K Things We Appreciate
Kaibab Squirrel – Exclusive to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park, and
strictly protected by State and Federal government, these distinctive-looking
critters (a sub-species of the Albert’s squirrel) complete a trio of uniquely
substantive survival components within their natural habitat of Ponderosa Pines,
and the fungi that grows beneath; which becomes part of the root system. After
happily feasting on the food the trees provide, the squirrel then scampers off,
dispersing the fungi collected on its feet, through the forest so that more and
more trees will grow. This process is repeated year after year in a 20 X 40-mile area.
Kingsnakes – Appearances aside, the name “King”
tells us that this reptile can and does
eat other snakes – including rattlesnakes. This is something I very much
appreciate ;-) Kingsnakes cover the
widest geographical range of any land snake and (believe it or not) are
considered among the most beautiful snakes in the world for the array of polished colors they display. Some even look
like the venomous Coral snake, but if you’re ever in doubt here’s a couple of
saws to help you out: “If red touches
black, you’re okay, Jack” and “If red touches yellow, you’re a dead fellow.”
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| "Big Room" Kartchner Caverns |
Kartchner Caverns is a massive living limestone cave
featuring 13,000 feet of passages and two ‘rooms’ as large as football fields
containing both live and ancient inhabitants such as bats, Soda Straws, Stalactites,
and Moonmilk. Kept a secret for 14 years
after its discovery, the caverns were carefully secured for preservation and
future maintenance of the stunning and still-growing formations before being
publicly presented as a Tour Cave. It is indeed an
awesome tour ;-)
Sir David
Brewster stumbled upon what became a brilliant parlor diversion in 1816 when, after
observing color and pattern changes at the end of two mirrors, he invented the Kaleidoscope.
It seems
that no one really knows who invented Kettle Corn, but I’m sure glad they did!
Knees are another thing I appreciate
because, as my dear friend Mrs. Mildew puts it, “They’re terribly
indispensable.” ;-)
Any
thoughts? Can you add to the list of things we appreciate that begin with the
letter K?
Krispy Kreme donuts are top of my list! I begin with a K too, and I quite appreciate myself!
ReplyDeleteA-Z of My Friend Rosey!
Hi Keith!
DeleteI haven't even thought of Krispy Kremes since the last store closed here - great one for the list!
And yes, K for Keith ;-)
Hi, diedre!
ReplyDeleteExcellent "K" subjects here, dear friend! The facts revealed about the behavior and range of the Kaibab Squirrel remind us that Mother Nature is clever, has it figured out, and her system works as long as man doesn't interfere. I also appreciated learning about the Kingsnake and was inspired to read more. They are immune to the venom of snakes in their own territory but not necessarily the venom of snakes from other regions. They kill by constriction. Kingsnakes themselves are vulnerable to birds of prey and tarantulas.
Mrs. Shady and I enjoyed exploring Carlsbad Caverns National Park and I know we would also love Kartchner Caverns. I needed to look up Soda Straws and Moonmilk. The cavern sounds like a malt shop for bats! :)
I suspect many of today's young people would be attracted to Kettle Corn, but I doubt the Kaleidoscope, an invention that delighted and fascinated people of the 19th century, would hold their attention. The device is simply not as exciting as Grand Theft Auto. :)
Thank you very much, dear friend diedre!
Hi Shady!
DeleteI'm glad to have inspired further research on the Kingsnake. We have tarantulas here as well, creating a worrisome see-saw sometimes.
"A malt shop for bats" Ha! Actually I meant to insert a link that would have explained Soda Straws, etc...(duh) Caves are fascinating places but I'm a bit claustrophobic ;-)
Thank you for coming by, dear Shady!
Hi Diedre - the kitchen comes in handy on most days! A kick in the backside could be useful ... but I think I'll stop there and press on - cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteHi Hilary!
Delete"A kick in the backside" Ha!
Kitchen is definitely one for the list ;-)