Sandpipers & Plovers

Sandpiper

The Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia is the most common member of a large family of long-legged shorebirds.

They are commonly seen teetering about on beaches and salt marshes, although they may also be found in disused parking lots and other places. The breast is spotted only during the breeding season; in winter it is plain white.

Plovers are similar.


Blue-Green Algae

Most blue-green algae are inconspicuous, forming slimes or velvety coverings on any available surface. Some blue-green algae, not all of which are blue-green in color, are capable of surviving in extreme conditions that kill most other forms of life. Some give off toxins that are harmful or fatal to other forms.