Category: Brevard County

Discovering Coquina Clams at Cocoa Beach

After 25 years of visiting Cocoa Beach, a discovery of coquina clams transformed my appreciation for the ecosystem, revealing its beauty, complexity, and intrinsic connections to life.

MichaelStephenWills9 Comments

A Familiar Shore, Newly Seen

For nearly two and a half decades, I’ve strolled the sands of Cocoa Beach—since my first visit in March 2001—comforted by the rhythmic Atlantic waves and the familiar stretch of shoreline. I thought I knew this beach intimately; from the way the sunrise paints the water orange to the feel of wet sand under my feet. Yet it wasn’t until a clear morning in February 2025 that I recognized one of its tiniest treasures: the coquina clam. In the past, I might have walked past countless little shells and the tiny siphons and feet in the sand without a second glance. Now, with newfound awareness, I realize an entire world had been bustling at my toes all along.

February 2025: Discovering the Coquina Clams

Early one February morning, as the high tide receded, I noticed something magical happening at the water’s edge. Tiny coquina clams—each no larger than a fingernail—were emerging from the sand only to swiftly burrow down again between each wave.​

These living coquina clams were found in the receeding high tide on a February 2025 morning on Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida

Their small wedge-shaped shells, in colors of pastel pinks, purples, yellows, and whites, peeked out for a moment and then vanished, synchronized with the pulse of the ocean. It was as if the beach itself had come alive with confetti-like jewels, re-positioning themselves with every ebb and flow. I stood entranced, wondering how I’d missed this subtle dance for so many years. That morning marked the beginning of my quest to learn about these little clams that had been hiding in plain sight.

Life Beneath the Sand

Once my eyes were opened, I began observing and researching the coquina clams’ hidden world. I learned that each delicate clam is a filter feeder, siphoning in microscopic phytoplankton, algae, and organic particles from the surf. This constant filtering not only feeds the clam but also helps clean and clarify the coastal waters by removing excess nutrients. Coquinas live a fast-paced, transient life by necessity: they typically survive 1–2 years in the wild and can endure a mere few days without the ocean’s moving water.​

No wonder they race to burrow when the waves recede—staying submerged is a matter of life and death, as they rely on the surf for both food and oxygen. In their brief lifespan, they continually ride the tides, migrate in swarms up and down the beach, and rebury themselves between each wave to avoid being swept away.

I found it astonishing that such small creatures possess the agility and tenacity to “surf” the waves and dig themselves back into wet sand within seconds, a graceful routine I had unknowingly witnessed that February morning.

Beyond their daily habits, coquina clams also undergo a remarkable life cycle beneath the sand. They spawn in the warmer months, releasing gametes into the water for external fertilization. The resulting larvae drift as plankton for a time before settling into the sand and metamorphosing into tiny clams. With no parental care to guide them these young coquinas must immediately fend for themselves in the surf zone. Perhaps it’s this independent, perilous beginning that drives them to cluster in large colonies—while they aren’t social in a communicative sense, hundreds of coquinas often live side by side in favorable spots, turning patches of wet sand into vibrant mosaics of color and life​.

Walking the beach now, I recognize these patches: slightly raised, pebbly areas that, when a wave washes over, suddenly bristle with tiny siphons and feet as the clams feed and reposition. It’s humbling to realize that under each footstep, an entire hidden ecosystem of coquinas might be thriving.

Shells on the Shore: Beauty and Predation

With my new awareness, even the empty shells strewn along the high tide line told a story. I began to collect some of the colorful coquina shells scattered on the sand, marveling at their variety—no two looked exactly alike. Some were solid orange or yellow, others striped with purple and white, each as delicate as a butterfly wing. Many of these shells were intact, evidence of clams that had lived out their short lives or perhaps fallen prey to gentle endings. Others, however, bore mysterious perfectly round holes on their surfaces. At first glance, I thought a tiny drill had punched through them, and in a way, I was right. Those small holes are the signature of predatory snails that haunt the sands: creatures like moon snails (also known as shark’s-eye snails) and whelks that prey on coquinas by literally boring into their shells. These sand-dwelling snails wrap themselves around a clam and use a tongue-like organ called a radula—akin to a miniature saw—to drill a neat hole through the coquina’s shell, aided by acidic secretions to soften the calcium carbonate. Once the hole is complete, the snail devours the clam from within, leaving behind an empty, perforated shell as a grim calling card of the food chain in action.

Seeing those tiny “murder holes,” as beachcombers jokingly call them, on coquina shells transformed my perspective on the shell collections I had casually admired for years. Each shell in my hand represented a life that had been an integral part of the beach ecosystem. Some had been snatched by shorebirds or fish the instant they were exposed by the retreating tide, becoming breakfast for a sanderling or a pompano. Others, as the holes revealed, had been victims of an even stealthier predator under the sand. It struck me that every fragment and hollowed shell on the beach is evidence of a relationship—predator and prey, life and death intertwined on the shore. Instead of seeing a random assortment of pretty shells, I now saw a record of the beach’s vibrant food web written in calcium carbonate. The realization filled me with both wonder and respect: this sunny tourist beach holds quiet tales of survival as dramatic as any wilderness, if one knows where to look.

The Coquina’s Ecological Role

As I dug deeper (both into the sand and the literature), I discovered that coquina clams are far more than a footnote in the beach ecosystem—they are a keystone of coastal ecology. By filtering plankton and detritus from the surf, countless coquinas collectively act as tiny water purifiers, helping maintain water quality along the shore. Their presence in large numbers indicates a beach’s health; in fact, abundant coquina populations signal that the beach environment is robust and unspoiled. A stretch of sand teeming with coquina clams suggests natural, shifting sands and minimal human interference, as these clams thrive best where coastal processes remain undisturbed. In this way, coquinas are like a barometer for the shoreline: if I continue to find them at Cocoa Beach, it means the beach is still alive and supporting complex life.

Coquina clams also form a critical link in the food chain. Numerous shorebirds rely on them as a food source—those flocks of little sandpipers and plovers skittering at the water’s edge have, all along, been feasting on coquinas right under my nose. Fish that patrol the surf, like the Florida pompano and various kinds of drum (whiting), gulp them up as the waves churn the sand​.

These coquina clam shells were found February 2025 on Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida

Even ghost crabs and other scavengers benefit, feeding on clams that wash ashore. And of course, the predatory snails under the sand have a specialized taste for them. It’s a reminder that even a creature only an inch long can be a cornerstone of an entire food web, sustaining animals up the chain from mollusks to birds to fish. Standing on the beach now, I often pause and watch the frenetic chase of the shorebirds in the surf, aware that without the coquina clams beneath the foam, that familiar coastal ballet could cease to exist.

Humanity and the Coquina: Intertwined Histories

It’s not only animals that have interacted with coquina clams—we humans have a longstanding relationship with them as well. Historically, Floridians made use of coquinas as a food source. Local folklore and old recipes describe coquina broth and chowder, a delicate soup made by briefly boiling these tiny clams to extract their flavor.​

Because each clam is so small, you’d need hundreds to make a pot of soup, so it’s not a common dish today except perhaps as a novelty. Still, the idea that the sands I walk on could literally be cooked into a chowder is a charming and earthy connection between food and place. Early indigenous peoples and European settlers alike would have recognized coquinas as an edible bounty in times when every bit of protein counted.

For best experience, click on “Watch on YouTube”

Humans have also found value in the shells of coquinas beyond admiring their beauty. Over time, vast deposits of coquina shells on ancient beaches hardened into a soft limestone rock called coquina stone (the term “coquina” itself comes from the Spanish for “shellfish” or “cockle,” reflecting its composition)​.

In a fascinating twist of fate, this sedimentary rock—essentially millions of fused clam shells—became a building material. Here in Florida, coquina stone was quarried and used to construct some of our oldest structures. The historic fortifications in St. Augustine, like Fort Matanzas and Castillo de San Marcos, were built from coquina stone, their walls made resilient by a matrix of coquina clam shells​.

I find it poetic that the same little clams I only just learned to appreciate have literally been the building blocks of human shelters that have stood for centuries. Even today, crushed coquina shells are used in landscaping and as decorative ground cover—perhaps you’ve seen driveways or garden paths that gleam with fragments of pink and purple shells.​

Our lives overlap with the coquina in subtle ways: from the architecture of coastal Florida to the aesthetics of our beach towns.

Modern conservationists note another connection: by protecting natural beach dynamics, we also protect coquina populations, which in turn supports the whole ecosystem. This means being mindful about coastal development, beach renourishment projects, and even how many shells tourists collect. I’ve become more aware that picking up a few pretty coquina shells as souvenirs is fine, but we must leave plenty behind for the beach to recycle and for other creatures to use. For example shorebirds glean minerals from them. The humble coquina clam has given me a new appreciation for how intimately tied human activity is to the smallest inhabitants of the shore.

Reflections: Wonder in the Little Things

My journeys to Cocoa Beach were enhanced: what began as a casual observation in 2025 has blossomed into a profound shift in the way I experience the beach. I feel as if I’ve been given new eyes—now I notice the glint of tiny shells in the sand and know there’s life (or a story of life) attached to each one. The joy of discovery I felt upon noticing the coquina clams has reignited a childlike curiosity in me. It’s astounding that after decades of visits, there was still a secret to uncover on those familiar shores. This realization makes me wonder: What else have I been missing? It’s a reminder that nature has layers upon layers of wonder, even in places we think we know intimately. Sometimes it just takes a shift in perspective, a bit of knowledge, or a quiet moment of attention to peel back the veil.

In reflecting on the coquina clams of Cocoa Beach, I’ve learned not only about a specific species and its role in the world, but also about myself and the value of lifelong learning. These clams, in their smallness and ubiquity, taught me to slow down and appreciate the intricate tapestry of life at my feet. Now, each time I visit the beach, I smile seeing the waves bring in that rush of foam and sand, knowing a hidden troupe of coquinas is hard at work filtering water, dodging predators, and holding up the very balance of the shore. I often kneel down now, running my fingers gently through the wet sand to feel them retreat, and I silently thank them — for cleaning the water, for feeding the birds and fish, for building historic forts (unbeknownst to themselves), and for showing me that wonder can be found in the smallest of places. Cocoa Beach, through the lens of the coquina clam, feels like a brand new world I’ve been lucky enough to discover, even after all these years​

I look forward to other hidden marvels awaiting discovery on my next visit.

References


Abbott, R. T. (1974). American Seashells: The Marine Mollusca of the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts of North America. Van Nostrand Reinhold Company.

Andrews, J. (1994). Shells and Shores of Texas. University of Texas Press.

Brusca, R. C., & Brusca, G. J. (2003). Invertebrates (2nd ed.). Sinauer Associates.

Denny, M., & Gaines, S. (2000). Encyclopedia of Tidepools and Rocky Shores. University of California Press.

Futch, C. R., & Burger, J. (1976). The ecology of coquina clams (Donax variabilis) in the southeastern United States. Marine Biology Journal, 34(2), 157-168.

Leal, J. H. (2002). Seashells of Southern Florida: Living Marine Mollusks of the Florida Keys and Adjacent Regions. Smithsonian Institution Press.

Mikkelsen, P. M., & Bieler, R. (2008). Seashells of Southern Florida: Marine Bivalves, The Bivalvia. Princeton University Press.

Morton, B. (1988). Particulate Matter Processing in Bivalves: An Overview. Journal of Marine Ecology, 19(3), 103-123.

Ruppert, E. E., Fox, R. S., & Barnes, R. D. (2004). Invertebrate Zoology: A Functional Evolutionary Approach (7th ed.). Cengage Learning.

Stanley, S. M. (1970). Relation of shell form to life habits of the Bivalvia. Geological Society of America Memoir, 125, 1-296.

Voss, G. L. (1980). Seashells of the Gulf and Atlantic Coasts. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

Wells, H. W., & Gray, I. E. (1960). Habitat selection and the distribution of the coquina clam (Donax variabilis). Ecological Monographs, 30(1), 55-77.

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Discovering Fogbows: A Coastal Wonder

I had a haunting experience at Cocoa Beach, witnessing a rare fogbow—a ghostly arc formed by fine mist—evoking emotions and reflections on nature’s beauty.

MichaelStephenWills19 Comments

The fog haunted Cocoa Beach for days, softening the edges of the afternoon. I had been walking along Cocoa Beach, feeling the cool ocean breeze on my face, when I noticed a change in the light. It was a little after four, the sun drifting lower in the western sky, its warmth fading into a hazy glow. The air smelled of salt and mist, and waves lapped gently at the shore, their rhythm unbroken by the deepening fog.

And then I saw it.

A pale arc stretched across the horizon, a ghost of a rainbow bending above the waves. At first, I wondered if my eyes were playing tricks on me—where were the usual bright bands of red, orange, and violet? But no, the arc was real, a fogbow, forming where sunlight met the fine sea mist. Unlike the rainbows that appear after summer storms, this one was almost entirely white, as if the ocean had conjured it from air and silence.

Sailors once whispered of such things—a white rainbow at sea, a sign of hidden land or wandering souls. Some believed it to be a bridge between realms, a fleeting passage where the living and the lost might momentarily brush against one another. Others saw it as an omen, a spectral warning of treacherous fog ahead. I wondered what the mariners of old might have thought, standing at the bow of a ship, watching a pale arc rise from the mist, its edges dissolving like breath against glass.

I stood still, watching, as the science of the moment unfolded before me. Unlike traditional rainbows, which form when light bends through large raindrops, fogbows are born from infinitesimally smaller droplets, often less than 0.1 millimeters in diameter. Their size diffuses the light, scattering it so finely that the colors blend together into a spectral whisper rather than a vibrant shout. The physics of it fascinated me—this was diffraction in action, nature bending light in a way that rendered it nearly colorless.

The effect was surreal. The fogbow arched over the breaking waves like something out of a dream, a halo of sea and sky, momentary yet timeless. It seemed to pulse in the shifting mist, visible one moment, fading the next, as if deciding whether to reveal itself fully or slip back into the fog’s embrace.

For several minutes, I just stood there, taking it in. The world felt different inside that mist, quieter, more reflective. The fog dampened the usual sounds of the beach—the calls of shorebirds, the laughter of distant walkers—leaving only the hush of the waves and the distant hum of the ocean’s breath.

I knew that fogbows were rare, requiring just the right balance of thin fog, moisture, and a low-angled sun. I was lucky to be in the right place at the right time, a witness to something subtle yet profound.

And just as silently as it had appeared, the fogbow began to dissolve. The mist thickened, swallowing its arc, the sky shifting back to its usual muted gray. But the memory of it lingered—a white rainbow over the sea, ephemeral and elusive, like a secret the ocean had briefly chosen to share.

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Cocoa Beach’s Unique Nine-Armed Sea Star Encounter

In Cocoa Beach, I encountered a Nine-armed Sea Star, which I returned to the ocean, reflecting on its ecological role and the wonders of marine life.

MichaelStephenWills11 Comments

Walking along the shoreline of Cocoa Beach in the early morning light, I encountered a remarkable sight—a Nine-armed Sea Star (Luidia senegalensis) sprawled on the damp sand. Its long, slender arms stretched outward in a perfect starburst pattern, each limb tapering to a fine point. The sandy beige coloration of its body blended with the surrounding beach, accentuated by a darker stripe running down the center of each arm. Scattered around it were small shells and fragments, remnants of the ocean’s ebb and flow, testifying to the high tide that had deposited this fascinating creature ashore.

The scientific name Luidia senegalensis provides insight into the taxonomy and classification of this intriguing sea star. The genus Luidia is named after the 18th-century Portuguese naturalist Francisco Luid, who contributed significantly to marine biology. The species name senegalensis refers to its first recorded discovery along the coast of Senegal in West Africa. As a member of the phylum Echinodermata and the class Asteroidea, the Nine-armed Sea Star shares lineage with other starfish, sea urchins, and sand dollars, distinguished by their radial symmetry and water vascular system used for movement and feeding.

As I paused to observe it more closely, I marveled at the intricate details of its structure. Unlike the more familiar five-armed sea stars, this specimen had nine arms radiating from a small central disc. The surface of its body appeared smooth, with tiny tube feet lining the underside of each arm—a biological marvel designed for locomotion and feeding.

This starfish washed up on high tide. I seemed alive so I returned it to the surf during ebb tide, hoping the ebb current would return it to deeper water.

The Nine-armed Sea Star, common along Florida’s coastline, is a voracious predator within the benthic ecosystem. It primarily preys on bivalves such as clams and mussels, using a fascinating feeding strategy. Unlike most predators that rely on speed and strength, this sea star employs patience and ingenuity. It wraps its flexible arms around a bivalve, exerting a slow and steady force to pry the shell open. Once a small gap is achieved, the sea star everts its stomach through its mouth and into the prey’s shell, secreting digestive enzymes that liquefy the soft tissues within. This external digestion allows the sea star to consume its prey without the need for teeth or jaws—a perfect example of nature’s ingenuity.

Despite its delicate appearance, the Nine-armed Sea Star plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. By preying on bivalves, it helps regulate their populations, preventing overgrazing of seagrass beds and maintaining a balanced food web. Additionally, it serves as a food source for larger marine predators, such as fish and sea turtles. Its presence signifies a healthy intertidal environment, where nutrient cycles and predator-prey relationships are in dynamic equilibrium.

As I considered the sea star’s role in the ecosystem, I wondered about its journey to this point. These creatures undergo a fascinating life cycle, starting as tiny, free-swimming larvae that drift with ocean currents. Over time, they undergo metamorphosis, settling onto the seabed and gradually developing into their iconic star shape. The resilience and adaptability of these creatures are truly astounding, capable of regenerating lost arms and thriving in diverse habitats.

Realizing that this sea star likely found itself stranded by the receding high tide, I felt a sense of responsibility to help it return to its natural environment. Picking it up gently, I carried it toward the water’s edge, where the ebb tide was beginning to pull the sea back into its vast domain. With a final look at its striking form, I placed it carefully into the shallow waves, hoping that the ebb current would carry it back to the sandy seabed where it belonged.

As the waves lapped around my feet, I imagined the sea star resuming its journey, gliding along the ocean floor in search of its next meal. The interconnectedness of all marine life became evident in that moment—each creature playing its part in an intricate and delicate dance of survival.

Walking back along the shoreline, I reflected on the experience. My fleeting encounter with the Nine-armed Sea Star was a reminder of the wonders hidden beneath the ocean’s surface and our role in preserving them. Every tide brings new discoveries, and every ebb offers a second chance—for the sea star, and perhaps for us as well.

Cocoa Beach, with its gentle waves and abundant life, had once again provided an unforgettable encounter with nature. The starfish, now safely returned to the ocean, would continue its unseen work beneath the waves, a quiet but essential denizen of the underwater world.

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Erosion and Beauty: Cocoa Beach’s Sand Sculptures

At Cocoa Beach, sand castles succumb to time, showcasing beauty in decay, while desert monoliths endure. Both narratives reveal nature’s artistry through impermanence and transformation.

MichaelStephenWills14 Comments

On the shores of Cocoa Beach, where the January winds dance freely, the once-proud towers of sand now stand humbled. What was sculpted by human hands—carefully packed and shaped with laughter—has become a relic of its former grandeur. The wind, with its gentle yet relentless touch, carves away at their edges, smoothing and softening their once-crisp lines. The castles, now mere echoes of their original form, hold a quiet dignity in their decay. Impermanence is their fate.

Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida, Space Coast, January 2025

In the first photograph, the remnants of a sand fortress curve in a gentle arc, protecting a lone pillar—perhaps the last bastion of a crumbling empire. The textures of wind-blown ridges ripple across the sand like waves frozen in time, whispering of the invisible forces that shape the land. The delicate striations of the eroded peak, captured in close detail in the second image, reveal the layers of creation and destruction, each grain bearing witness to the ceaseless march of time.

Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida, Space Coast, January 2025

The third image brings a sense of companionship to this landscape of change. Like silent sentinels, the remaining sand pillars stand together, weathered but resolute. One wears a crown of a single shell—a reminder that even in the face of erosion, beauty persists. These fleeting structures, built in joy, now bow to nature’s artistry, embracing the inevitable with quiet grace.

Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida, Space Coast, January 2025

And yet, beyond the gentle shores of Cocoa Beach, in the vast and timeless expanse of the Sahara Desert, wind-carved monoliths stand as testament to the power of patience. The fourth photograph—an imposing formation shaped by millennia of desert winds—towers over the golden dunes, its shadow stretching far into the sands. Where the beach’s castles fall in a day, the desert’s sculptures endure for centuries, silent witnesses to the ebb and flow of time on a grander scale.

Wind carved geological formation, Sahara desert. Credit “scraped from the web”

But are they so different? Whether in the fleeting impermanence of Cocoa Beach or the enduring vastness of the Sahara, the hand of the wind shapes all things. Each formation tells the same story—of creation, of erosion, and of transformation. They whisper to us that beauty is not defined by permanence, but by the dance between time and the elements.

As the sun sets over the beach, casting long shadows across the sand, one cannot help but marvel at the artistry of nature. Whether lasting an afternoon or an age, the sculptures of wind and sand remind us that all things are in motion, and every grain, every ripple, every fleeting moment holds a story waiting to be told.

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Ode to a January Sunrise at Cocoa Beach

Awake to the radiant grace of dawn, where golden light adorns the sky and the ocean reflects its splendor. Witness the serene dance of nature in a peaceful, inspiring January sunrise at Cocoa Beach.

MichaelStephenWills6 Comments

Awake, my soul, to morning’s radiant grace, as dawn’s first light adorns the sky’s embrace. Behold the scene where heaven meets the sea, a tapestry of hues, divinely free.

The eastern sky ignites with golden fire, each ray a herald of the sun’s desire. In softest pinks and boldest crimsons cast, the night retreats, and day arrives at last.

The ocean, kissed by dawn’s ethereal light, reflects the splendor of the coming sight. Waves gently lap upon the sandy shore; their whispered secrets speak of days of yore.

The palm trees sway in rhythmic, gentle dance, their silhouettes in morning’s light enhance. A peaceful stillness wraps the world in awe, as nature’s beauty strikes the heart with awe.

The scattered clouds, with edges tinged in gold, Frame the horizon as the day unfolds. They drift like dreams upon the waking breeze, in harmony with rustling leaves of trees.

And as the sun ascends its royal throne, Its warmth and light through every vein is known. A new day born, with promise in its wake, invites the heart to rise and dreams to take.

Imagine, seagulls soar on wings of pure delight, their cries a chorus to the morning’s light. They glide and dive with effortless grace, their freedom echoes in this sacred space.

On distant sands, the footprints of the few mark early risers greeting morning’s hue. Their presence, fleeting, soon to be erased, by tides that sweep the shore in gentle haste.

Oh, glorious dawn, thy beauty so profound, Inspire the soul where peace and love abound. Let hearts be lifted by thy gentle hand, to cherish all that’s wondrous in this land.

For in this moment, all the world is still, the chaos of the night’s dark dreams to kill. A symphony of light and life begins, as morning’s joy through every fiber sings.

So let us honor this celestial show, where sky and sea in radiant colors glow. In silent reverence, we stand and gaze, at dawn’s first light, and marvel at its blaze.

Awake, my soul, and bask in morning’s gleam, embrace the beauty of this waking dream. For in the sunrise, hope and peace reside, a timeless gift the heavens do provide.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Face-to-Face with Florida’s Ancient Predator

Discover the world of Florida’s ancient predators through the eyes of the formidable Smilodon fatalis. Step back in time to the Pleistocene epoch and explore the life, habits, and social bonds of the iconic sabertooth cat.

MichaelStephenWills7 Comments

I examined an unusual map of Florida, the contours of its familiar modern shape overlaying a vast, green expanse. The state as we know it today is crisscrossed by highways and dotted with bustling cities, but this map transported me back in time to a very different era. During the Pleistocene epoch, Florida was a wilder, untamed land, teeming with life and dominated by creatures long extinct.

The representation of the land area of Florida state during Pleistocene epoch glaciation is the green shading with the current map of Florida within.

Exploring Brevard (county) Museum of History and Natural Science of Cocoa Florida, I moved to the next exhibit. The air hummed in my imagination with the whispers of an ancient world. A skeletal figure loomed within a glass case – the mighty Smilodon fatalis, the sabertooth cat. Its fearsome fangs curved downward, I imagined standing face-to-face with this apex predator, feeling both awe and a primal fear.

Florida, some 11,500 years ago, was a place of significant climatic shifts. The Pleistocene epoch was characterized by repeated glaciations; however, Florida itself remained unglaciated. The climate was cooler and drier than today, and sea levels were much lower, extending the coastline outward. This ancient Florida was a mosaic of grasslands, savannas, and woodlands. Giant sloths, mammoths, and mastodons roamed these lands, sharing the territory with the formidable Smilodon.

The attendant palque described Smilodon fatalis was about a foot shorter than modern lions but nearly twice as heavy. Its stocky build and powerful limbs suggested immense strength. Unlike the cheetahs and lions of today, Smilodon had a bobtail, indicating that it relied less on speed and more on ambush tactics. I could almost see it now: crouching low in the underbrush, muscles coiled, waiting for the perfect moment to spring upon its unsuspecting prey.

In the reconstructed display, the sabertooth cat’s lethal precision was evident. Its elongated canines were deadly tools designed to pierce and hold onto struggling prey. The lack of a long tail, which modern big cats use for balance during high-speed chases, suggested that Smilodon was an ambush predator. It would have hidden in the dense foliage, its mottled coat blending seamlessly with the shadows, until it launched a surprise attack.

Smilodon was not just a solitary hunter. Unlike modern cats and tigers, which often lead solitary lives, evidence suggests that Smilodon was a social creature. The plaque mentioned the structure of its hyoid bone, implying that it could roar, perhaps using vocalizations to communicate with other members of its group. I envisioned a family of Smilodon, working together to take down a mammoth or defend their territory from rivals. Their social bonds might have been strong, much like those of modern lions.

I was particularly struck by the evidence of healed wounds found on many Smilodon skeletons. These injuries had healed and remodeled over time, suggesting that these cats cared for each other. In a world where every day was a battle for survival, these acts of care and compassion spoke volumes about their social structure. Injured members were not left to fend for themselves but were likely allowed to feed off the kills of others and to be protected by their group until they recovered.

The exhibit painted a vivid picture of an ancient ecosystem. The Pleistocene flora of Florida was diverse, with vast grasslands interspersed with stands of pine and oak. The fauna was equally rich: herds of herbivores grazed the plains, while predators like Smilodon and dire wolves stalked them. This was a land of giants, where every creature had to be strong, fast, or cunning to survive.

As I stepped away from the exhibit, I felt a deep connection to this ancient world. The Smilodon fatalis was a predator and is a symbol of an era that shaped the natural history of our planet. Its bones told a story of survival, community, and the ever-changing dance of life and death.

In the quiet of the museum, surrounded by the echoes of the past, I was reminded of the fragility and resilience of life. The sabertooth cat, with its fearsome fangs and powerful build, was a testament to the incredible adaptability of life on Earth. Though it has long since vanished from our world, the spirit of Smilodon fatalis lives on in the bones it left behind and in the stories we tell about the ancient world it once ruled.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Experiencing the Cocoa Beach Kite & Beach Fest

Experience the magic of the Cocoa Beach Kite and Beach Fest! From giant dinosaur kites to whimsical octopuses, this vibrant event brings joy to all ages. Dive into the excitement and watch the kites soar!

MichaelStephenWills18 Comments

The air was electric with excitement as I arrived at Cocoa Beach for the Kite and Beach Fest on January 21st, 2024. A stiff wind greeted me, carrying the scent of saltwater and the promise of a day filled with wonder. The beach was bustling with families, kite enthusiasts, and curious onlookers, all eager to witness the spectacle that awaited them.

As I strolled towards the shoreline, I was immediately captivated by the sight of an apparently massive dinosaur kite soaring high, filled with the wind, against the backdrop of the overcast sky. Its fierce red eyes and sharp teeth contrasted sharply with the playful atmosphere below, yet it seemed to be enjoying its flight as much as the spectators enjoyed watching it. I couldn’t help but snap a photo, capturing the moment when the dragon seemed to float majestically above the waves.

Further down the beach, a cluster of giant octopus kites waved their tentacles gracefully in the wind. Their vibrant colors stood out against the gray sky, each one a mesmerizing dance of fabric and air. The way they undulated with the breeze was hypnotic, as if they were alive, drawing me closer to their whimsical beauty. I watched as children ran underneath, their laughter mingling with the sound of the surf, creating a symphony of joy that filled the air.

Among the kites, there were also enormous land crabs with their claws extended, bobbing and weaving in the breeze. They were a crowd favorite, with people gathering to marvel at their intricate designs and lifelike movements. It was as if the beach had been transformed into a surreal landscape where dragons, octopuses, and crabs coexisted in perfect harmony.

As I walked along the beach, I took in the lively atmosphere. I grabbed a cold drink and found a spot to sit, taking in the view of kites of all shapes and sizes dotting the sky like a colorful mosaic.

The festival wasn’t just about the kites, though. It was a celebration of community and creativity. I watched as seasoned kite flyers shared tips with newcomers, and children learned to fly their own kites for the first time. There was a sense of camaraderie in the air, a shared joy that transcended age and background.

As the afternoon wore on, I found myself reflecting on the magic of the day. The kites, with their bold colors and imaginative designs, reminded me of the limitless possibilities of creativity. The festival was a testament to the power of imagination, bringing people together to celebrate art, nature, and the simple pleasure of watching something soar.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the beach, I took one last look at the dinosaur, still bravely battling the wind. It seemed fitting, a symbol of resilience and wonder, and a reminder of the enchanting day I had spent at Cocoa Beach. With a heart full of joy and a camera full of memories, I headed home, already looking forward to next year’s festival.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

A Serendipitous Meeting: The Hermit Crab and the Moon Snail

Washed up together on a sunlit shore, a hermit crab and a Moon Snail tell an extraordinary tale of survival and resilience in the vast ocean. Discover how these unlikely companions reveal the intricate dance of life beneath the waves and the profound connections that bind marine ecosystems. Dive into their captivating story and uncover the secrets of their intertwined destinies.

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The high tide left behind a myriad of treasures scattered along the shore. Among the shells and seaweed, two unlikely companions lay side by side—a Moon Snail and a hermit crab. This serendipitous meeting speaks volumes about the intricate dance of life in the ocean’s depths.

Life Beneath the Waves

Hermit crabs are fascinating creatures, exhibiting behaviors and adaptations that ensure their survival in the ever-changing marine environment. These crabs are not born with shells. Instead, they scavenge for empty shells discarded by snails, meticulously choosing the perfect fit. The shells provide essential protection against predators and environmental hazards.

In their early life stages, hermit crabs undergo a series of molts, shedding their exoskeletons to grow. Each molt presents a critical opportunity to upgrade their shell, moving to a larger one as they increase in size. This constant need for new housing drives a competitive dynamic among hermit crabs, with individuals often engaging in “shell exchanges” where one crab may forcibly evict another from its shell.

The Hermit and the Moon Snail

The Moon Snail, known scientifically as Neverita duplicata, is a predatory mollusk famous for its distinctive, moon-shaped shell. These snails are both feared and admired in the marine community for their voracious appetite and remarkable hunting tactics. They drill into the shells of their prey, typically other mollusks, using a specialized appendage called a radula, combined with acidic secretions to bore through the hard exterior. Click me for another post with more information about the Moon Snail.

The juxtaposition of the Moon Snail and the hermit crab washed up together is a tableau that invites deeper contemplation. How did these two distinct beings come to share the same stretch of sand?

A Dance of Survival

It’s likely that the hermit crab, in its search for a suitable home, found itself in the proximity of the Moon Snail. The Moon Snail, a relentless hunter, could have been following its own trail of prey when the tide caught them both off guard. The ocean’s currents, indifferent to their individual struggles, deposited them together on the beach, a fleeting moment of stillness in their otherwise tumultuous lives.

This meeting is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of marine life. The hermit crab relies on the discarded shells of snails for survival, while the Moon Snail’s role as a predator keeps the balance in check, ensuring that no single species dominates the ecosystem.

Reflections on Resilience

The image of the hermit crab within its borrowed shell speaks to the resilience and adaptability inherent in nature. These crabs are perpetual nomads, continually seeking, adapting, and thriving in environments that can be both generous and harsh. Their survival hinges on their ability to repurpose and reuse, a lesson in resourcefulness that resonates beyond the tidepools.

The Moon Snail, with its powerful drilling capabilities, exemplifies the raw force of nature. Its presence is a reminder of the predatory relationships that underpin marine ecosystems, driving evolution and diversity through a relentless cycle of life and death.

The Final Tide

As we ponder the scene before us, it’s worth considering the broader implications of these two creatures’ lives. The ocean, vast and unfathomable, is a realm where survival is an art form, honed by millennia of adaptation. The hermit crab and the Moon Snail, though vastly different in form and function, share a common thread—their existence is a testament to the delicate balance of nature.

The hermit crab’s journey, from shell to shell, mirrors our own quests for security and stability. The Moon Snail’s predatory prowess underscores the inevitable challenges we face. Together, they remind us that life, in all its forms, is a continuous interplay of seeking and surviving, of finding and losing, of moments of stillness and sudden change.

In the end, the hermit crab and the Moon Snail, brought together by the whims of the tide, offer a glimpse into the profound and often unseen connections that weave the tapestry of life beneath the waves. Their story is a poignant reflection on resilience, adaptability, and the ever-present dance of survival that defines the natural world.

A top view of the shell occupied by a Hermit Crab found on Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida. The Space Coast.

An Uncertain Identification

The identification of our hermit crab companion is made challenging by the absence of one of its claws, a vital characteristic for precise classification. This missing claw hints at the hardships faced by hermit crabs in their dynamic and sometimes perilous environments. Whether lost in a struggle with a predator or another hermit crab, this detail serves as a reminder of the tenacity and resilience required for survival in the marine world. While the exact species remains a mystery, the broader story of the hermit crab’s life and survival remains clear and compelling.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Beachcombing on Cocoa Beach: A Moon Snail Encounter

Join me in reliving the enchanting evening on Cocoa Beach where my wife and I discovered a rare, intact Atrina rigida shell. Dive into the world of this fascinating bivalve through our story of ecological wonder and natural beauty.

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The first light of dawn painted the horizon in soft hues of pink and orange as I strolled along Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida, the heart of the Space Coast. It was winter 2017, and the cool breeze carried the salty scent of the ocean. My eyes scanned the sand for treasures, remnants of the ocean’s bounty washed ashore by the relentless rhythm of the tides.

The beach was a mosaic of shells, fragments of marine life that had completed their journey. Among them, a particular shell caught my eye – the Moon Snail or Necklace Shell, scientific name Naticidae, known for its smooth, spiraled form and glossy finish. The shell I found that morning was bathed in the early light, its curves reflecting the phases of the moon, hinting at the mysteries of the ocean from which it came.

The scientific name of the Moon Snail, belonging to the family Naticidae, finds its roots in the rich tapestry of classical languages, reflecting the distinct characteristics and historical context of these marine gastropods. The family name, Naticidae, is derived from the genus Natica, which in turn originates from the Latin word “naticula,” meaning “a little buttock.” This whimsical etymology is thought to describe the round, smooth, and somewhat globular shape of the Moon Snail’s shell, which can resemble a small, rounded form akin to a buttock.

The genus Natica was first described by the French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in the early 19th century. The suffix “-idae” is a common ending used in zoological nomenclature to indicate a family level in taxonomy. Moon Snails are known for their distinctive appearance, with large, rounded shells that often have a glossy surface and intricate patterns. The family’s name not only captures the physical traits of these snails but also highlights the historical practice of using descriptive and sometimes playful terms in the classification of organisms.

As I admired the shell, memories of previous beachcombing adventures flooded back. The Moon Snail’s elegant design has always fascinated me, symbolizing both beauty and predation. The shell’s form, with its deep umbilicus and polished surface, is a testament to the life it once harbored.

 

Shell of the Moon Snail (Naticidae) found in the surf wash. Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida

 

This winter past, January 2024, I enjoyed a rare sight – a live Moon Snail washed up on the shore. The small, compact form was nestled in the sand, its body partially retracted into its shell. I carefully picked it up gently. The snail’s soft, pale brown body contrasted with the hard, glossy shell, a perfect example of nature’s duality.

Observing the snail closely, I could see its large foot, a muscular organ that it uses for locomotion and burrowing into the sand. The foot’s underside, called the sole, was slightly sticky, aiding in its movement. The snail’s head, with its small, retractable tentacles, peeked out cautiously. These tentacles are equipped with sensory organs, allowing the snail to explore its surroundings and detect prey.

Moon Snails are predatory creatures, and their diet consists mainly of other mollusks. The snail’s mantle, a fleshy part of its body, secretes the shell and also houses the snail’s siphon. The siphon is used for breathing and detecting chemical signals in the water, crucial for hunting. The snail’s radula, a toothed, tongue-like organ, is a formidable tool for drilling into the shells of its prey. The Moon Snail wraps its large foot around its victim, creating an acidic environment that helps it bore a hole into the shell. This process can take several hours, after which the snail consumes the soft tissue inside.

Can you spot the work of the Moon Snail on these waves washed shells? Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida

Aware of the snail’s delicate nature, I decided to return it to the surf. I tossed the creature far into the surf. It was a small act of conservation, a gesture to ensure that this remarkable creature could continue its journey.

Reflecting on the encounter, I felt a deep connection to the natural world. Beachcombing is not just about collecting shells; it’s about understanding the lives they represent and the intricate ecosystems they are part of. Each shell tells a story of survival, adaptation, and the relentless cycle of life and death in the ocean.

Cocoa Beach, with its endless horizon and rhythmic waves, is a sanctuary for these stories. The Space Coast, known for its technological achievements and space exploration, also offers a window into the ancient, natural world that thrives beneath the waves. The juxtaposition of human advancement and natural beauty is striking, reminding us of our place in the larger tapestry of life.

As I left the beach that January 2024 morning, the sun climbing higher in the sky, I carried a renewed appreciation for the ocean’s wonders. The delicate balance of predator and prey, the seamless integration of form and function, and the ongoing dance of life – all captured in the spiral of a Moon Snail shell.

 

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Cocoa Beach Dawn

In January 2024, I captured the tranquil beauty of Cocoa Beach at dawn, embracing the fleeting moments of peace and natural wonders.

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The first blush of morning caresses the horizon, the palette of colors unfurling across the sky like a softly whispered promise of the day ahead. The soft pinks and blues deepen, brushing the clouds with strokes of lavender and orange, as the sun peeks just above the watery edge of the world. Today, I find myself strolling along Cocoa Beach, capturing the tender moments of dawn breaking over this tranquil Florida beachscape in early January 2024.

Each step I take along the sandy shores brings a new perspective, a new detail, revealed in the emerging light. To my right, a lone beach house sits nestled behind a veil of sea oats and palmettos, the sky behind it a canvas of warming hues. The house seems to slumber still, its windows reflecting the first golden rays of the sun. This dwelling, isolated and serene, hints at the countless summers of laughter and salty air, and the quiet winters of introspective solitude.

The sun disk breaks the horizon, visible through the clouds. Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida. The Space Coast.
The sun disk breaks the horizon, visible through the clouds. Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida. The Space Coast.
The sun disk breaks the horizon, visible through the clouds. Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida. The Space Coast.
Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida. On the Space Coast
Dune sunflower (Helianthus debilis) on the path to our condo. Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida. On the Space Coast.

As the morning progresses, the sun asserts itself, climbing higher and burning off the last vestiges of night. I point my camera towards the ocean, capturing the waves as they roll in with rhythmic persistence. The sea is a creature of profound mystery in these early hours, its surface a moving mirror that catches the fire of the sunrise and dances with light. Each wave is a note in an aquatic symphony, played just for those who are awake to hear it.

Turning my gaze down, I focus on the smaller, often overlooked inhabitants of the beach. A single flower, a stubborn and resilient dune sunflower, stands boldly above the sands. It’s an unexpected sight—this splash of vibrant yellow against the muted earth tones of the sandy beach. The flower turns its face towards the sun, basking in the glow, thriving in its own patch of the world. It’s a poignant reminder of the tenacity of life, of nature’s relentless pursuit of existence against the odds.

The beauty of Cocoa Beach at dawn is not just in its sweeping vistas or the dramatic play of light and shadow. It’s also in these small, intimate encounters: the texture of the sand, the whisper of the grass, the solitary bloom. Each element is a brushstroke in a larger picture, a note in a grander melody. As I walk, my feet leave temporary impressions on the wet sand, soon to be erased by the incoming tide. It feels symbolic, this transient mark-making, reflective of the fleeting nature of life and the enduring beauty of the world around us.

Cocoa Beach this morning is a place of peace and contemplation. As I capture these moments with my camera, I am also capturing them in my heart, storing them as a balm for busier, noisier days. The photographs will speak of quiet and calm, of the soft hush of dawn, and the gentle awakening of the earth. They will tell of a morning when the world seemed to pause, just for a moment, to revel in the simplicity and beauty of another beginning.

As the sun climbs higher, its light becomes too harsh for the soft magic of dawn photography. I pack up my camera, my heart full of the morning’s calm. The beach is waking up now, the first joggers and dog walkers appearing, their morning routines intersecting with the tail end of my photographic journey. I leave Cocoa Beach carrying the quiet joy of the morning, a joy found in the dance of light on water, in the solitude of a beach house, and in the vibrant defiance of a sunflower. Dawn here is not just a time, it’s an experience—a delicate, powerful reminder of the world’s wonders, witnessed at the edge of the day.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills