I have always been fascinated by eco-systems and how these tiny pockets of diversity reside in symbiotic relationship within larger, often more harsh environments.
Tidal pools are among my favorite. These tiny colonies of fascinating sea creatures cling to rocks and outcroppings along the ocean’s edge. As the tides ebb and flow, they happily exist, exposed to air or submerged in water within their craggy homes.
Today we happened upon a tidal pool along the northern shore of the Olympic peninsula, just as the tide was beginning its rise. Roxanne became like a puppy again. Between Lake Quinault, a long hike, and now the ocean, Rox obviously believes the peninsula is Golden Retriever heaven. (We, on the other hand, wonder if we will ever be able to dry out the bed of the truck!)
We strolled along the beach under heavy cloud cover. Peering into tiny pools, wading through rivulets along the base of the rocks, and climbing craggy haystacks, we ventured into this fascinating and strange land caught between sea and air.
Below are some of the beautiful sea creatures that we managed to photograph before the incoming tide washed over my boot tops:
PS Rox's post on tidal pools has some cool activities to download for the kiddos... just click here: http://roxannedogblog.blogspot.com/2011/08/tidal-pools.html
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