Day 1

When first arriving at Harvard Gultch I was quite disappointed. Most of the most "naturey" spots were enclosed by the gates of the golf course, so I was worried I chose a bad location. However, when looking further, there was actually much more to see that was open to the public, such as the other half of the golf pond, (where I spent most of my time today).

Rusty Crawfish

Though the pond seemed empty at first, I was able to spot some crawdads hidden in the rocks. Rusty crayfish, like most crustaceans, shed a bunch in their adolesence, and overtime they shed less and less until they no longer have the energy to take off their old armor and therefore grow. We can see the shedded shell of a young crawdad pictured to the left.

The crawdad pictured here lost his right claw, and it should take a few months to regrow. Their resillence, ability to regenerate, and aggressivness are all reasons why crayfish are terribly invasive to Colorado. This, (and the onslaught of golf balls), are probably why it was so hard for me to find fish or any other aquatic wildlife.

I did try to catch a few, but I lacked good shoes to step into the pond with. Maybe next time I'll pack sandals and a net?

Eastern Fox Squirrel

While writing this journal, a squirel came right up to my table looking for food! I know this normal in the city, but I come from a neighborhood where the animals wont be within a mile of you because people are constantly throwing rocks at them. His lack of fear for me was certainly interesting, and a little sad, but not at all unsurprising. Losing a fear of humans and relying on them for food is one of the many ways city animals have adapted to urbanization. It even seemed as though the squirrel was trying to beg for food like a dog, trying to appear cuter and gazing up at me. I didn't give him food of course (I was afraid what I was eating wouldn't be good for him), but it was cool to observe. When I stayed still, he even had the guts to start trying to open my food container text to me! (How smart!).

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse