Coal Fired Generating Plant

This a reposted entry since the original entry [Jan 10] was accidentally replaced by the Sanibel Without Shells entry.  As usual, it's likely a problem between the seat and keyboard for which there is no available solution other than to start from scratch.

Even a coal-fired generating station can be striking if the light is right.  It would seem that this plant is quite environmentally friendly in spite of burning coal.  The excess warm water attracts manatees during the cold water winter months [Dec. Jan. and part Feb.] so the plant owners have built boardwalks and interpretation programs for when the manatees are there.

Here is part of one of the boardwalks; I liked the natural arch.

Along the boardwalk, just after the arch, we saw these hundreds of little crabs scurrying about in unison.  Note the single very large claw; quite a good defence system.

Also nearby were tarpon fish which entertained us by jumping a fair bit.  We also saw rays swimming and jumping, but no shots were successful...

We came to see the manatees, and there were many to watch. Every bump in the picture below is a manatee, just floating on the surface, basking in the sunshine and warm water.  This shot was from the viewing platform

These next shots are all from behind the platform where the space was somewhat constricted and more amenable for photographs.

The first shot shows a small manatee with its thick rubber-like tail visible.

The next series shows the manatee coming up for air.  Unlike whales and dolphins, manatees don't spout water when they reach the surface, they just open their nostrils.  Hope you can see the sequence below [you can click to see larger].