We did a family field trip today to the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge. It really is a nice little treasure tucked away here that most people do not even realize exists. We went today, because DS2 is studying local wildlife for social studies. We have been focusing on migratory animals. As luck would have it, they are preparing for a festival for just that tomorrow. So we got alot of knick knacks and were invited back for tomorrow. Part of the draw for tomorrow (the boys are already saying they have to go to bed early so we can get there on time) is that the children get to release into the lake, baby alligator snapping turtles. Here is what one looks like all grown up : SNAP Scary monsters is what they are to me. But the boys couldn't possibly be more excited! But if you can believe it, THAT isn't the coolest part. The coolest part was during our nature walk today. We were walking back down a trail we had just been on no more then 15 mins prior. Suddenly about 15 feet in front of us, a 6 foot black rat snake flew across the path like a giant arrow. I had never seen a snake move that quick. It really was as if someone shot it across the path. It continued to move that fast for another 15-20 ft before hitting some low water. Then we heard this awful sound... It was almost a cry, mixed with a crip... We moved all around to see what the snake was doing and it had this huge bullfrog in its mouth. It completely ignored us and took its time swallowing that thing. We got to watch the whole thing! Gross, but so cool! I never knew they would attack prey like that. I always thought they would hide, coil and then strike. It was so amazing! On the way home, DD1 said very solemly, "That poor frog. His family is going to miss him."
