I was looking forward to a cool down and perhaps a reduction in the no-see-em wounds, but no luck there - this month remained much hotter and wetter than normal here in the Keys.
On the first of November, we went to one of our favorite waterfront spots, for their doggie costume contest. My favorite was definitely the yorkie couple!
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| Football Jock and Cheerleader |
November did bring two new arrivals to the
Dolphin Research Center, Aleta's baby Diva, and Merina's baby Windley. We visited frequently but were not present for either birth. One occurred while we were working, and one was before business hours at the DRC. Nearly all dolphins here were born here, except for a couple adopted from New England Aquarium, Jax who was found seriously injured by a shark and non-releasable, and Louie, another rescue.
It was a thrill to see the newborns. At times, the mommas really seemed eager to show them off.
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| Margarita time! Getting their daily fresh water |
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| Iguanas are non-native; if caught, they are required to be kept captive, or destroyed. These guys at DRC have been neutered and released to live out their lives at the center |
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| Even the iguanas watch the show |
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| Talon and Pax working with trainers |
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| Talon and Pax are the athletic boys |
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| They seem to love jumping |
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| That's some serious air! |
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| The moms and teenagers in the nursery also get their turn, including Molly their "old lady" at over 54, who was recued from a roadside trailer show (back when that was legal); she has clearly visible scars under her flippers where she was held up in the trailer... |
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| The newborn babe just a few hours old |
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| You can really see her "stripes" here. In dolphins, the babes have the "stretch marks" which disappear when out of that cramped womb for a while |
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| Aleta showing off her newborn |
And many more gorgeous sunsets...
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