Being a "Resort" conjures up certain images in ones mind when they think about where to stay while traveling. But being an "Eco Resort" usually makes people think differently or at least wonder what that really means. Yes, we have already covered that in the past but make no mistake, you will not find any plastic water bottles here unless it's trash recovered from the beach. Don't worry, this isn't a time to preach about who is more "Eco" than the other but rather to share with you a really cool spot that you can walk to and explore while you're here. It's a super cool little island accessible at low tide.
This little island is a great destination to walk to and explore the tide pools that are full of sea life like this little Sea Hare. They are bright green/blue in the tide pools because of the algae that they feast on, covered with pointy papillae all over the body of the animal to help camouflage to its surroundings. These little Sea Hares are actually hermaphrodites meaning it can act as either a male or a female to the eggs that are laid. I can honestly tell you, I have never met a hermaphrodite before now. Very interesting.
The other creature we are all familiar with and likely quite wary of especially for our dogs running around the beach are the sea urchins. Along with the sea hares, these herbivores feast on algae all day long. This makes them a reef's companion as they rid the reef of the suffocating growth of algae. Like any species in nature, without them nature loses her balance and tips causing coral to die and well, that's another story in itself and not with a happy ending.
Like with anything in nature; observe, appreciate, leave it alone. Sea urchins have been around for 450 million years and have figured out a great way to protect themselves. Okay, so her protective shield is obvious but if you step on one, don't worry, they won't be mad at you as they don't have a brain to think in that capacity but, those spines easily break off and leave painful spiny slivers in the skin. They then inject a venom that is extremely painful, and in extremely rare cases cause death. Whoah!! Good lesson - leave the tide pools alone, don't get in them, and don't touch those urchins for sure.
So, you're wondering about the treasure? We are out of time for now so that will have to wait for another day. BUT, it does involve mermaids as well so, stay tuned.
We hope life is treating you well and we would love to hear from you. Your world is likely seeing the beauty of Spring and we would love to hear from you so send us a photo of your daffodils or tulips or whatever is inspiring you these days.
Your Friends in Morrillo,
Cari and Ryan Mackey
Owners and Hosts
Morrillo Beach Eco Resort