Where the Wild Things Are (Vol. 1, Ed. 5): Of Course I'm Sending a Letter - it's World Animal Day!
Brandi D. Addison
Journalist in West Texas l Adjunct Faculty at Texas Tech l Writer
Because who wouldn't want to celebrate animals everywhere today?
(Subscribe to the email version here!)
Whew, this political season has been a busy one!?But that's the beauty of a 'non-scheduled, no-structure' newsletter, as I mentioned in the first edition — I can catch up whenever I have the time.
Between the Democratic National Convention, both debates, Hurricane Helene and the remainder of the?155 stories (literally)?that?I've published since last newsletter, I've only managed to sprinkle in a few about wildlife.?
Regardless, I'm excited to share what I do have — especially now that we're celebrating World Wildlife Day.?I even wrote a story about it,?here!
???? In the Wild
Personal works, covering all things wild flora and fauna
?? 1. Caldwell Zoo hatches more than 70 horned lizards this year, as Dallas Zoo also see its largest hatchling group
Caldwell Zoo?in Tyler and?Dallas Zoo?are making significant strides in the recovery of the Texas horned lizard, the official state reptile of Texas.
Since August 2021, Caldwell Zoo’s Conservation Center has hatched over 70 baby horned lizards this year alone. The Dallas Zoo recently announced its largest clutch to date, adding 18 new hatchlings to its population.
The effort, supported by the?Fort Worth Zoo,?Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, and the?Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, is part of a statewide plan to restore the species.
The background: The Texas horned lizard, also known as the horny toad, has been listed as threatened since 1967 due to habitat loss and food shortages. It lives across Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and New Mexico, and thrives in arid ecosystems.
What’s next:?Continued conservation efforts are crucial for restoring the population. Habitat restoration and breeding programs are essential to reversing the decline and ensuring the species' survival. Read more.
?
???2. Invasive Pacu fish, part of the piranha family, was found in a lake in the Texas Panhandle
A resident in the Texas Panhandle captured an invasive pacu fish at Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, northeast of Amarillo, on Tuesday.
The pacu, a South American freshwater fish related to the piranha, was likely a pet that outgrew its aquarium. These fish can reach over 3 feet in length and weigh up to 88 pounds.
Why it matters: Pacu fish, known for their human-like teeth and vegetarian diet, are not native to Texas. Past sightings include a 7.95-pound pacu in the Concho River in 2012 and a red-bellied pacu in the San Marcos River in 2006.
What you should do: If you catch or spot an invasive fish, dispatch it quickly and humanely. Possession or transport of such species may be illegal. Report sightings with details and photos using the U.S. Geological Survey Report form. Read more.
???3. Your worst nightmare - venomous prickly fireworms - is washing up on Texas beaches?
Your worst nightmare has emerged along the Texas coast — that's how experts have described it, at least. Venomous prickly fireworms are being found on beaches near Corpus Christi and Port Aransas. The Harte Research Institute for the Gulf of Mexico Studies at Texas A&M University in Corpus Christi reports that these marine polychaetes, also known as bristle worms, are showing up on large logs, feeding on gooseneck barnacles.
What’s the buzz: Prickly fireworms, scientifically known as Hermodice carunculata, are usually found in coral reefs and rocky areas. They extend their bristles, filled with neurotoxins, as a defense mechanism, causing intense pain when touched. The worms, which can grow up to 35 cm (over a foot), might be more prevalent due to changing ocean currents or weather patterns.
What to do: Beachgoers should be cautious and avoid contact. If stung, use adhesive tape to remove the bristles and avoid touching the affected area. Sensitivity at the sting site can persist for weeks. Read more.
领英推荐
???4. A Texas angler caught a 71-pound smallmouth buffalo fish at Lady Bird Lake in Austin, breaking the state record
An angler set a new state record for smallmouth buffalo at Lady Bird Lake in Austin this summer.
Austin Anderson caught an impressive 71-pound smallmouth buffalo on June 10, using just a rod and reel, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
The honors: Anderson received the Big Fish Award, Water Body Record, Water Body Catch-and-Release Record, and the State Catch-and-Release Record for his catch.
Other records: A 59-pound smallmouth buffalo caught fly fishing in 1997 and a 44.8-pound bow fishing record set in 2017 still stand. Read more. ?
???5. Hurricane Helene battered North Carolina's mountain trails. Now, mules are vital for delivering crucial supplies
When all modern conveniences are washed away, the reliable mule remains steadfast.
Once-familiar trails have transformed into treacherous landscapes, buried under a chaotic jumble of fallen trees, thick brush, and jagged debris. Where vehicles can't go, mules navigate narrow paths, their hooves steady as they maneuver through the storm-ravaged terrain to deliver essential supplies to remote areas. The storm’s toll:
Mules to the rescue: As Appalachian communities confront devastation, the mule stands out as an unsung hero. With each determined step, these resilient animals symbolize hope as they navigate through rubble to assist those in need.? From cleaning supplies and canned foods to hygiene products, blankets, clothing — and even a teddy bear with a note of support from a young donor — the mules have tirelessly carried load after load, shouldering the burdens that the people of Appalachia can no longer bear.
What they’re saying: "They have had many roles in their careers, from hauling camping gear and fresh hunt, pulling wagons and farm equipment; to serving in training the best of the very best of our military special forces, carrying weapons, medical supplies, and even wounded soldiers," Mountain Mule Packers Ranch wrote on Facebook. Read more.
Coming Soon
???Beyond the Wild
Taking a step beyond the wild, this section features personal coverage over a wider range of?environmental and political issues. ?
?? Wild Finds
Stepping outside personal coverage and sharing excellent work from others.
Send story ideas and feedback my way! I'm always happy to hear :) [email protected]?|?www.brandidaddison.com