.25 at Galveston Island State Park. It is native to central and eastern North America, including Texas and is the most common tradescantia species.

It can form hybrids when growing alongside related species. There are about 9 species that can hybridize with this species.

They’re mostly found in roadside habitats, in fields, as well as along railroads.

The plant is edible. The flowers and stems can be consumed raw, while cooking the mucilaginous (has a gelatinous texture) leaves is best. The property of the leaves makes it similar to aloe Vera and can be used to soothe bug bites.

#bluejacket #tradescantiaohiensis #citizenscience #ohiospiderwort #native #wildflower #flora #nature #outdoors #may #may18 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day138

5.19.25

Spotted Beebalm

Monarda punctata

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 5.3.25. Native range includes eastern Canada, eastern US and northeastern Mexico. Though it spreads by seeds it is not considered highly invasive.

It is a great choice for gardens for reasons that include: attractive to pollinators, adds beauty, and can survive in drought periods in well-drained, dry or sandy soil.

Historically, Native Americans have used it for many ailments including: vomiting, nausea, colds and rheumatic pain. Modern herbalists use it for upper respiratory and digestive issues.

The leaves release an oregano smell when crushed which could be used as a culinary herb. The plant is also rich in thymol, an essential oil with antiseptic, anti fungal, and anti microbial properties, good for treating skin infections.

#spottedbeebalm #monardapunctata #citizenscience #native #flora #wildflowers #nature #outdoors #may #may19 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day139

5.20.25

Gray Catbird

Dumetella carolinensis

Observed 5.11.25 at Lafitte’s Cove on Galveston. Native to the area, especially during migration season (April-May) but can be seen year round.

One of their more distinctive calls sounds like a kitten mewing and it is usually used for courting or defending territory. They are in the Mimidae family along with other birds that use mimicry like the mockingbird. When they get to singing a performance can last 10 minutes with songs from other bird species, tree frogs and even mechanical noises. They can also make two sounds at the same time by using each side of their vocal organ (syrinx) independently.

Brown headed cowbirds will try to parasitize their nest by putting their eggs in with the catbird’s eggs. Female catbirds are thought to study their first egg laid and will puncture and toss out any eggs that don’t resemble that first one.

#graycatbird #Dumetellacarolinensis #citizenscience #native #bird #nature #outdoors #may #may20 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day140

[itsoctopuses]

Week 19 Observations

5.7.25

Vine Sphinx Moth

Eumorpha vitis

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 5.4.25 and 8.24.24. It is native to this area as well as commonly found across Texas, Arizona, Mississippi down to Argentina.

They can fly up to 30 mph making it one of the fastest flying insects. They can hover like a hummingbird when getting nectar. Their tongue, or proboscis, is one of the longest among butterflies and moths, this allows them to reach further for the nectar deep down in tubular flowers.

They are most active at night and are attracted to light.

The caterpillars, or hornworms, can be very destructive to plants especially grapevines. They are not dangerous to humans. They can be pests as caterpillars but also plays an important role in the pollination of grapevines.

#vinesphinxmoth #eumorphavitis #citizenscience #native #sphinxmoth #moth #insect #nature #outdoors #may #may7 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day127

5.8.25

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Archilochus colubris

Observed 5.8.25 at Galveston Island State Park. They are not native to this area though are common during their spring and fall migrations to and from Central America where they winter.

They are the only birds that besides flying forward also have the ability to fly backwards and hover in place. Their wings beat up to 50 times a SECOND allowing them to make precise movements.

To keep up with their high metabolism, they consume their weight in nectar and insects daily. They prefer red or orange, tubular flowers and are attracted to feeders with red nectar. They play a vital part in plant reproduction because they transfer pollen while visiting a hundred flowers per day getting nectar. They see color so well they can also see into the ultraviolet spectrum.

They make a rapid, squeaky chirp, usually when they feel threatened. Their average lifespan is about 4 years.

#rubythroatedhummingbird #archilochuscolubris #citizenscience #nonnative #bird #fauna #nature #outdoors #may #may8 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day128

5.9.25

Coral Bean

Erythrina herbacea

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 5.8.25. It is native, ranging from Texas, along the Gulf of Mexico coasts, to South Carolina.

The bright red, tubular flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies when it blooms in spring. There are small, curved thorns on the stems and leaves that protect the plant from small animals. The leaves constantly turn towards the sun, a process called phototropism.

The seeds are poisonous but the young leaves and flowers are safe to eat after boiling. Native Americans have used the coral bean for purposes such as for laxatives and to increase perspiration. In Mexico, the seeds have been used to paralyze fish and as a rat poison.

They have the potential to become invasive, rapidly spreading through seed production.

#coralbean #erythrinaherbacea #citizenscience #native #plant #flora #flowers #nature #outdoors #may #may9 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day129

5.10.25

Decollate Snail

Rumina decollata

Observed 5.10.25 at home on Galveston. It’s a nonnative species and was introduced to North America from North Africa for pest control of brown garden snails. They are omnivores and because they eat plants as well as other invertebrates they are prohibited from areas like the Pacific Northwest so protect native snail species.

They are most active at night or during rainy weather and will hide under leaf litter and soil to keep from drying out. They can burrow deep in the soil to survive cold and dry periods.

They mature quickly at about 10 months and start laying eggs. They are hermaphrodites which enables them to self fertilize but they often mate with another snail before laying up to 500 eggs in their lifetime.

The mantle (area of tissue between the body and shell) of the snail secretes layers of calcium carbonate along the opening edge of the shell, growing in length and width as the snail grows. Unlike most snails, it loses the older whorls of the shell giving it the characteristic cone shape.

#decollatesnail #Ruminadecollata #citizenscience #snail #invertebrates #mollusk #nonnative #nature #outdoors #may #may10 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day130

5.11.25

White Ibis

Eudocimus albus

Observed at Galveston Island State Park5.11.25. Native range includes coastal states from Delaware to Texas and down to Central America and the Caribbean.

Highly social species, feeding, nesting and roosting in flocks.

They use their long, curved bills to probe the ground to find prey such as crustaceans, fish and insects. An adaptable species, living in various wetland habitats and urban areas.

They have unique mating rituals that include bathing, group fighting, and head shaking. They build their nests in trees and both parents care for the young.

Ibis species have fossil records dating back millions of years!

#whiteibis #eudocimusalbus #citizenscience #ibis #bird #native #nature #outdoors #may #may11 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day131

5.12.25

Firewheel

Gaillardia pulchella

Observed on Galveston 5.12.25 (and most other days this spring). Native to southern US, Arizona to Florida and northern Mexico.

In the sunflower family. A good source of pollen for native butterflies and bees.

Thrives in sun and partial shade. Heat and drought tolerant. Is a low maintenance, short lived perennial that can easily spread its seeds to reproduce. Can grow up to 2 ft and found in fields, disturbed areas and along roadsides.

#firewheel #Gaillardiapulchella #citizenscience #native #wildflower #nature #outdoors #may #may12 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day132

5.13.25

Lilac Chaste Tree

Vitex agnus-castus

Observed at Lafitte’s Cove in Galveston and also at my apartment complex 5.11.25. Nonnative plant, introduced from the Mediterranean area.

If not maintained it could become invasive in warmer climates. Its fragrant flowers attract all kinds of pollinators making it an important ornamental addition to landscapes.

It has been used both for culinary and medicinal purposes. In the kitchen the leaves and fruits have been used for spice or in spice blends. Medically, it has traditionally been used to help with menopause, menstrual and premenstrual issues.

#lilacchastetree #Vitexagnuscastus #citizenscience #nonnative #plant #tree #flora #vitex #nature #outdoors #may #may13 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day133

[itsoctopuses]

Week 18 Observations

4.30.25

Red-winged Blackbird

Agelaius phoeniceus

Observed 4.25.25 at Galveston Island State Park. Native to the area and their range includes most of North America to parts of Central America. They are one of the most common land birds with populations in the millions.

Males are highly aggressive when it comes to protecting their territory. Males can have up to 15 mates in their territory in a season. Their distinctive call is used to attract mates and warn off rivals.

Females don’t have the black with red wing coloration but are a drab brown that helps them blend into the marshy areas they nest in.

They are very adaptable and can live in a variety of habitats.

In some Ojibwa languages, they’re referred to as “memiskondinimaanganeshiinh” which translates to “bird with a very red shoulder blade.”

#redwingedblackbird #agelaiusphoeniceus #citizenscience #native #bird #male #nature #outdoors #april #april30 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day120

5.1.25

Killdeer

Charadrius vociferus

Observed 5.1.25 at Galveston Island State Park (the chicks were taken around spring of 2012). They are native to Galveston with resident and migratory populations.

They are considered shore birds and are very good swimmers but are mostly found in dry areas such as lawns or athletic fields.

Both males and females work on making the nest. Males use their chest to make a small divot or scrape where the nest will go. They’re usually found on lawns or gravel roads with pebbles.

They will pretend to be injured and become very vocal to lure predators away from their eggs.

The chicks are precocial which means they can swim, walk and run shortly after hatching.

#killdeer #charadriusvociferus #citizenscience #bird #native #nest #nature #outdoors #may #may1 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day121

5.2.25

Sunshine Mimosa

Mimosa strigillosa

Observed on Galveston along roadsides and at the park 5.2.25. Native to the Gulf of Mexico states and found north into Georgia and Arkansas.

This species makes for good ground cover in low maintenance areas because the roots of the mats help prevent soil erosion, it is drought tolerant once established, and can fix nitrogen into its roots so it doesn’t require much fertilization.

The beautiful, showy pink flowers attract pollinators and the little sulphur butterfly depends on this plant as a food source for its larvae.

Like other mimosa species, it is a sensitive plant. The leaves react to touch and will fold close. You can see where I have touched the leaves and they go from open/flat to folded! So cool!!

#sunshinemimosa #mimosastrigillosa #citizenscience #wildflower #native #sensitiveplant #nature #outdoors #may #may2 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day122

5.3.25

Cajun Hibiscus Blue Monday

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Observed on a neighbor’s porch at home on Galveston 5.3.25. The species this variety originated from is a native plant to Southeast Asia. It is a hybrid made from crossing different hibiscus species so it doesn’t have a natural range.

The Cajun hibiscus comes in a variety of colors with the blue Monday variety in blues and lavender.

They continuously bloom from spring to fall with large, showy blooms.

They thrive in containers making them great for patios. They need full sun for optimal growth with regular watering and fertilizing.

#cajunhibiscus #bluemonday #hibiscusrosasinensis #citizenscience #flower #pottedplant #garden #nonnative #hybrid #nature #outdoors #may #may3 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day123

5.4.25

Fork-tailed Bush Katydid

Scudderia furcata

Observed at the Artist Boat coastal sanctuary on Galveston 5.4.25. Its native range includes all of North America and Central America.

They are herbivores feeding on flowers, grass, leaves and fruit. I watched this one scrape its “foot” across the flower scooping up dew and drinking it.

The males rub their wings together creating a “tzit” sound to attract females. During mating season they also provide their mate a nuptial gift called a spermatophore which is a protein rich capsule containing sperm. The females lay their eggs in fall/winter. The nymphs (babies) hatch in spring.

#forktailedbushkatydid #Scudderiafurcata #citizenscience #native #insect #katydid #artistboat #nature #outdoors #may #may4 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day124

5.5.25

Sidewalk Firedot

Xanthocarpia feracissima

Observed on my balcony in Galveston 5.5.25. It is a lichen native to the eastern US and Canada.

This lichen is part of a group known for their bright colors, adding natural beauty to the mundane, and the ability to thrive in diverse environments. It is very common on sidewalks, retaining walls, and balconies :)

Its bright orange reproductive structures, or apothecia, stand out and give it a fire dot appearance.

#sidewalkfiredot #Xanthocarpiaferacissima #citizenscience #native #lichen #firedot #macro #nature #outdoors #may #may5 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day125

5.6.25

Scarlet Pea

Indigofera miniata

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 5.2.25. Native to the eastern two-thirds of Texas.

It is a great ground cover growing low in trails or it can mound up. This growth helps protect against soil erosion. It can also grow in many different substrates.

Its well established root systems helps it withstand long lasting drought conditions.

It is a host plant for different species of butterfly larvae. Butterflies are attracted to the salmon colored flowers and it is a popular snack for livestock and deer.

#scarletpea #Indigoferaminiata #citizenscience #native #wildflowers #nature #outdoors #may #may6 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day126

[itsoctopuses]

Week 17 Observations

4.23.25

Golden Wave Tickseed

Coreopsis basalis

Observed 4.21.25 at Galveston’s historic cemetery on Broadway. This species is in the sunflower family & is native from Texas to the Carolinas. There are isolated populations in California, Illinois and Connecticut.

The seeds resemble ticks, hence the name, but doesn’t attract ticks. Though it does attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Deer may find this flower unappealing so it can be a good garden flower.

It is drought tolerant, thriving in dry conditions with well drained soil. It’s an annual that is easy to grow and self seeds to ensure blooms in following years.

Native Americans have used this species for medicinal purposes and to make dyes.

#goldenwavetickseed #coreopsisbasalis #citizenscience #native #wildflowers #nature #outdoors #april #april23 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day113

4.24.25

Western Honey Bee

Apis mellifera

Observed in Galveston 4.21.25 at the cemetery on Broadway. Their native range includes the Middle East, Africa and Europe but they have been introduced to North America. It’s not considered invasive in Galveston but can be in other places. Despite this possibility they still contribute substantially to ecosystems and food production by being beneficial pollinators.

Honey bees are the only insect to produce food (honey and beeswax) that is consumed by humans. A single bee only produces about 1/2 tsp in its lifetime!

Queen bees live about 5 years and will mate with many males during spring and summer and can lay around 1500 eggs a day! Worker bees only live 6-8 months and even fewer during winter.

There are 33 subspecies, including the Africanized Killer Bee.

They communicate through dance to signal the quality and location of food to bees in their hive.

They have 5 eyes that help perceive shapes, motion, light, & colors except for red. They can detect UV light which enables them to find flowers.

Females are the only ones to have stingers and can only sting once in their lifetime. They end up dying shortly after because the stinger is barbed and gets lodged and ends up tearing from the bee when she tries to fly away. Not all bee species die after using their stinger.

#westernhoneybee #apismellifera #citizenscience #honeybee #bee #pollinator #nonnative #insect #nature #outdoors #april #april24 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day114

4.25.25

Common Onion

Allium cepa

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 4.23.25. These were noticed and pulled by the park’s natural resource specialist. Probably someone tossed them thinking they’d decompose but instead they grew. Just a friendly reminder when you visit parks to take what you bring. They are not native to the area but were introduced to here and other parts of the world from Central Asia. Mostly through agriculture and trade.

People have been cultivating onions for at least 7000 years and it’s thought to have originated from the region around Iran. Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians believed that they had strengthening and vitality powers so workers and soldiers would consume them regularly.

They are very versatile and rich in nutrients making them a staple in the kitchen.

They are in the lily family. Common onions are not to be confused with wild onion/wild garlic that is native to Texas.

#commononion #alliumcepa #citizenscience #nonnative #onion #vegetable #plant #flora #nature #outdoors #april #april25 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day115

4.26.25

Wild Garlic

Allium canadense

Observed 4.26.25 at Galveston Island State Park. It is native to the area. The range extends from Texas to Florida. Found in New Brunswick and Montana. It has become naturalized in Cuba.

Easy to grow in moist soil that is neutral to rich, as well as in the sun or partial sunny areas.

It attracts many different pollinators such as hummingbirds, bees & butterflies.

All parts of the plant are edible and have mild garlic or onion flavors. The small bulbs, or bulbils, can even be pickled. Native Americans use it for medicinal purposes and for food. The Cherokee are known to use it as an insect repellent as well.

#wildgarlic #alliumcanadense #citizenscience #native #plant #nature #outdoors #april #april26 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day116

4.27.25

False Garlic (or Crow Poison)

Nothoscordum bivalve

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 4.26.25. It is a native wildflower ranging from Texas to Florida, up to Nebraska & Ohio, down to Mexico and parts of Central America.

It can be mistaken for wild garlic or onion but it lacks the familiar odor.

It is one of the 1st wildflowers to bloom which creates nectar early in the season for pollinators.

It spreads easily by its seeds and underground bulbs that resemble onions. It is found growing in parks, lawns and along roadsides.

There is little credible evidence that it is toxic but also lacks recorded culinary and medicinal uses.

#falsegarlic #nothoscordumbivalve #citizenscience #native #plants #wildflowers #nature #outdoors #april #april27 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day117

4.28.25

Common Lovebug

Plecia nearctica

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 4.26.25. Native all along the Gulf Coast.

Know for their unique mating rituals, these flies will stay connected to their partner several days while mating. Females can lay up to 350 eggs.

They are attracted to heat and can be found swarming around running vehicles. They are attracted to white or light colors and fresh paint! I watched them swarm white vehicles over darker ones all day. Their acidic bodies can damage the paint on vehicles if left on it. They may get annoying but are harmless to pets and people. They are herbivores with adults feeding on nectar from flowers and larvae feeding on decaying plant matter that will help enrich the soil.

They have two seasons each year, both lasting about 5 weeks. There is one in the spring and one in the fall.

#commonlovebug #plecianearctica #citizenscience #native #insect #flies #lovebug #nature #ourdoors #april #april28 #2025 #picoftheday #prject354 #day118

4.29.25

Sago Cycad

Cycas revoluta

Observed at home on Galveston 4.28.25. Though native to Southern Japan it is not considered invasive here.

Though they look like palms they are more closely related to pine trees. This plant belongs in a family dating as far back as the Jurassic Era! They are slow growers and live hundreds of years. They are cold and dry tolerant, making them a hardy plant.

This species have separate male and female plants and depend on each other to reproduce. Pictured here is a female. Pollination happens between the male and female cones via insects and wind. Once the female plant has been pollinated the hairy cone will close and Orange-red seeds are produced.

The seeds contain a neurotoxin and are poisonous if consumed by humans and animals.

#sagocycad #Cycasrevoluta #citizenscience #flora #cycad #female #seeds #texture #nonnative #noninvasive #nature #outdoors #april #apeil29 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day119

[itsoctopuses]

Week 16 Observations

4.16.25

Broad-leaved Gulfweed

Sargassum fluitans

Observed all along Galveston beach 4.16.25. It is not native to the Gulf of Mexico but is a pelagic seaweed that is brought here from the Sargasso Sea via ocean currents. It is not considered invasive and helps with beach stability and nourishment.

The broad leaves and small gas bladders help it float along the surface. This creates a moving habitat for numerous marine animals including but not limited to; sea turtles, fish, crabs, nudibranchs, and crabs. They can create mats that stretch for miles and sometimes it is referred to as “golden floating rainforests”, great place for food, shelter and nursery in the middle of the ocean.

There is also some lore that the Sargasso Sea is connected to the Bermuda Triangle in that is mysterious and magical.

#broadleavedgulfweed #Sargassumfluitans #citizenscience #seaweed #nonnative #noninvasive #habitat #nature #outdoors #april #april16 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day106

4.17.25

Sargassum Nudibranch

Scyllaea pelagica

Observed all along the beaches in Galveston in the broad-leaved gulfweed 4.17.25. Like the seaweed that they spend their life in, they are not native to the area but are found annually when the sargassum floats into the Gulf of Mexico.

They are hermaphrodites (both male and felmale) and lay their eggs in the seaweed. It is a clear, gelatinous string with the developing embryos in the center (the bright yellow string).

They use camouflage and some times toxins to deter predators. Some also have little blue dots that also might deter them as well.

They are carnivores, eating hydroids that grow on the seaweed. Hydroids have stinging cells that the nudibranchs can absorb and use for protection. They are harmless to humans though some might feel a mild sting or itch.

If they loose hold of the sargassum they can project themselves to the surface, swimming erratically.

They have gills, for breathing under water, that are on their back and they do not make it long once stranded on the beach.

#sargassumnudibranch #Scyllaeapelagica #citizenscience #nudibranch #seaslug #mollusk #nonnative #noninvasive #nature #outdoors #april #april17 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day107

4.18.25

Goose Barnacle

Lepas anserifera

Observed on beaches in Galveston 4.17.25. They are a pelagic barnacle that attaches to almost anything floating in the ocean and found in tropical to temperate waters.

I’ve seen them attached to sargassum, all kinds of trash, and driftwood. The natural adhesive they secrete to attach themselves to these surfaces is so strong that scientists have studied it to form better medical adhesives.

They are filter feeding crustaceans that use cirri to fan through the water creating a current that filters out plankton and other small organisms.

#goosebarnacle #Lepasanserifera #citizenscience #crustacean #barnacles #nonnative #cosmopolitan #nature #outdoors #april #april18 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day108

4.19.25

Ostrich-plume Hydroid

Aglaophenia latecarinata

Observed growing on sargassum that washed up on Galveston beaches 4.17.25. Like the sargassum it grows on, it is a nonnative species. Their distribution is connected to the type of sargassum they grow on.

They don’t have a medusa stage but release planula larvae that settle on new substrates to produce new colonies. They can also reproduce from propagules or fragments.

This species has nematocysts which can cause stings or lesions.

This is one of the species the nudibranchs feed on.

#ostrichplumehydroid #Aglaophenialatecarinata #citizenscience #hydroid #beachfinds #nature #outdoors #april #april19 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day109

4.20.25

Clytia noliformis

Observed 4.17.25 on a gas bladder from the sargassum on Galveston beaches. From what I can find it appears to be a native species. This is another hydroid species that the nudibranchs feed on.

This species has both a medusa stage (free floating) and a polyp stage (sessile or fixed in place like on a gas bladder).

It reproduces during the medusa stage by male and females releasing their eggs and sperm.

Both stages have (different) nematocysts that help them capture prey like zooplankton.

The medusae also have sensory organs called statocysts that help with balance and orientation.

This species is also used in studying neural basis of behavior.

#Clytia noliformis #citizenscience #hydroid #cnidarian #micro #nature #outdoors #april #april20 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day110

4.21.25

Sargassum Shrimp

Latreutes fucorum

Observed 4.21.25 on Galveston beach in sargassum. It is native to the Gulf of Mexico and surrounding coastlines.

It is a small, brown shrimp that is a common inhabitant of sargassum but is not limited to that habitat. They can be found in a wide range of tints and hues. This one had the most because blue spots.

They are masters of camouflage, blending in among the leaves of the sargassum using the mats as protection from predators.

They have a planktonic larval stage that helps them disperse from the algal mats allowing them to colonize new areas.

They can also detect chemical cues released by the sargassum that they use to find and inhabit new mats.

#sargassumshrimp #Latreutesfucorum #citizenscience #shrimp #crustacean #invertebrates #beach #nature #outdoors #april #april21 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day111

4.22.25

Sargassum Swimming Crab

Portunus sayi

Observed 6.12.24 in sargassum on Galveston beach. The species is native to the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico and lives in the floating sargassum mats.

Their orange/brown coloring with white spots camouflages them in the sargassum, helping them ambush prey such as polychaete worms, tiny fish, and hydroids.

Their 4 pair of legs grow flat like paddles that make them excellent swimmers including sideways.

#sargassumswimmingcrab #Portunussayi #citizenscience #crab #crustacean #beach #camouflage #nature #outdoors #april #april22 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day112

[itsoctopuses]

Week 15 Observations

4.9.25

Black-bellied Whistling Ducks

Dendrocygna autumnalis

Observed several days, including today, at Galveston Island State Park. They are native to the Texas Gulf Coast which is also a primary breeding ground for them.

They can form flocks of 1000 birds! With their numbers increasing, they are on the IUCN Red List as Least Concern.

They lack sexual dimorphism and will form long term pairs, similar to swans and geese.

They nest on the ground in grassy areas, nest boxes or cavities in trees. Some females will dump their eggs in another female’s nest like wood ducks.

They are most recognizable by their soft, wheezy whistles. Unlike other waterfowl, they will rest on power lines, signs, posts, and more giving them the former name of “tree ducks”.

#blackbelliedwhistlingduck#Dendrocygnaautumnalis #citizenscience #ducks #waterfowl #native #birds #nature #outdoors #april #april9 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day99

4.10.25

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Sphyrapicus varius

Observed in the tree off my balcony in Galveston 4.8.25. They are not native to this area but migrate between Canada, and northeast/central US and Central America, Mexico and southeast US. They show up in this area from October-April.

They create little sap wells in trees with their beaks and use their tongue to absorb sap or insects but they also eat berries. I watched this one grab berries off the tree, place it in a notch and then eat them. Their sap wells also benefit bats, some squirrels and hummingbirds.

They will protect their sap wells and nests, returning to the same nest several seasons in a row. They prefer softer wood that has been taken over fungus to build their nests.

#yellowbelliedsapsucker #Sphyrapicusvarius #citizenscience #nonnative #migration #birds #nature #outdoors #april #april10 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day100

4.11.25

Summer Tanager

Piranga rubra

Observed in the tree out back at home on Galveston 4.9.25. They are native to this area, especially in summer to breed.

They are in the cardinal family and are the only completely red bird in North America.

They usually feed on insects, specifically bees and wasps. They are quite fierce because they will rip the stinger out and use their beak to bash the insect on a tree limb, killing it. They will also eat fruit during winter and migration. They do not form their own flocks but are known to join mixed species of birds that eat fruit.

#summertanager #Pirangarubra #citizenscience #native #bird #nature #outdoors #april #april11 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day101

4.12.25

Tersa Sphinx Moth

Xylophanes tersa

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 4.12.25. It is a common (though a first for me) and widespread species found from northern US all the way to parts of South America.

They are attracted to honeysuckle for its nectar. They can mimic bees and hummingbirds and can be active both at night or during the day.

The caterpillar of this species has a horn on its tail but is completely harmless.

#tersasphinxmoth #Xylophanestersa #citizenscience #moth #native #insect #nature #outdoors #april #april12 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day102

4.13.25

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

Observed at home 4.11.25 and GISP 4.12.25. Pretty cool because I’ve never seen one before. They don’t breed or winter here but will pass through during migration. They can travel 1200 miles each way going from South America where they winter to Eastern North America where they breed! When migrating by night they have an internal clock that helps them following stars as they move in the sky.

The solid blue one is an adult breeding male and the one with brown and blue is a first year male.

My brain doesn’t understand this but they actually lack blue pigment in their feathers unlike other blue birds. Instead there are tiny, microscopic structures on the feathers that refract and reflect blue light 🤯

They mainly eating insects or seeds but are known to eat berries as well.

#indigobunting #Passerinacyanea #citizenscience #nonnative #bird #nature #outdoors #april #april13 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day103

4.14.25

Largeflower Pink-sorrel

Oxalis debilis

Observed at a friend’s 3.31.25 on Galveston Island. It is nonnative to the area and was introduced to all parts of the world except Antarctica from South America. It’s not usually considered invasive like yellow wood-sorrel but can be in some regions. Best to extract the rhizomes from moist soil.

It is a popular plant for pollinators providing nectar. It has a high concentration of vitamin C. The whole plant is edible though you’ll want to watch the amount due to the oxalic acid that gives it a tart, lemony flavor. Too much, over time, can cause a calcium deficiency.

The large, clover like leaves fold up at night. The plant is also seen as good luck in some cultures, like the shamrock.

#largeflowerpinksorrel #Oxalisdebilis #citizenscience #nonnative #cosmopolitan #edible #goodluck #flora #april #april14 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day104

4.15.25

Western Atlantic Striped False Limpet

Siphonaria naufragum

Observed at the west end of the seawall on Galveston 4.15.25. It is found on hard substrates along Florida and the Gulf of Mexico’s intertidal coastline.

They are air-breathing marine snails that are not related to true limpets that breathe through gills. They are known to trap air under their shells for respiration.

They are hermaphrodites, reproducing by laying their eggs in gelatinous strands. The larvae, once hatched, will settle and start to grow.

They feed on algae and other organisms that grow on the rocks.

#westernatlanticstripedfalselimpet #Siphonarianaufragum #citizenscience #marinesnail #mollusk #native #nature #outdoors #april #april15 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day105

[itsoctopuses]

Week 14 Observations

4.2.25

American Green Tree Frog

Hyla cinerea

Observed 4.2.25 at Galveston Island State Park. They thrive in warm, humid environments and their native range includes the Texas coast and Southeastern US.

They are nocturnal spending their days in trees (or squashed behind signs mounted on the fee booth 😅) and they come out at night to feed on bugs. They have teeth on the roof of their mouth to keep their food from escaping while they swallow.

They are not currently endangered, but with all species are affected by pollution and habitat loss

They can slightly change skin tones to blend in to their environments. Their calls are very distinctive and males emit low frequency calls to attract females. Females can lay about 400 eggs in a season, which is from March to October.

#americangreentreefrog #hylacinerea #citizenscience #treefrog #frog #amphibians #native #nature #outdoors #april #april2 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day92

4.3.25

Fork-tailed Flycatcher

Tyrannus savana

Observed on April 3, 2025 at Galveston Island State Park. It is a non-native vagrant in the US with its native range being southern Mexico to Argentina. It is rare for these birds to migrate to North America.

Their long, forked tales are longer than the scissor-tailed flycatcher’s with males tails growing to 6 inches. During migration they may be in a flock of 10,000 birds, being very social.

They feed by perching on limbs or fence posts and darting out to catch insects in the air. The length of their tails allow them to make sharp turns when going after pray. They can stop quickly and hover, despite reaching 65 mph all because of their tails.

They communicate by fluttering their tail feathers quickly, creating a high-pitched trill and the ones that do not migrate have a different frequency of trill than the birds that do migrate.

#forktailedflycatcher #tyrannussavana #citizenscience #nonnative #rarebird #lifebird #flycatcher #nature #outdoors #april #april3 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day93

4.4.25

American White Waterlily

Nymphaea odorata

Observed at Galveston island State Park 4.4.25. It is native in most of the United States, including Texas.

You can find this waterlily, thriving in shallow still waters such as ponds, lakes, and even some slow moving streams. The roots of this plant are anchored in the submerged soil.

They have very beautiful and fragrant flowers that can grow up to 5 inches wide with a number of petals and yellow stamens. This plant is attractive to butterflies but its biggest pollinators are actually beetles. The leaves are round and can grow up to 30 cm in diameter. They float on the surface and have a water repellent, wax-like coating to prevent tearing. These leaves have tiny openings on the surface called stomata and this is different to most land plants that have them on the underside. The leaves transport oxygen to the submerged roots via stems that are soft and act as air channels.

The flowers usually bloom summer to early fall (it sure feels like summer already) and each flower only lasts about four days.

Many animals use the waterlily for habitat and food and this includes but not limited to fish, amphibians, beavers, and insects.

The leaves, flowers and seeds of this plant are edible and the root, if boiled, can make a liquid used to treat sore throats.

#americanwhitewaterlily #nymphaeaodorata #citizenscience #waterlily #flora #native #nature #outdoors #april #april4 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day94

4.5.25

Longbract Wild Indigo

Baptisia bracteata

Observed on Galveston Island 4.5.25. This area is included in its native range of central and eastern North America. This plant thrives in fields, prairies, and open woods, preferring full sun. They are drought tolerant once they’ve become established.

It starts blooming in March making it the earliest bloomer of the genus Baptisia. Their flowers can be white to creamy yellow, are pea-shaped and they resemble lupines. The flowers are mostly pollinated by queen bumblebees though it will attract other insects.

They will develop inflated, green seed pods after flowering that will turn black with maturity.

Their roots can be used to make a tea to help with scarlet and typhoid fever. Native Americans dry the seed pods and use them as rattles and use the plant for blue dye.

#longbractwildindigo #baptisiabracteata #citizenscience #native #flora #prairie #nature #outdoors #april #april5 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day95

4.6.25

Common Buckeye

Junonia coenia

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 4.6.25. Its native range is most of North America, including parts of Canada, Mexico and Central America. Migrating populations will move northward in spring and summer to breed and return south in the fall.

Their large eye spots on their wings are thought to be used to startle/distract predators, making them appear more intimidating.

They prefer sunny, open areas with low vegetation like in fields, pastures, along roadsides and in gardens. Through trial and error they learn which plants produce the most nectar by their color. Living about 10 days makes this even more impressive.

They are seen as symbols of renewal, transformation and good luck in some cultures.

#commonbuckeye #Junoniacoenia #citizenscience #butterfly #insect #native #nature #outdoors #april #april6 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day96

4.7.25

House Finch

Haemorhous mexicanus

Observed at home on Galveston Island 4.7.25. Their native range is southwestern US and Mexico but have been introduced from a pet store in New York in the 1930s and they soon spread to other places, including here, becoming quite common.

The males red plumage comes from its food, mainly berries and fruit. This one was snacking on mulberries. They will sometimes feed a female they are courting.

They are vegetarian and even feed their babies plant based food unlike other birds that feed their young insects.

They will build their nest or take over abandoned nests, whatever is convenient. And they love seeds so you can attract them to your feeder easily.

#housefinch #Haemorhousmexicanus #citizenscience #nonnative #common #bird #mulberries #nature #outdoors #april #april7 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day97

4.8.25

Texas Bluebonnet

Lupinus texensis

Observed on Galveston Island right off I-45 4.7.25. Texas was the first state to plant wildflowers alongside highways.

This species (as well as two others) is native and endemic to Texas though I consider myself lucky seeing them on the island.

It became the state flower in 1901.

This plant, including its seeds, is poisonous and even wild animals will avoid eating it.

It can come in pink, white and purple shades. It even has its own legend making the flower tied to Texas like the shamrock is to Ireland.

#texasbluebonnets #Lupinustexensis #citizenscience #bluebonnets #native #endemic #wildflowers #spring #nature #outdoors #april #april8 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day98