Note from the Environmental Education Center
The spring season hasn’t officially started, but signs of its arrival are all around John Paul Landing. After the winter freeze, abundant rains set the stage for a luscious spring, and with the warming temperatures, the park has sprung back to life. Fresh green sprouts and leaves are emerging from a variety of plants and trees.
Photos by Megan Ahlgren
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Early blooms give us a taste of the spring color yet to come. On sunny days, butterflies dance through the air, and other insects are abuzz with activity. Pleasant weather makes it a great time to enjoy nature in the park. We hope you visit the Environmental Education Center and join us for one of our programs or bird walks.
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March Events at John Paul Landing |
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A Closer Look at Nature: All About Alligators
Wednesday, March 8,
2 – 3 p.m. or
Saturday, March 11,
10 – 11 a.m.
Designed for school-aged children. Registration required. Click here for more information.
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Birding Program: eBird for Everyone
Wednesday, March 16,
12:30 – 2 p.m. or
Saturday, March 18,
10 – 11:30 a.m.
For adults and older students with a keen interest in birds. Click here for more information.
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Weekly Bird Walks
Thursdays,
8:30 – 11:30 a.m.
All ages and levels of experience welcome. Click here for more information.
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Oh, Snap!
The American alligator is a large crocodilian reptile, well-known in freshwater habitats in the southeastern United States. It is one of only two living alligator species, the second being the critically endangered Chinese alligator. American alligators can grow up to 15 feet long and weigh nearly half a ton. It is no surprise that these enormous reptiles are apex predators. They live in swamps, streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes, feeding on just about any prey they can catch, such as fish, amphibians, other reptiles, birds, and mammals. Their jaws pack a fast and powerful snap yet are more sensitive than human fingertips. Gators have even been observed using lures to catch birds, making them one of the only reptiles known to use tools.
Given their love of water and the regular flooding of nearby Langham Creek, it didn’t take long for a few alligators to find the new lake at John Paul Landing. If you are lucky, you might spot one lurking in the lake or basking at the water’s edge. Another place to see gators nearby is Brazos Bend State Park, where you are almost guaranteed to see these reptiles any time of year. If you want to see babies, the best time to go is September and October. Parks can be a safe refuge for visitors and wildlife if we remember to respect nature. Always give wildlife plenty of space, keep dogs on a 6-foot leash and on the trail, and do not feed alligators or other wild critters. Learn more about alligators by signing up for the upcoming kids program, A Closer Look at Nature: All About Alligators.
Photo by Bobby Martin
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Which of these is not a difference between American alligators and crocodiles?
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a. Range – Crocodiles do not live in Texas.
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b. Tail – Alligators have bony ridges on their tails, crocodiles do not.
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c. Nest – Alligators build mounds, while crocodiles dig holes.
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d. Smile – Alligators show only the top teeth when their mouth is closed.
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John Paul Landing Environmental Education Center is looking for volunteers! We have a wide variety of projects on our to-do list. We could use a hand with everything from daily maintenance to tending flower beds and bird feeders, maintaining nest boxes, controlling invasive species, and helping with public activities. If you are interested in volunteering, email johnpaullanding@hcp4.net for more information.
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Interactive Content Answer
Which one of these is not a difference between American alligators and crocodiles?
Answer: B. Alligators have bony ridges on their tails, crocodiles do not.
Both alligators and crocodiles have bony ridges, known as osteoderms or scutes. These bony structures embedded under their skin help with protection, locomotion, and temperature control.
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9950 Katy Hockley Road, Cypress, TX 77443
713-274-3131
hcp4.net/jpl
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