The Swamp, the Spider, the Snake!

Welcome to the Honey Island Swamp! Here are a few pictures showing you our immediate outdoor surroundings.

Now for a couple of challenge questions regarding the pictures below:

1. What is the transparent material hanging from the trees?

2. Do you see those two "stump-like" things to the right of the three trees in the first picture below? These growths serve a very important purpose in the survival of trees in this environment. Can you tell me what they are and what their function is?

3. Why do the trunks of the trees in the second picture widen so dramatically as they approach the water?

One day during our caterpillar search in the swamp, we met a local hunter named Richard. He shared with us his experiences here with the elusive ivory-billed woodpecker, a species that was previously thought to be extinct. It was very interesting. We told him about our hunt for caterpillars.

Sometimes the areas we are searching for caterpillars in are very difficult to access. This is because remnants of Hurricane Katrina are still widespread - evident in the form of numerous fallen trees. As you can see, it was a challenge for me to set up my tape to mark the hunting plot.

Another challenge in our search for caterpillars is avoiding natural hazards. Quite common are these huge spiders with gigantic webs, sometimes spanning twelve or more feet!

I have also heard stories of past encounters with water moccasins, but luckily, we have only come across baby snakes.

Keep blogging. I will talk to you tomorrow.