itsoctopuses

[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

[itsoctopuses]

Week 13 Observations

3.26.25

Charadra dispulsa

I couldn’t find a common name for this noctuid moth. Observed 3.26.25 at Galveston Island State Park. Its native range extends from Texas to San Luis Potosí, Mexico.

The adults show up from March to May and through July in South Texas.

They have an average wing size of 34 mm. Though nothing is known of the larval stages and the plants they feed on it is thought that the larvae might be oak feeders.

I could find very little on this species and that spot on its thorax may be a bald spot.

It may also be a female indicated by the refined antennae.

#charadradispulsa #noctuidmoth #citizenscience #moth #insect #native #nature #outdoors #march #march26 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day85

3.27.25

Eastern Mud Turtle

Kinosternon subrubrum

Observed 3.27.25 at Galveston Island State Park. This species is native and endemic to this area and eastern United States.

Though they prefer slow moving freshwater areas with heavy vegetation, they have adapted to coastal life by tolerating brackish waters.

In Texas this species is considered secure but habitat loss and road mortality contributes to its decline.

They dig under sand or dry leaves to hibernate from September to May. Not sure why this guy was out today.

They are omnivores, feeding on insects, aquatic plants, carrion, and more.

They are not strong swimmers and will walk along the bottom of the water and their nostrils are positioned so that they can breathe with most of their body submerged.

#easternmudturtle #Kinosternonsubrubrum #citizenscience #turtle #reptile #native #endemic #nature #outdoors #march #march27 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day86

3.28.25

Scarlet Pimpernel

Lysimachia/Anagallis arvensis

Observed 3.28.25 at Galveston Island State Park. It originates from North Africa, Europe, & Western Asia. It’s a widely distributed (by humans) nonnative, noninvasive annual.

The flowers will close when cloudy or stormy, earning it the nickname Shepherd’s weather glass & opens in the sunshine.

It produces very small, brown seeds to reproduce with each plant having the potential to produce thousands.

The plant contains toxins and can poison people and livestock if eaten in large enough quantities.

It has been used as the symbol for the hero in the novel turned musical, “The Scarlet Pimpernel” by Baroness Emmuska Orczy.

#scarletpimpernel #lysimachiaarvensis #anagallisarvensis #citizenscience #flora #nonnative #noninvasive #nature #outdoors #march #march28 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day87

3.29.25

Little Brown Skink

Scincella lateralis

Observed 3.26.25 at Galveston Island State Park. Their native range is most of the Eastern US & Northern Mexico. It is fairly common in its range and is at Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

This is one of North America’s smallest reptiles. It is fossorial, meaning they spend most of their time under leaf litter. I had to boot this one out of the restroom.

It is diurnal but can be active at night as well. They spend the coldest months hibernating.

When threatened they will hide or run away. As a last resort they can drop their tail, growing it back later.

They are insectivores and use their tongue to sense chemicals from prey by flicking the air.

They live 2-4 years with young becoming reproductively mature at 1 year. Both males and females have many mates. They may lay more than one clutch per year with 1-6 eggs in each. After 1-2 months the babies hatch and are self sufficient. (I’m about 470 months old and I still struggling with self sufficiency 😅)

#littlebrownskink #scincellalateralis #citizenscience #reptile #lizard #native #nature #outdoors #march #march29 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day88

3.30.25

Common Gold-dust

Chrysothrix xanthina

Observed on tree bark at Galveston Island State Park on 3.28.25. It thrives in dry shaded areas on bark, dead wood and sometimes rocks. It is considered cosmopolitan meaning it is found everywhere except Antarctica.

It gets its name from its yellow color and the granular powdery structure of growth. These granules are called soredia, tiny reproductive units. These soredias spread by wind, animals, and even water.

Like all lichen, it is made up of fungi (for structure) and algae (for food) growing symbiotically. it is also a good environmental indicator, growing more abundantly in less polluted areas.

Commongolddust #Chrysothrixxanthina #citizenscience #lichen #nature #outdoors #march #march30 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day89

3.31.25

Tangerine Beauty Crossvine

Bignonia capreolata

Observed at a friend’s on Galveston Island on 3.31.25. It is native to the central and southern US. Though it is a vigorous climber, it is not invasive like other vine species.

They can bloom from spring to fall (this was her first big bloom of the season). It is low maintenance and thrives in full sun and can tolerate partially shaded areas.

It is a great pollinator attractor for butterflies, bees and hummingbirds.

Historically, Native Americans used parts of the crossvine for medicinal purposes, treating maladies like edema, diphtheria, rheumatism and headaches. On the flip side of that, it is not considered edible and has harmful elements that can cause allergic reactions and gastrointestinal issues.

#tangerinebeautycrossvine #bignoniacapreolata #citizenscience #flora #native #nature #outdoors #march #march31 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day90

4.1.25

Violet Carpenter Bee

Xylocopa violacea

Observed at a friend’s on Galveston Island 3.31.25. It is native to Asia and Europe.

They appear to be all black until the sun catches the blue & purple hues in their wings.

They visit a wide variety of flowers for pollen and nectar making them important pollinators. They can also use their size and weight to steal nectar from long, tubular flowers without pollinating.

They hibernate over the winter and start emerging around April-May. Their nature predators include some mammals and birds, including woodpeckers.

They create their nests by boring into decaying or dead wood which is where the “carpenter” part of their name comes from.

#violetcarpenterbee #xylocopaviolacea #citizenscience #nonnative #insect #nature #outdoors #april #april1 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day91

[itsoctopuses]

Week 12 Observations

3.19.25

Southern Paper Wasp

Polistes bellicosus

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 3.16.25. They are typically found in areas like Houston, a native species to southeastern and south central US.

They are a social wasp building paper nests made from fibers they have manipulated. They are less aggressive than other wasps and only sting when they or their nest is threatened.

Their lifecycle is just a year with the queen wintering alone to start a new colony in the spring.

They are beneficial to their habitat by pollinating plants and preying on other insects.

#southernpaperwasp #Polistesbellicosus #citizenscience #wasp #insect #native #pollinator #nature #outdoors #march #march19 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day78

3.20.25

Sailfin Molly

Poecilia latipinna

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 3.16.25. This area is in their native range and also includes North Carolina to Mexico.

This is a very adaptable fish that you could find in fresh, salt or brackish water. It’s upturned mouth helps allows@it to draw oxygen from the surface in oxygen depleted waters.

The brightly colored ones are males that also have the sail-like dorsal fin helping them attract mates.

They are livebearers so instead of eggs they birth live young. Females can store sperm from males and later become pregnant even after the male has died. Depending on the size and maturity of the female, she can birth 10-140 live young in a brood.

They mainly feed on algae or plants but will also eat small invertebrates and mosquito larvae!

#sailfinmolly #poecilialatipinna #citizenscience #fish #native #nature #outdoors #march #march20 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day79

3.21.25

Australian Spotted Jellyfish

Phyllorhiza punctata

Observed at Moody Gardens in February. This species is native to the western Pacific Ocean but has shown up in other bodies of water including the Gulf of Mexico and is considered invasive.

They feed on fish eggs and larvae and can consume large amounts daily which can impact fish populations.

They are also highly adaptable and are thriving despite climate change, acidification of the ocean, overfishing and other human influences unlike other marine creatures.

The head, or bell, can grow up to 24in (these were maybe 3in). They have 8 oral arms that come from the mouth area and have a bundle of stinging cells (nematocysts) at the end of each. The sting is mild and not a threat for humans but can paralyze small prey.

#australianspottedjellyfish #Phyllorhizapunctata #citizenscience #aquarium #conservation #education #invasivespecies #jellyfish #invertebrates #march #march21 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day80

3.22.25

Lion

Panthera leo

Observed in February at the zoo. All wild populations of lions live in Africa except for one Asiatic species living in the Gir Forest National Park of western India. There are roughly 23,000 wild lions left making it a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This number is much lower than that of the African Elephant.

Cubs are born spotty to help blend in with the environment and avoid predators. Most males lion grow manes as they get older as a sign of dominance though there are maneless males in Kenya that are thought to have adapted to the local climate.

They’re known as the laziest of the big cats, sleeping up to 20 hours a day!

Females are the hunters and they often hunt during storms. This helps mask their smell as they stalk prey. They can consume around 88 lbs of meat in a single meal and many lions have adapted to drier areas by getting their water from their meals and even plants like the Tsamma melon.

#lion #Pantheraleo #citizenscience #zoo #conservation #education #naptime #vulnerablespecies #nature #outdoors #march #march22 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day81

3.23.25

Lagoon Triggerfish

Rhinecanthus aculeatus

Observed at Moody Gardens in February.

They are found on coral reefs and sandy areas in tropical/subtropical waters.

Both sexes can be quite aggressive especially when defending their territory with females protecting their eggs in the nest.

They’ll eat almost anything being omnivorous. They use their strong jaws and sharp teeth to crush their prey.

They have great maneuverability, using their fins to move backward and forwards and even hover. They get the name “triggerfish” from their first dorsal spine that can lock into place using it to stay wedged in a crevice or hole for protection.

#lagoontriggerfish #Rhinecanthusaculeatus #citizenscience #fish #aquarium #conservation #nature #march #march23 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day82

3.24.25

Common Geranium

Pelargonium zonale

Observed at home 3.24.25. Also know as garden geranium though not in the true geranium genus. They come from Southern Africa and made their way to North America in the 17th century.

They thrive best in full sun, well draining soil and regular watering though can survive in droughts. They are usually disease and pest resistant.

These are known for their bright, vivid colors. They are considered a symbol of home with a long history of being used on balconies.

#commongeranium #Pelargoniumzonale #citizenscience #garden #flora #nature #outdoors #march #march24 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day83

3.25.25

African Painted Dog

Lycaon pictus

Cuddle puddle observed at zoo in February. This species is native to sub-Saharan Africa and is on the endangered species list with only a few thousand in the wild.

They are highly social, living in packs up to 15 members, working as a team of exceptional hunters with an 80% success rate (compared to the 20-30% that lions have). They can run up to 44mph and for long distances and have one of the most powerful bites for their size of any animal.

They rarely stay in one place for long, living nomadic lives.

Each dog’s coat is like a fingerprint with unique markings. They have 4 toes, unlike other dog species. Their large ears help them when hunting and also keep them cool.

#africanpainteddog #lycaonpictus #citizenscience #endangeredspecies #zoo #conservation #nature #outdoors #march #march25 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day84

[itsoctopuses]

Week 11 Observations

3.12.25

Long-legged Fly

Condylostylus longicornis

Observed at home on 3.7.25.

This fly is native here along with the rest of southern US to tropical South America and has been introduced to other tropical regions.

They feed on small and soft bodied invertebrates but don’t bite people.

They hang out in gardens and can be found sunning on vegetation like the one pictured.

Last but most notable, their exoskeleton has a colorful metallic iridescence.

#longleggedfly #Condylostyluslongicornis #citizenscience #fly #insect #native #nature #outdoors #march #march12 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day71

3.13.25

Crested Caracara

Caracara plancus

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 3.11.25. Texas is in its native range that also includes southeastern US, Mexico, some Caribbean islands and most of Latin America. They are a threatened species and are protected by the federal endangered species act and the US migratory bird treaty act.

Pictured here is a juvenile (in tree) and an adult (in flight). Juveniles have usually left this area by now but this one has stuck around for some reason.

They are considered unique raptors due to their ground based hunting and can be aggressive towards vultures over carcasses. You’ll see them walking or running while hunting instead of soaring.

They also mate for life so you will often see them in pairs. When courting, the male will throw its head back and give a guttural cry.

When stressed the patch of skin on its face will change colors.

They show up in many indigenous cultural mythologies and folklore.

They are also the only species of falcon to build their own nests.

#crestedcaracara #Caracaraplancus #citizenscience #bird #native #threatenedspecies #juvenile #adult #nature #outdoors #march #march13 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day72

3.14.25

Sprenger’s Asparagus

Asparagus densiflorus

Observed 3.14.25 at home. It is a native plant from South Africa and though often used ornamentally in gardens it is considered invasive here and can outcompete native plants if left unchecked.

It is called a fern but it actually in the asparagus family and related to the edible asparagus.

It can absorb toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde making it a great indoor plant. It’s also pretty low maintenance and easy to care for.

The vibrant, green “leaves” are actually stems called cladodes. The berries and sap have toxic components so keep away from kids and pets.

#sprengersasparagus #Asparagusdensiflorus #citizenscience #sogreen #nonnative #invasive #flora #nature #outdoors #march #march14 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day73

3.15.25

Straggler Daisy

Calyptocarpus vialis

Observed 3.15.25 at home. It is native to the area and is a very common, resilient groundcover that can grow in the sun or shade. It can outcompete struggling grasses during droughts or in very shady areas.

The tiny flowers attract small pollinators. Along with the flowers, the young leaves are edible and can be added to salads.

#stragglerdaisy #Calyptocarpusvialis #citizenscience #native #flora #nature #outdoors #march #march15 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day74

3.16.25

American Alligator

Alligator mississippiensis

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 3.16.25. They are native and endemic to the southeastern US.

They are apex predators keeping the environment balanced and are a keystone species meaning they have a significant impact on their ecosystem from their activities and presence.

They can live 20-30 years in the wild, longer in captivity. They can dissolve bones in their stomachs due to the pH. Their blood enables them to resist infections due to the antimicrobial proteins. They can go through up to 3000 teeth replacements in their lifetime.

Like sea turtles, the sex of the babies is temperature dependent: warmer temps produces males and cooler temps produce females. Females build nests and guard them til the eggs hatch then she will carry them in her mouth to water.

Thankfully, alligators tend to be shy and usually avoid humans. Good thing too because they can sprint up to 35 mph on land (average human can run 6-8mph 😅) and are good climbers…scaling fences and even trees!!

Their evolutionary history goes back millions of years making them one of the oldest reptile species.

#americanalligator #alligatormississippiensis #citizenscience #alligator #reptile #threatenedspecies #native #nature #outdoors #march #march16 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day75

3.17.25

Northern Harrier also known as Marsh Hawks.

Circus hudsonius

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 3.16.25. They are the only harrier species in North America.

They hunt by sound using their excellent hearing aided by the owl-like facial discs that helps pinpoint prey beneath vegetation. They eat smaller prey such as voles, reptiles, insects, amphibians and even some birds.

Males will put on a show when courting a females and can do this with different females in one season. They build flimsy nests, usually in dense vegetation, and are very territorial over their nesting sites. The females will incubate the eggs.

They are a sexually dimorphic which means the males and females look different. I believe I caught a male in search of food. Females have more brown plumage to blend in with the vegetation.

#northernharrier #Circushudsonius #citizenscience #hawk #native #nature #outdoors #march #march17 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day76

I’m also super happy with how well the pic on the left turned out because that sucker is fast when he’s flying in his loopy loops.

3.18.25

Southern Dewberry

Rubus trivialis

Observed 3.16.25 at Galveston Island State Park.

It is native to southern US and northern Mexico.

It is a perennial herb in the rose family that flowers from March to April that attract all kinds of pollinators.

The fruit is a blackberry that all kinds of wildlife feast on as well as humans creating jams and preserves.

It is distinguished from Northern Dewberry by its hispid stems meaning it is covered in stiff, bristly stems.

It thrives in wet areas like marsh land and can live in full sun and tolerate semi-shaded areas and creates great ground cover year round.

#southerndewberry #Rubustrivialis #citizenscience #native #beforetheberries #food #nectar #flora #nature #outdoors #march #march18 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day77

[itsoctopuses]

Week 10 Observations

3.5.25

Camphor Daisy

(Rayjacksonia phyllocephala)

It is a native annual herb in the sunflower family.

It has a camphor scent when the leaves #are crushed and the plant is used by many different pollinators.

Medically it has been used to treat ailments such as heat rash and burns to name a couple.

#camphordaisy #rayjacksoniaphyllocephala #citizenscience #beach #daisy #native #flora #nature #outdoors #march #march5 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day64

3.6.25

Buzzer Midge

Chironomus plumosus

Observed on my car at home 3.6.25.

Can be pests when swarming but larvae are a source of food for fish.

It’s in the same family as mosquitos and is a non biting midge.

This one is a male, the females have sleek and not fuzzy antennae.

In spring and summer, males form a mating swarms and females lay their eggs in water. The eggs sink to the bottom where the larvae stay in their silk tubes til they hatch.

#buzzermidge #Chironomusplumosus #citizenscience #insect #nature #outdoors #march #march6 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day65

3.7.25

Red Headed Brown Anole

Anolis sagrei, red morph

Observed at home 3.7.25.

They are invasive, mostly coming here in potted plants. They will outcompete green anoles for resources.

They can change there skin color to match their surroundings. The brown anole has a few color variations including red headed.

They are social lizards with male and female territories that can overlap but are kept separate.

They can detach their tails when threatened and are also venomous though their venom is generally harmless to humans.

A female can lay 1-2 eggs every week and once the egg hatches that baby is completely independent.

I believe this one to be a female due to the pattern on its back.

#redheadedbrownanole #anolissagrei #citizenscience #anole #lizard #reptile #introduced #invasive #nature #outdoors #march #march7 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day66

3.8.25

Green Anole

Anolis carolinensis

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 3.8.25.

They are native to southeastern US from Texas to Florida and up to North Carolina. They are more abundant along the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coasts.

They can change their skin color to match their surroundings.

Males have a pink dewlap that they can display to attract females or defend territories.

Without enough tree coverage they could become locally extinct and they have to compete for resources with the invasive Cuban Brown Anole.

#greenanole #Anoliscarolinensis #citizenscience #anole #lizard #native #reptile #outdoors #nature #march #march8 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day67

3.9.25

Warty Sea Anemone

Bunodosoma cavernatum

I was beyond thrilled that I was able to observe so many anemones off the west end of the sea wall in Galveston 3.9.25.

Its range extends from North Carolina to the West Indies and you can find them in the lower part of the intertidal zone. They attach themselves to hard surfaces such as rocks, jetties, and even shells or they can bury themselves in the sand. They can also crawl though often times remain stationary.

They are nocturnal, spreading their sticky tentacles out to feed on little invertebrates and fish that come into contact with its tentacles. During the day they contract into gelatinous blobs.

They have lobular projections at their base that have stinging cells to protect themselves. These are called acrorhagi.

#wartyseaanemone #bunodosomacavernatum#citizenscience #seaanemone #invertebrates #native #nature #outdoors #march #march9 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day68

3.10.25

Orange-crowned Warbler

Leiothlypis celata

Observed 3.9.25 at Galveston Island State Park.

This species of warbler does not typically nest and breed in Texas though can be found year round due to migration or winter birds.

Despite its name you may never see the orange crown unless you spot an excited male flashing its crown.

They eat insects, spiders, seeds and fruit. They will feed their young insects like caterpillars.

#orangecrownedwarbler #leiothlypiscelata #citizenscience #bird #warbler #nonnative #nature #outdoors #march #march10 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day69

3.11.25

Carolina Satyr

Hermeuptychia sosybius

Observed 3.10.25 at the Challenger Seven Memorial Park. First described at the end of the 1700s and is an incredibly common butterfly.

This butterfly is found in Central America, Mexico and southeastern US. It is native to Texas, especially south and central.

It likes to live along forest edges and woodlands, grassy areas and shaded lawns. This one landed on some dead leaves under some trees and I nearly didn’t see it!

When the wings are opened, the top of the butterfly is a dull brown with no eye spots.

#carolinasatyr #Hermeuptychiasosybius #citizenscience #native #butterfly #insect #nature #outdoors #camoflauge #march #march11 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day70

[itsoctopuses]

Week 9 Observations

2.26.25

Roseate Spoonbill

Platalea ajaja

Though I took these at the zoo at the beginning of the month, I did spot one in a drainage ditch today while running errands!

They are native to Texas, breeding here, Louisiana and Florida. While some also winter here, most will migrate to Central and South America.

They are (currently) protected under the US Migratory Bird Act.

They get their pretty pink tones from the food they eat which contains the same organic pigment found in tomatoes, carrots and pumpkin.

At the turn of the 20th century, their beautiful, pink feathers were used in women’s fashion and were highly prized.

They often sleep standing on one leg and will swing their heads back and forth as they walk.

#roseatespoonbill spoonbill #plataleaajaja #citizenscience #bird #shorebird #zoo #wild #nature #outdoors #february #february26 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day57

2.27.25

Wax Myrtle

Morella cerifera

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 2.21.25

This is a native perennial shrub that can grow upwards of 12 feet.

It has many uses including but not limited to:

-habitat restoration, hedges, screens

-the wax from the fruit has been used in candle making

-medicinal properties

There’s, fruit, and leaves serve as food and habitat for wildlife. It’s even a good source of honey.

Many tribes have used max myrtle for its many uses throughout history including The Choctaw, Houma, Koasati, Micmac, and Seminole people.

#waxmyrtle #Morellacerifera #citizenscience #flora #native #nature #outdoors #february #february27 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day58

2.28.25

Seductive Entodon Moss

Entodon seductrix

Observed in St. Peters on 2.28.25 and it is native to Missouri.

This is a very hearty and versatile moss. It can grow (quickly) and survive in dry or wet areas, sun or shade, concrete, logs, and acidic soil.

Animals use it to make nests including birds, mice and even bumblebees!

It grows in dense mats making it good to use for moss lawns, green roofs and living walls.

They have red capsules that grow upright from the stems.

#seductiveentodonmoss #entodonseductrix #citizenscience #moss #native #nature #outdoors #february #february28 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day59

3.1.25

Star Magnolia

Magnolia stellata

Observed in Old Monroe, MO 3.1.25. And 3.30.15.

10 years ago we buried Grandma and today we had to say goodbye to Grandpa. This tree stands outside of the their church where the services were held. 10 years ago it was already in full bloom that happens each spring before the leaves grow. This year the flowers hadn’t bloomed yet but it will be soon.

It’s nonnative to Missouri but not invasive. It is native in Japan.

It can be pruned to a typical tree shape or left alone for a bushy look. When pruned it gives off a lemon scent.

#starmagnolia #Magnoliastellata #citizenscience #nonnative #nature #outdoors #march #march1 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day60

3.2.25

Stringy Stonecrop

Sedum sarmentosum

Observed in Old Monroe, MO 2.28.25. I’ve spent my whole life visiting my grandparents at the same house and this may have been my last time to ever walk their backyard gardens and to stumble upon species I’ve never seen before.

It is a succulent, vine and herb that is native in China but introduced to parts of Europe and North America. It can be very invasive in gardens especially in eastern and southern states.

Though it can outcompete native species it does help against soil erosion and absorbs CO2 efficiently.

It has been found in Asian folklore thought to be connected to longevity and prosperity due to its hardy and prolific nature. It’s also a symbol for tranquility.

#stringystonecrop #Sedumsarmentosum #citizenscience #succulent #vine #herb #march #march2 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day61

3.3.25

Norway Spruce

Picea abies

Observed in Old Monroe, MO on 3.1.25.

It is introduced to Missouri but not considered invasive, though it can take over natural forests.

It does well in the cold but struggles in the heat, compact soil and drought.

It grows fast and tall and is often used as a snow/wind break.

Some interesting uses it has includes:

-spruce beer

-violins for sound transmitting properties

-medicine

-cooking spices

#norwayspruce #Piceaabies #citizenscience #flora #evergreen #conifer #introduced #nature #outdoors #march #march3 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day62

3.4.25

Green Sea Turtle

Chelonia mydas

Observed sea turtle release on Stewart Beach, Galveston 3.4.35. They are native to the Gulf of Mexico and Texas beaches are important for nesting season. They can be spotted off the coasts of about 140 countries.

These were collected during the last cold stun group in January. They were washing up on the bay side because that area is much colder than the beach side.

If you see a stranded or sick sea turtle you can call 1-866-TURTLE-5. They are on the endangered list.

Green sea turtles get their name because their cartilage and fat turn green from the foods they eat consisting of algae and seagrass making them unique among sea turtle species.

They migrate from nesting beaches to their feeding grounds using earth’s magnetic field to navigate. The females will migrate to the beach they were born on to lay their own eggs.

They’re thought to live around 70 years old and become sexually mature around 25 years. They’re thought are the largest species of hard-shelled turtles and second largest of the sea turtles. They’re thought can also grow to be 350lbs.

#greenseaturtle #Cheloniamydas #citizenscience #coldstunnedseaturtles #rehabilitated #seaturtlerelease #beach #conservation #nature #outdoors #march #march4 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day63

[itsoctopuses]

Week 8 Observations

2.19.25

Deceiver

Laccaria laccata

Observed at home on 2.11.25. It is native to Texas and found all over North America, Europe, Mexico and Costa Rica.

These are very young mushrooms and when they age they change color becoming more pale or washed out.

These are edible though some say the stem is tough to eat. They can be pickled or dried.

They range from small to large. All the different ways it can look is where it gets the name Deceiver.

#deceiver #Laccarialaccata #citizenscience #fungus #mushroom #edible #native #nature #outdoors #february #february19 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day50

2.20.25

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 2.15.25

Is a year round resident in much of the U.S. and more northern birds will go south during winter.

It’s Latin name translates to “many tongued mimic” and are known to sing several hundred different songs! They mimic other birds, man made noises and even some frog/toad species!

They can be extremely territorial and will dive at anything that they deem a threat (including a poor, helpless golden retriever that just needed to go potty!).

#northernmockingbird #Mimuspolyglottos #citizenscience #bird #native #statebird #nature #outdoors #february #february20 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day51

2.21.25

Evergreen Bagworm Moth

Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis

Observed on 2.21.25 at Galveston Island State Park…not on a tree.

I believe this is the evergreen bagworm moth. It is native to this region.

It forms a case from silk, fecal matter and debris.

#evergreenbagwormmoth #Thyridopteryxephemeraeformis #citizenscience #moth #native #nature #outdoors #february #february21 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day52

2.22.25

Common chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum morifolium

Observed at home on 2.22.25. It has been introduced to Texas but is not considered invasive.

The flowers, stalks and leaves are all edible and have been used medicinally for thousands of years.

They are good at reducing indoor pollutants.

They are even used in some insecticides!

#commonchrysanthemum #Chrysanthemummorifolium #citizenscience #chrysanthemum #flower #garden #nature #outdoors #introduced #february #february22 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day53

2.23.25

Asian Elephant

Elephas maximus

Observed at the zoo.

They are endangered and are the largest land mammals in Asia.

They are extremely intelligent, have self-awareness, show complex behaviors and can feel compassion and grief. They live in herds led by a matriarch and have very strong familial bonds.

They can live anywhere from 60 to 80 years.

#asianelephant #Elephasmaximus #citizenscience #zoo #conservation #endangeredspecies #family #nature #outdoors #february #february23 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day54

2.24.25

Mexican Fan Palm

Washingtonia robusta

Observed at home on 2.22.24.

Native to Mexico and introduced here and other coastal regions.

Under perfect conditions these palms can grow upwards of 100 feet tall and live over 500 years. This one was about 6-7 ft tall so it’s got a long way to go!

The leaves just fold down instead of falling off and this creates a dense “skirt” that animals use to roost in.

#mexicanfanpalm #Washingtoniarobusta #citizenscience #palm #flora #introduced #nature #outdoors #february #february24 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day55

2.25.25

Hoary bowlesia

Bowlesia incana

Observed at home 2.23.25.

Native to this area, most of the southwestern US and South America. It starts growing in winter and through the spring.

It’s in the carrot family along side parsley and cilantro. Used in salads or for seasoning. Reported to not have to the same molecule that cilantro does making it taste like soap to some (including myself).

#hoarybowlesia #Bowlesiaincana #citizenscience #green #flora #nature #outdoors #february #february25 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day56

[itsoctopuses]

Week 7 Observations

2.12.25

Sinewed Bushy Lichen

Ramalina americana

Observed at home 2.11.25

Is prolific and native to the Midwest, southern Canada and eastern seaboard.

It grows exclusively on the bark of living trees.

Lichen have a plant part to produce food and a fungus part to absorb moisture and attach to the surface, it this case bark.

This lichen is sensitive to air pollution and will be the first of the lichens to disappear when pollutants are high in its natural habitat.

#sinewedbushylichen #Ramalinaamericana #citizenscience #lichen #nature #outdoors #february #february12 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day43

2.13.25

Corpus Christi Fleabane

Erigeron procumbens

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 2.13.25.

Native to the Texas coast and other areas also along the Gulf of MEXICO coast.

It has one flower head per stem, can grow up to 16 inches tall, and is procumbent (instead of standing up, it lays on the ground).

It grows in wet areas between dunes and edges of salt marshes and mudflats.

#corpuschristifleabane #Erigeronprocumbens #citizenscience #flora #nature #outdoors #february #february13 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day44

2.14.25

Lesser Flamingo 🦩

Phoeniconaias minor

Observed at the zoo. Okay, so it’s not my natural world per se but I love zoos when they do it right. So important for education and conservation.

This species of flamingo is mainly from sub-Saharan Africa with another population in India. They are “near threatened” so having them in zoos can bring awareness about their loss of habitat and population numbers due to pollution. Zoos also help the genetic pool stay diverse, adding to the wild population if needed.

They are the smallest of the 6 flamingo species.

They get their beautiful colors from the algae they consume. They are filter feeders with their heads upside down as shown here.

They are social birds, living in flocks called a flamboyance, and communicate using group displays.

Both the females and males produce nutritious crop milk to feed their chicks.

What’s not to love?!

#lesserflamingo #Phoeniconaiasminor #citizenscience #flamingo #juvenile #adult #zoo #conservation #nature #outdoors #february #february14 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day45

2.15.25

Chocolate-band Snail

Eobania vermiculata

Observed at home 2.15.25

This species is native to Spain, Greece and Ukraine and was accidentally introduced to Texas, Louisiana and California.

It is considered a minor pest but could be a major problem for native snail species, human health, and agriculture and ecosystems as a whole. Especially if the populations are larger than they are currently thought to be now.

They can live up to 5 years and lay as many as 70 eggs over their lifetime.

#chocolatebandsnail #Eobaniavermiculata #citizenscience #snail #invasive #nature #outdoors #february #february15 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day46

2.16.25

Red Imported Fire Ant

Solenopsis invicta

Observed 2.16.25 at Galveston Island State Park.

Native to South America and very invasive here in Texas.

They are very aggressive with a stinger and 3 teeth! Its venom is its main weapon and symptoms range from fire like stinging sensation and pustules all the way to anaphylaxis that if left unchecked could be fatal.

They build huge nests for the colony but you won’t see the entrances because the workers emerge far from the actually nest! A nest can hold up to 250,000 ants. Some nests can have multiple queens (polygynous) while others may have just one queen (monogynous).

It is one of the most studied insects in the world even rivaling the western honey bee!

#redimportedfireant #Solenopsisinvicta #citizenscience #fireants #invasive #nature #outdoors #february #february16 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day47

2.17.25

Yellow jessamine

Gelsemium sempervirens

Observed near home 2.17.25

Native in Texas to Virginia and the subtropical/tropical Americas.

It has a few other common names including yellow jasmine but is not a true jasmine plant.

All parts of this plant are toxic and should not be consumed and is especially lethal for livestock. Even the nectar is toxic to honey bees and has been known to kill off entire hives.

And yet it’s pretty so it is found in many gardens.

#yellowjessamine #Gelsemiumsempervirens #citizenscience #native #flower #outdoors #nature #february #february17 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day48

2.18.25

Eastern Phoebe

Sayornis phoebe

Observed 2.12.25 at Galveston Island State Park.

They are native to Texas, breeding and wintering here.

They will fly back and forth to the same perch while catching insects and will wag their tail while perched.

It was the first banded bird species in North America by John James Audubon.

#easternphoebe #Sayornisphoebe #citizenscience #bird #native #nature #outdoors #february #february18 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day49

[itsoctopuses]

Week 6 Observations

2.5.25

Henbit Deadnettle

Lamium amplexicaule

Observed on 2.4.25

It is native to North Africa, Europe and Asia and has been introduced and has naturalized in North & South America and some other countries. It is considered an invasive weed in Texas, producing thousands of seeds and can even self pollinate.

It is in the mint family and can be used in salads or tea and has medicinal properties.

Some call it Fairy Horns because you can pluck the flower of and blow into like a horn. I just used it in my mud pies 😂

This is one of the weeds that the Seven-spotted Lady Beetle was climbing over.

#henbitdeadnettle #Lamiumamplexicaule #citizenscience #weed #yard #henbit #invasive #nature #outdoors #february #february5 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day36

2.6.25

Eastern Cottontail

Sylvilagus floridanus

Observed 2.4.25

It is native to North America and is the most common rabbit species found here.

They can run up to 18 mph and use a zigzag pattern to escape predators such as birds of prey and foxes (or me with my camera!).

They have a brief gestation period of about 27 days, up to four times a year, with no more than 8 babies each time. They nest in shallow holes covered with grass and hair. (I got to see one last spring, so cool!) The babies are born completely helpless and within 5 weeks are out on the own!

#easterncottontail #sylvilagusfloridanus #citizenscience #rabbit #native #mammal #nature #outdoors #february #february6 #2024 #picoftheday #project365 #day37

2.7.25

Common Dandelion

Taraxacum officinale

Observed 2.7.25

Considered invasive in Texas. It’s believed to have been introduced to North America from the Mayflower, brought on the voyage for medicinal purposes. Though it is adaptable to many environments it does not usually outcompete native species for resources. Most people find it a nuisance when in their yard but they can protect against erosion due to their long root system (up to 15ft), loosen up hard packed soil and aerate the earth. The roots can even draw deeply buried nutrients to the surface for other plants and they actually fertilize the grass instead of killing it!

Throughout history, the dandelion has been a beloved flower in the Old World for its beauty and healing qualities. Every part of the dandelion can be eaten or used in teas and tonics.

A single dandelion can live for years, producing thousands of seeds over that time making them nearly impossible to get rid of.

They’re also one of my favorite plants and for my birthday instead of candles to blow out I had these! So many wishes!

#commondandelion #Taraxacumofficinale #citizenscience #dandelion #invasive #wildflower #weed #nature #outdoors #wishes #february #february7 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day38

2.8.25

Common Bladder Moss

Physcomitrium pyriforme

Observed 2.8.25

Native to every continent except Antarctica and South America. It is most commonly found in wet and disturbed areas such as river banks. This was seen along the side of apartments.

Moss is good for temperature control, cooling the ground in warm areas and warming the ground in cool areas. Because it is a survived it is seen as a symbol of resilience.

This would be a good moss to have in your home because it is an air purifier, soaking up pollutants like a sponge in exchange for oxygen. Outside it has the ability to enrich the soil for surrounding plants that are struggling.

These photos have been magnified.

#commonbladdermoss #Physcomitriumpyriforme #citizenscience #moss #macro #native #nature #outdoors #february #february8 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day39

2.9.25

American Robin

Turdus migratorius

Observed 2.7.25

They are native to Texas and most of the U.S. Numbers grow in the fall and winter when migration from Canada happens.

I’m not positive if that is a Robin nest that that one is in because they’re usually cup shaped (and seem to be neater in other photos I’ve seen). The males are the only ones that sing using it to find mates and protect nesting territories.

Cowbirds will lay their eggs in a Robin’s nest but studies show that the Robin is very good at spotting the parasite’s egg and getting rid of it before it can take resources from the robin chicks.

They eat insects, berries and earthworms. When on the hunt for worms they will tilt their head so they can get a good look at the ground and where to strike. That is what the other picture is showing.

#americanrobin #Turdusmigratorius #citizenscience #robin #birds #native #nature #outdoors #february #february9 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day40

2.10.25

Shepherd’s Purse

Capsella bursa-pastoris

Observed 2.8.25

Invasive in Texas and is one of the most common weeds in the world.

It is in the mustard family and all parts of the plant are edible and has been used medicinally and in Chinese cuisine.

One plant can produce 2000-3000 seed pods! The heart shaped pods release the copper colored seeds and will wait to germinate when the soil is disturbed.

#shepherdspurse #Capsellabursapastoris #citizenscience #invasive #wildflower #weed #nature #outdoors #february #february10 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day41

2.11.25

Hairy Hexagonia

Hexagonia hydnoides

Observed 2.11.25 at home

It is native to Texas and if found in more tropical areas of the Americas. It grows on dead hardwoods. It is a plant pathogen and decays dead wood tissues. This is called saprophytic.

It gets its name from the hard, hairy bristles on the cap.

And has been used for medicinal purposes.

#hairyhexagonia #Hexagoniahydnoides #citizenscience #fungi #native #nature #outdoors #february #february11 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day42

[itsoctopuses]

Week 5 Observations

1.29.25

Saltwort

Batis maritima

Observed at Galveston Island State park 1.29.25. It is native to Texas and is found on sandy beaches, salt marshes, and mangroves. It is considered a pioneer plant which is a species of plant that is the first to grow in areas where natural disasters have occurred (like hurricanes) and enables the more complex plant species to take root later on. It is able to do this because it can handle harsher conditions with less nutrients than other species. Such an important plant for the health of our marshes!

Native Americans have eaten saltwort raw, cooked or even pickles! The roots can be chewed like sugar cane and boiled into beverages.

Fun fact: the ashes of saltwort have been used to make soaps and glass because the sodium levels are so high.

#saltwort #Batismaritima #citizenscience #flora #plant #heartyplant #pioneerplant #nature #outdoors #january #january29 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day29

1.30.25

Splitgill Mushroom

Schizophyllum commune

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 1.30.25. I spotted these tiny (~1-2cm) mushrooms on a decaying stick in the dunes.

The caps are covered in white hairs. This mushroom can stay dry for decades and then be revived by moisture!

It’s a tough, rubbery mushroom that has been eaten in tropical countries over tender mushrooms that rot so quickly in the humidity.

Yet they also can cause allergic reactions and fungal infections. Don’t go inhaling their spores!

These mushrooms have the highest amount of sexes than any other species with over 28,000!! This guarantees diversity of genetic material is much higher.

What a wild little mushroom!

#splitgillmushroom #Schizophyllumcommune #citizenscience #mushroom #fungus #nature #outdoors #january #january30 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day30

1.31.25

White-speck Moth

Mythimna unipuncta

Observed at Galveston Island State Park (moths seem to love our breeze way) 1.29.25

It is native to North and South America. Introduced to Africa, Europe & Asia. It is a nocturnal agricultural pest. Another name for it is armyworm moth and it gets this name from the caterpillars that line up in huge groups and move from crop to crop damaging them. Apparently corn is a favorite though they will eat a large variety of crops.

Fun fact: an adult can fly 62 miles in one night!

#whitespeckmoth #Mythimnaunipuncta #citizenscience #moth #nature #outdoors #insect #january #january31 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day31

2.1.25

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

Observed 1.28.25 at Galveston Island State Park. It is not native to Texas but is a common winter visitor. It is believed that the ones visiting Galveston are most likely from Iceland or Greenland.

They are omnivores eating seeds, berries, eggs, chicks, small mammals & birds, sea stars, mollusks and fish, like this Atlantic Needlefish.

Their call is similar to the Herring Gull and sounds like a laughing cry.

#lesserblackbackedgull #Larusfuscus #citizenscience #bird #fish #animals #nature #outdoors #february #february1 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day32

2.2.25

Bushy Bluestem

Andropogon glomeratus

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 2.2.25.

It is a native prairie grass to Texas and is widespread across the Americas.

It provides food and habitat to song birds a some butterfly larvae.

In the growing season the grass is green but is this luscious copper color in the fall/winter.

Unlike other bluestem species the bushy bluestem thrives in moist areas, like wetlands and around ponds!

Some Native American tribes even use the roots to treat poison ivy.

#bushybluestem #Andropogonglomeratus #citizenscience #prairie #grass #nature #outdoors #february #february2 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day33

2.3.25

Common Chickweed

Stellaria media

Observed 2.3.25

Native to Europe, invasive weed in Texas and most of America.

It is a cool weather annual that grows in dense mats. It out competes nature spring plants by taking nutrients and sun from them.

Each plant can produce 600-1500 seeds and those seeds can be viable for years! Not good when it’s an invasive species.

Besides spreading through seeds it also spreads vegetatively due to its fibrous roots. So if you are weeding make sure to dispose of the plant material because it will reroot if you don’t.

Interesting fact I learned is that it can store plant viruses and pests!

#commonchickweed #Stellariamedia #citizenscience #weed #invasivespecies #nature #outdoors #february #february3 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day34

2.4.25

Seven-spotted Lady Beetle

(Coccinella septempunctata)

Observed 2.4.25

This species was introduced to North America 3 separate times and finally took hold in the 1970s. They’re used to control aphid populations on crops because it is a carnivorous beetle. It has since become invasive, taking resources from native species.

The bright color of this species is used to warn would be predators away and they will secrete a toxic fluid from their leg joints when threatened making them taste bad.

I watched this one climb all over leaves, grass and weeds. They’re quite nimble for being so bulky!

#sevenspottedladybeetle #coccinellaseptempunctata #citizenscience #ladybug #insect #nature #outdoors #february #february4 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day35

[itsoctopuses]

Week 4 Observations

1.22.25

Fox Squirrel

Sciurus niger

Observed in the snow, eating a snack and licking ice on a tree limb at home on Galveston Island 1.22.25. You can see its tongue 😛

They are native to North America and is the most common of tree squirrels. They are on the invasive alien species of Union concern list in Europe.

Their whiskers, claws, abs and more help them navigate their environment. The habitat they thrive in the most are areas with tall trees and little to no understory. They live in leaf nests or tree dens (preferred).

Fun fact: they can jump 15 feet horizontally and free fall to a soft landing of 20 feet or more!

#foxsquirrel #Sciurusniger #citizenscience #mammal #outdoors #nature #squirreltongue #native #january #january22 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day22

1.23.25

White-winged Dove

Zenaida asiatica

Their native range includes the Southwestern US and down to Central America and has expanded to Texas and surrounding states due to humans providing a reliable food source. Before agriculture exploded they stuck to their native range because their primary food/water source was the saguaro cactus.

I observed this one and its friends in a tree at my home on Galveston Island 1.22.25.

Though this species has lost nesting colonies, is on the wild game list and suffered a population collapse in the 1960s & 1970s it appears to have bounced back and is good at adapting to life with humans.

#whitewingeddove #Zenaidaasiatica #citizenscience #bird #nature #outdoors #january #january23 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day23

1.24.25

Dunlin

Calidris alpina

Observed these non breeding adults at Galveston Island State park 1.21.25.

While they winter along the coast they migrate to the arctic tundra to breed.

The population is very big and have a status of “least concern” yet appears to be decreasing and there are some subspecies that are quite endangered.

These birds forage for food on coastal mudflats and sandy beaches in flocks by poking their slightly curved bill in and out of the sand/mud. What’s cool about this is that their bill become a sensitive probe when an area on the end of the bill fills with blood and works with nerve endings that helps locate food.

#dunlin #Calidrisalpina #citizenscience #birds #water #nature #outdoors #january #january24 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day24

1.25.25

Savannah Sparrow

Passerculus sandwichensis

Observed near Galveston Island State Park on 1.23.25.

They’re common to Texas and winter here. Then they fly north to breed.

This one was foraging for seeds and insects in the grass.

Their nests are usually hidden very well on the ground in grass or weeds.

Fun fact, they often return to the same area where they hatched from each year!

#savannahsparrow #Passerculussandwichensis #citizenscience #bird #nature #outdoors #january #january25 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day25

1.26.25

Common Raccoon

Procyon lotor

Observed on the east end of Galveston Island on 1.26.25. There’s a huge committee (collective noun) of raccoons that live there, probably because people feed them. Usually their diets consist of a mix of plants and different animals.

They are native to North America. They’ve adapted past their original habitats and can be found almost anywhere in North America.

The most important sense they have is touch with highly sensitive front paws. They’re are very smart and studies have shown they are able to remember a solution to a problem for up to 3 years!

#commonraccoon #Procyonlotor

#citizenscience #raccoon #mammal #outdoors #nature #january #january26 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day26

1.27.25

Firestick

Euphorbia tirucalli

My friend gave me a few cuttings from her plant. I am not a plant person so we’ll see how this goes. It’s very pretty though.

It’s native to Africa and not invasive here but makes for a pretty ornamental plant.

It’s interesting she has this plant because it thrives well in a low humidity area 😆 The more I learn about this plant the less I think I’ll be able to keep it alive.

It produces a latex (sticky plant fluid) that is quite toxic but is also used to feed cows in places. Makes me wonder about the cows!

#firestick #Euphorbiatirucalli #citizenscience #succulent #plant #outdoors #indoors #nature #january #january27 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day27

1.28.25

Giant Atlantic Cockle

Dinocardium robustum

This large, saltwater clam can be found all along the North American coast, the Gulf of Mexico and in the Caribbean. This particular shell was observed on Galveston Island beach 1.26.25.

We’ve been having extreme low and high tides and these beautiful shells are usually found when the tide is very low.

They use their foot to burrow into the sand and also “leap” away from predators like sea stars!

Though this shell was just one half I have been lucky enough to come across some that still had their inhabitants.

#giantatlanticcockle #Dinocardiumrobustum #citizenscience #shell #beach #nature #outdoors #january #january28 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day28

[itsoctopuses]

Week 3 observations:

1.15.25

Common Snapdragon

Antirrhinum majus

Observed at home on Galveston Island.

This is not native but also not invasive to Texas. It’s found in gardens and is great for our pollinators, including hummingbirds. They are cool season annuals, come in a variety of colors, the florets are edible and they’re even deer resistant due to the bright colors and distinctive shape! The reason for the name, snapdragon, is because when you pinch the sides of the flower it looking like a dragon’s mouth snapping open.

#commonsnapdragon #Antirrhinummajus #citizenscience #flora #flowers #garden #nature #outdoors #january #january15 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day15

1.16.25

Channeled Duck Clam

Raeta plicatella

Observed all along Galveston Island beaches. I’ve only ever seen the empty shell halves but apparently the clam lives in the sandy shallows outside the surf zone. They’re native to Texas and I’ve seen them wash ashore year round, especially after drastic tide changes and storms. The shells are very thin and crunch like fall leaves. Crunched up shells add to the composition of the beach and it’s therapeutic!

#channeledduckclam #Raetaplicatella #citizenscience #clamshell #shells #crunchedshells #beach #nature #outdoors #january #january16 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day16

1.17.25

Milkweed Assassin Bug

Zelus longipes

Native to this area.

Observed at the beach on Galveston Island though it’s usually found in gardens and landscapes. It looks a little creepy but if you see one leave it be because it preys on pests like beetles, caterpillars and even mosquitoes. Its bite may hurt due to the salivary secretion it uses to dissolve the tissues of its prey but in a human it’s not serious.

#milkweedassassinbug #Zeluslongipes #citizenscience #truebug #nativespecies #insect #beach #january #january17 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day17

1.18.2025

Bur Clover

Medicago polymorpha

Introduced from the Mediterranean Basin and is invasive in Texas.

Observed at Galveston Island State Park at 1.18.25. It’s usually found in moist open habitats. This was taken in the middle of a trail at the park directly behind the dunes.

Is considered a pest due to the burs and can be toxic to livestock.

#burclover #Medicagopolymorpha #citizenscience #invasivespecies #nature #outdoors #january #january18 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day18

1.19.25

African Cotton Leafworm Moth

Spodoptera littoralis

My app actually identified this as an oriental leafworm moth, but under the description of that particular moth it hasn’t really made its way over to the US whereas the African cotton leafworm moth has, and the only way to tell the difference between the two is looking at its genitalia and I can tell you I did not do that. 🤣

Both species are considered pests and can devastate crops so different methods of control have been created.

Observed at Galveston Island State Park 1.19.25.

#africancottonleafwormmoth #Spodopteralittoralis #citizenscience #moth #insect #invasive #january #january19 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day19

1.20.25

American Coot

Fulica americana

Observed at home on Galveston Island on 1.20.25. The are common and native to North America. They live in Texas year round.

They are not ducks even though they look like them. Instead of webbed feet they have broad, loved scales on their toes and legs.

A group of coots is called a raft.

Fun fact, they usually build floating nests and lay 8-10 eggs per clutch!

#americancoot #Fulicaamericana #citizenscience #birds #bayou #nativespecies #outdoors #nature #january #january20 #2025 #picoftheday #project365

1.21.25

Least Sandpiper

Calidris minutilla

We weren’t the only ones out today! Observed at Galveston Island State Park on a snowy 1.21.25! Even saw them catch a couple fish!

These little guys are the smallest of the shore birds. They winter here on the coast and migrate north to breed. The females will leave early so the babies will feed themselves and are ready to fly in 2 weeks from hatching!

They will probe the muddy shores for invertebrates (and sometimes small fish…though I didn’t actually witness them eating the fish).

#leastsandpiper #Calidrisminutilla #citizenscience #snowday #marsh #shorebirds #native #nature #outdoors #january #january21 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day21

[itsoctopuses]

Week 2 observations:

1.8.25

Crimson bottlebrush

Melaleuca citrina

In the Myrtle family. Native to Australia and apparently one of the first plants to be taken from Australia. It is hardy and is on the federal noxious weeds list. I find that interesting since it’s been planted in my complex. Surely, native plants could look just as good 🤷🏻‍♀️

Observed at home on Galveston Island 1.6.25 & 1.8.25.

#crimsonbottlebrush #Melaleucacitrina #citizenscience #nature #outdoors #pest #january #january8 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day8

1.9.25

Blue-tailed Damselfly

Ischnura elegans

This might be an adult male. It is a European species.

Observed on Galveston Island Seawall on 1.5.25.

I stopped to get pictures of the front over the water and this little guy landed for a quick rest.

#bluetaileddamselfly #Ischnuraelegans #citizenscience #storm #beach #insect #nature #outdoors #january #january9 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day9

1.10.25

Prickly Sowthistle

Sonchus asper

Another invasive species here in Texas. It’s native to Eurasia, is in the same tribe as the dandelion and is edible though you’d want to attempt this with a young plant before it gets too spiny!

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 1.10.25.

I had fun capturing it’s reflection

#pricklysowthistle #Sonchusasper #citizenscience #nature #outdoors #invasive #flora #january #january10 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day10

1.11.25

Gulf Coast Toad

Incilius valliceps

They are 1 of 10 true toads in Texas. They are native to Texas. This could be a young female.

Observed at Galveston Island State Park on 1.11.25.

I picked 3 large fire ants off this poor toad!!

#gulfcoasttoad #Inciliusvalliceps #citizenscience #nature #outdoors #truetoad #january #january11 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day11

1.12.25

Sea Purslane

Sesuvium portulacastrum

It was raining all day so I didn’t get a chance to get something today. This was observed 1.11.25 at Galveston Island State Park.

It is native to Texas and much of the world. Also has naturalized in places it’s been introduced. It’s a sprawling perennial herb used in food and medicine around the world. They even pickle it in the Philippines!

#seapurslane #Sesuviumportulacastrum #citizenscience #beach #herb #flora #nature #outdoors #january #january12 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day12

1.13.25

Sanderling

Calidris alba

Observed on Galveston Island 1.13.25.

Because it’s in its non breeding winter plumage I don’t know if it’s a male or female.

They can travel great distances to their breeding grounds.

They run along the beach, “chasing waves” and feel on invertebrates buried in the sand.

#sanderling #Calidrisalba #citizenscience #bird #beach #nature #outdoors #january #january13 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day13

1.14.25

Surinam cockroach

Pycnoscelus surinamensis

This is an invasive species to Texas and other regions coming from the Indomalayan region. It is not considered an indoor pest though you might find one occasionally in your home. They are also referred to as the greenhouse cockroach. It burrows in loose soil and will come out at night to eat soft plants. They are almost all female having evolved to reproduce parthenogenetically, where the embryos develop from unfertilized eggs.

Some critters will show me getting out of my comfort zone and this is one of those times. I hate roaches but I want to show more than just the “pretty” side of nature. This was observed at Galveston Island state park 1.3.25

#surinamcockroach #Pycnoscelussurinamensis #citizenscience #insect #nature #outdoors #january #january14 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day14

[itsoctopuses]

Week 1 observations:

1.1.25

Mournful Sphinx Moth

Enyo lugubris

Sighted 12.28.24 at 1642 (I’m using it anyway because it was just a few days ago and I probably won’t see another) on Galveston, Island.

Range: from central South America to central North America

Hopefully the only thing mournful this year is this sphinx moth I observed!

This year’s theme is Citizen Science. I’m going to identity a different species each day and by the end of the year I’ll have a nice little guide to the natural world around me!

#mournfulsphinxmoth #Enyolugubris #citizenscience #moth #lookaround #outside #nature #january #january1 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day1 #year11

Observed again at Galveston Island State Park 1.30.25

1.2.25

Chinese or lacebark elm

Ulmus parvifolia

Observed 1.2.25 on Galveston Island at 1712.

Range: though you can find all through the US and other countries, it was introduced from East Asia.

This particular tree is in my complex and it is a favorite of mine because of the bark. Makes a really interesting detail to macro shots! Almost like puzzle pieces.

That being said, it is considered an invasive species here in Texas due to being a resilient tree so it can outcompete native plants.

Shame it’s so pretty.

#chineseelm #lacebarkelm #Ulmusparvifolia #citizenscience #tree #bark #nature #outdoors #invasivespecies #january #january2 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day2

1.3.25

I found 3 egg cases belonging to the Family of Mantids, though I’m unsure which species it belongs to. Possibly a Carolina Mantis or European (Thanks to my Aunt Peggy!).

The female needs a sturdy limb or structure to hold her while she creates the case. I found one on the curb and 2 on wooden support beams.

I’m sure it’s dependent of speeches but they could’ve been laid sometime between Sept and Oct, with a 4-8 week time before hatching. With our weather here I’m curious if they can lay the eggs later than Oct. Maybe I’ll get to see some babies here soon! Each case can hold 100-200 babies!

Sighted at Galveston Island State Park at 1345.

#mantids #mantideggcase #eggcase #citizenscience #outdoors #nature #january #january3 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day3

1.4.25

Japanese honeysuckle

Lonicera japonica

Observed at Galveston Island State Park at 1355.

The range is quite extensive in America and Europe but can be found in most regions. It is native to Eastern Asia.

This plant smells really nice but it is a highly invasive vine and will out compete native plants for their resources.

It will be interesting to see how many species I identify this year that are invasive.

#japanesehoneysuckle #Lonicerajaponica #citizenscience #invasivespecies #outdoors #nature #january #january4 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day4

1.5.25

Portuguese man o’ war

Physalia physalis

Observed off the seawall on Galveston Island on 1.5.25 at 0714.

Range anywhere subtropical but are most commonly found in the Gulf Stream.

Not invasive to the Gulf of Mexico.

Fun fact: Portuguese man o’ wars are NOT jellyfish! It is actually a siphonophore, a community of organisms, that float on the surface of the ocean. The name comes from looking like a sailing warship which is an apt name since the venomous sting packs a punch. It can kill fish and in a few cases even humans! I photographed one hidden by seafoam so watch your step!

#portuguesemanowar #Physaliaphysalis #citizenscience #notajellyfish #beach #sunrise #nature #outdoors #january #january5 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day5

I posted this one on a Galveston page and have received over 650 reactions! Most I’ve ever received! I can’t wait to print some of these off. Love them!

1.6.25

Yellow-Crowned Night Heron

Nyctanassa violacea

Juveniles and adults

Observed at home on Galveston Island at 1228 on 1.6.25

Range: they are all along the Texas coast year round.

These guys were all hanging out in a tree out back and let me come pretty close and just hang out with them.

#yellowcrownednightheron #Nyctanassaviolacea #citizenscience #birds #herons #juvenile #adult #january #january6 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day6

1.7.25

Black-Crowned Night Heron

Nycticorax nycticorax

Observed at my home on Galveston Island at 1154 on 1.6.25. Adult and juvenile.

Range: widely found on most continents unlike the Yellow-Crowned Night Heron. Here it is found year round.

Unlike the Yellow-crowned ones I spent time with yesterday, this species is a bit more timid and they flew off as soon as I got close.

#blackcrownednightheron #Nycticoraxnycticorax #citizenscience #herons #birds #adult #juvenile #outdoors #nature #january #january7 #2025 #picoftheday #project365 #day7

First week down, only 51 to go!

[itsoctopuses]

New year, new theme, new blog! This year I’m going to identify a different species each day. This will be a weekly blog to showcase what I see. I’ll be using Seek app and my guide books along with internet resources to add facts to go with my observations. I’m constantly learning and not everything is an easy id so if you see something that I may have mislabeled let me know! I will also have observations from other days but I’m trying to keep them close to reflect what I’m seeing in that particular season. At the end of the year I’ll have a little guide to the natural world around me. I’ll revisit old favorites like dandelions, oyster mushrooms, and cardinals but also observe many new species!