All things living

It isn't difficult and it only requires a spontaneous second to look around and spot life, even if in the smallest form.

Here are just a few examples of living organisms that my family and I have encountered in our numerous outings to various nature parks and trails.

Trekking through Comanche Park in San Antonio,TX. One of our many family-treks throughout the year.

In my opinion, the state of boredom is for the boring. Similarly, I believe that technology and its conveniences are a privilege and not necessarily a right. So within the last two years, I have been diligently working and aiming to instill an appreciation of the outdoors in my two sons.

Working our way up the Texas Hill Country's very own, Enchanted Rock.

With such a mild climate like ours here in South Texas, beautiful days for outdoor play are easy to find. With careful preparation and appropriate precautions, one can even enjoy the hottest of summer days outdoors. Our personal routine often includes: an early start, hydration, snack/lunch, walking stick and first aid supplies.  

Bountiful field of Texas wildflowers found along Baumberger Nature Park in San Antonio, TX.

Whilst on our various hikes and treks we've encountered a plethora of wildlife of various shape, form and species. We've photographed four legged creatures, animals of flight, slithering snakes, and interesting insects.

  



White-tail deer seen at Enchanted Rock.

Beautiful cardinal enjoying the beauty of Enchanted Rock.

South Texas quail spotted at Nanez Ranch (San Antonio, TX)

One of our biggest thrills and scares came during the first few minutes of one of our very first treks last summer when we caught a quick glimpse of a coral snake.

The infamous jingle, "... red touch yellow, kills a fellow. Red touch black, friend of Jack," has not left my memory since this experience.

By keeping a keen eye and an interested awareness, you can spot even some of the smallest or camoflaged organisms. (Pictured to the right is a stick-bug crawling the grounds of Texas' own Natural Bridge Caverns).

Crawly caterpillar inching its way across a paved path at Comanche Park.

While I personally encourage and enjoy the adventures of our outdoor escapes, I also want my children to realize that the beauty of nature can also be found in their very own backyard and not solely at"designated nature parks." Within our own yard we've found beautiful bluebonnets, an appealing apple tree and even Mud Swallow bird nests.





Mud Swallows nested in our home's porch overhang, These birds return yearly to rebuild and nest their eggs.

http://www.naturalbridgecaverns.com/
www.sanantonio.gov/sapar/
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/