It is unseasonably warm in north Texas today. A strong south wind (low
pressure west) means the weather will change soon. There are high, overcast
stratus clouds. I am standing at the source of a man-made stream designed as a
waterfall spilling over local woodbine sandstone. The water forms a depression
where silt and dead leaves have settled through the winter. A rock-island
creates a less turbulent area behind it where minnows have gathered in the
calm. They obviously don’t like turbulent water and stay huddled together
swimming in a tight little area. They number about fifteen and range in size
from an inch and smaller. They’re very well camouflaged (French word for “to
play a joke), light brown silt color. They’re swimming in a completely isolated
zone free from predators. I know that pond sliders are part of the stream’s
environment but they have been moved for the season. One may think them unable
to climb the various water obstacles that normally separate them from the
minnow’s area, but in the past I have observed one particularly determined
individual that worked for thirty minutes in climbing over this barrier. That
could create havoc in the minnow community. But for now they’re safe. I suppose
an egret or other waterfowl could make an approach to the water even in this
confined space, if they’re qualified enough for short landings. That could pose
a problem for the minnows. The place reminds me of a story about certain
areas along the Congo River in Africa where water is so swift it has
partitioned off fish in a permanent fashion leading to the formation of a
unique species over evolutionary time. The only thing flying today is a lone yellow-jacket flying a
haphazard route through yucca plants. He finally gained altitude and let the
wind assist him north out of the area. No birds today at any altitude. No
humans were seen walking by.
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