Pools of toxic algal bloom which sometimes occur when there is an upwelling of nutrient rich phytoplankton, turn the water an unusual reddish brown colour. These red tides cause depletion of oxygen in the water which is harmful to filter feeders and crustaceans. Tons of of rock lobsters and other shellfish become casualties and the beaches fester with the die off of many of these species.
Creating applets in Photoshop is a creative way to collate a series of shots and it fits with this week’s photo challenge “Collage”.
The message here is if we paid a little more attention to disposing rubbish responsibly, stopped littering in conservation areas and secured refuse bins carefully wildlife such as the Cape’s Chacma baboons would be less inclined to raid bins for leftover food. Foraging in the wilds for roots and shoots is far healthier and natural food choice rather than the detritus left by humans.
Here it is: a single photo showing the passage of time, transitions and change. This bleak scene signifies change – climate change. A dry riverbed with almost no water may well be a typical scene in the future. Described as a water scarce country, South Africa’s average annual rainfall is a mere 464mm. While parts of the country suffer drought conditions, the Western Cape is in dire straits. This is “The new normal”, we are told.
This week Erica poses the WP challenge: Delta. Share a picture that sybolizes transitions, change and the passing of time.
They’re back! The gentle giants – the Southern Right (Eubalaena australis) whales ply the seas from the Antarctic visiting the Cape shores between June and November. Despite their size they have gymnastic tendencies. Through leaping, tail lobbing and spy hopping they create fantastic shows with tremendous splash down . They’re easily recognised by their callosities (sometimes mistaken for barnacles) that cover their heads and blowholes. These patterns are like unique fingerprints particular to each individual.
They’re welcomed with joyful spirit by the many spectators who enjoy their exuberant antics.
WPC: Transient
The riggish scent of the sea hangs strongly in the air; there’s a chill wind and I feel uncomfortable as a strange and creepy feeling envelopes the beach strewn with storm detritus and mounds of kelp. In the distance lies “The Log” a casualty from some long ago episode when it washed ashore to lie abandoned and forlorn. This is a hostile place for ships when the Cape is battered by the huge breaking Atlantic swells. Just off this beach lie four shipwrecks and some say that the ghost ship “The Flying Dutchman” still plies these waters…..
WPC: Focus
