Save the Frogs Day

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Today, April 29, 2017, is Save the Frogs Day.

I personally have always loved frogs. As a child, I use to watch them jump in the ponds and creeks. I would imagine their worlds. I still incorporate frogs into my stories. I imagine them interacting with fairies and other woodland creatures.

As an adult, I still think about the frogs’ life. At the same time, I consider the frogs’ environment. Throughout the years, the push for modernization comes at a price. I would hate to see the frog population continue to decrease. The disappearance of frogs is just sad.

Just floating along….

Even though I do not know the facts, I am sure the impact of the ecological system would be significant. In my area, the decrease in frogs would mean an increase in mosquitoes and other pesky insects.

Tadpole

My request? Take the time to learn about the frogs in your area. Find out how to help with your local environment. You do not need to join large groups to help the environment, plant flowers, pick up litter, small gestures by a large number of individuals will have a large impact.

Until next time…..peace

 

Save the Frogs Day 2016

Posted on by Rebecca C.

“What is there to life

if a man cannot hear the lonely cry of a whippoorwill

 or the arguments of the frogs around a pond at night?”

Chief Seattle, 1854

Today, April 30, 2016, is Save the Frogs day. I love listening to the frogs. When I hear the sounds of frogs croaking loudly, I know warmer weather is being ushered in. I look forward to their beautiful sounds after each long winter. The different croaking sounds create a song over the nearby fields, ponds, and river flats that surround my house.

Frogs serve as an important role in our fragile ecosystem. In tadpole form, the growing frogs keep water areas clean from over growing algae. As the little frogs grow into adulthood, they begin eating insects as part of their diet. The consumption of insects is important in keeping the potential spread of diseases down.

For example, mosquitos have been known to transmit diseases to humans. Frogs help in keeping the mosquito population down. Without frogs, mosquitos and other insects would be out of control. An increasing population of insects would create serious pest control problems for humans.

Frogs are also known as an indicator species. When the frogs’ living environment becomes polluted, the results will be easy to view in the frogs’ offspring. The new frogs will be born with abnormalities which provide a warning to humans living in the same area. Protecting the frogs’ natural environment will, in turn, protect humans.

Honestly, I cannot imagine the world without frogs that let me know the Earth is awakening after a winter slumber.

Until next time….peace….

 

Save the Eagles Day

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Today, January 10, 2016, is Save the Eagles Day. The day is dedicated to the conservation and protection of these majestic birds. Here in Michigan (and all of North American from what I understand), the two species of Eagles are the Golden Eagle and the Bald Eagle. I have been fortunate enough to view both of these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. I have only been able to photograph the Bald Eagle. But I still have time to get more photos of both birds. I actually investing in another lens just for this reason.

This beautiful Eagle was in my neighbors tree. I am so happy everyone in my neighborhood does not think anything of me standing in the road while I take pictures of animals around their property.
This beautiful Eagle was in my neighbors tree. I am so happy everyone in my neighborhood does not think anything of me standing in the road while I take pictures of animals around their property.

These large birds of prey are beautiful to view out in the wild. Catching a glimpse of one in a tree or swooping down to catch their prey is a wonderful sight to witness. A Bald Eagle can actually reach speeds of 100 mph while trying to catch their prey. I find that fact to be absolutely amazing. Not to mention the wing span can be up to seven feet wide. I guess, you can tell why I love to watch these wonderful birds down on the river flats. In fact, my neighbor informed me of a pair down on the Maple River today.

If you get a chance, you should take the time to sit and watch the Eagles in their natural surroundings. You will find the experience breathtaking.

Until next time….peace

World Environment Day

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Today, June 5, 2015 is World Environment Day (WED). The theme for this year’s WED is Seven Billion Dreams. One Planet. Consume with Care. WED is about bringing a worldwide awareness to the environment.

The smallest actions can have a lasting effect on the environment. I believe in “reduce, reuse and recycle”. Of course, I say this as I stare at a large pile of magazines that need to go to the recyclers. And, I always seem to forget my grocery bags when I go to the store. But I do try. How do you try to help the environment? Any suggestions?

For me, the biggest thing I hate is when I see trash along the side of the road. I was down by the Maple River earlier today to take photographs of the local wildlife. The baby geese have really grown in the past couple of weeks. You can tell that someone threw fast food wrappings out as they drove by. Tell me how much more effort does it actually take to take the empty wrappers to your house or throw them away at the next gas station?  Littering up the road side takes away the natural beauty of the environment.

I think Dr. Jane Goodall says it best: “I dream of a world in which people learn to live in peace & harmony with each other & with the natural world”. I cannot express how much I agree with her.

Until next time…peace.

Save the Frog Day

Posted on by Rebecca C.

I was just informed that today, April 25, 2015 is also “Save the Frog Day”. I absolutely love frogs. During the warm months, I have all the windows open and the frogs “sing” me to sleep at night. There’s just something about listening to frogs (and crickets) on a warm summer night to remind me why I live in the country.

Why Have a Save the Frog Day?

Amphibians are considered to be one of the most endangered little creatures on the planet. In fact, over “1/3 of the world’s species are on the brink of extinction” (SavetheFrog, 2015). I cannot imagine a world without frogs. Their “voice” would be gone forever.

The Threats

Of course, the main threat to frogs comes from humans. Humans have caused reduced habitants, pollutions from various pesticides and over harvesting for food consumption. Climate change and infectious diseases also play a part in the reduction of the amphibian population. Often there is a combination of two different factors to cause a decrease in the frog population. A reduced immune system due to a pesticide can leave a frog susceptible to infectious diseases.

How to Help

One of the best ways to help is by being aware of the situation. Participate in local recycling programs; less pollutants and debris in the environment is a major step in the right direction. Properly dispose of household chemicals, unused paint, and other hazardous materials at proper collection station. When pollutants and pesticides get into the water; all wildlife is at risk.

If everything goes as planned, I am actually going to have a pond dug in my yard. There’s already a two ponds on the back property and the main creek runs through it as well. But I want a pond in my yard. Don’t get me wrong I love walking down to see all the wildlife. However, there are days were my schedule is tight; I still would live to be able to go out to view different creatures. Yes, I do plan to use the area for photography reasons.

Until next time….peace.

Source:

www.SavetheFrog.com  (they have free newsletter)

 

Earth Day Facts

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Earth Day is celebrated each year on April 22.  Earth Day has become an event on how to connect and celebrate nature as well as get educated about pressing environmental issues. We must all take a moment to see how we impact the environment and what actions can be taken to help lessen the effect.  Here are some facts about Earth Day.

Who Came Up with Earth Day?

Earth Day was thought up by Senator Gaylord Nelson who was a Democrat from Wisconsin. Nelson was inspired by the various types of protests and teach-ins that took place throughout college campus everywhere.  Nelson decided that he wanted to apply that concept to a larger scale that would bring focus to the environment

When Was the First Earth Day?

The first Earth Day took place on April 22, 1970 with approximately 20 million people in attendance at various rallies across the United States.  Earth Day is now recognized in over 180 countries with over 1 billion people taking part in the day. Social media has helped spread the news of Earth Day and the environmental issues which the day represents.

Earth Day has even become a part of various teaching curriculums in schools around the globe. By introducing Earth Day activities in the curriculum teachers and environmentalists are hoping the events will have a lasting effect on the children.

Other cities around the globe have turned Earth Day into a weeklong celebration.  The concept is to have a lasting effect on those who participate in the activities.  The activities act as way to remind people the value of going green in their local communities.

How Many Jobs Does Recycling Produce?

Many people believe that recycling is a waste of time and effort.  However the effort does pay off.  Approximately, 3.1 million jobs in the United States are from recycling and remanufacturing.  The impact of simple recycling can have long reaching results.

Plastic Bottles

The convenience of plastic bottles takes up space in landfills.  Most of us are guilty of grabbing that bottle of water at the local gas station as we head out for the day.  In fact in the United States there is over 200 billion beverage containers sold in any given year.  The number is staggering.  So is the fact that almost two-thirds of these containers will end up in a landfill or on the side of the road.  This is one of the reasons why recycling plastic containers is so important.

Air Pollution

Air pollution is becoming a growing problem in many areas around the globe.  The fact is that polluted air can cause lasting damage on the human body.  Over 2 million people will die each year due to air pollutants.

There are many more facts about Earth Day and the environment.  Take a moment; look up ways to participate in a local event.

Sources:

http://www.henslernurseryindiana.com/

www.mnn.com