Ode to an OpossumMay 7th, 2009
We mentioned in our last blog that the next entry would be written from a totally different region and climate: Canada. But we felt compelled to write one last time from our southern home beside the beach in Tambor, which we will leave in just a few short days.
PLAYA TAMBOR AFTER A RECENT HARD RAIN, WITH ITS SILENT SENTINEL, THE LAND FORMATION LOCALS CALL A CROCODILE.
Throughout our time in Costa Rica, our blog entries have introduced you to our adventures and to the rich biodiversity of the country…
A couple of days ago, an Opossum wandered onto the hotel property and collapsed on the walkway close to our apartment. The animal had likely been hit by a speeding vehicle and was badly injured. Initially the small mammal appeared to have died. However, as we watched, the poor creature seemed to come back to life and continue to move slowly and try to shake off its serious injuries.
One of the local workers came to inspect the animal and decided to take him, somewhat unceremoniously, to the back of the property and put him out of his suffering. In only a few short moments, we had become emotionally involved and felt very sad all day about this loss.
BEACH HIBISCUS OR BEJUCO ALONG THE RIO PANICA
Death is a part of the cycle of life. In nature everything is connected and has an important role to play. An Opossum is not a cute, cuddly creature like a puppy, nor does it flash vibrant tropical colors like a toucan or possess human-like features like playful monkeys. But its role in life is just as important. Its life, too, is special.
Last night, a Pacific Screech Owl sat in a tree in front of our apartment and called incessantly for an hour and a half. And today, while cleaning kayaks for storage, we were graced with a visit from a very large and venerable “green” iguana, who has taken on the orange-red and blackish grey colors of the very old.
OLD GREEN IGUANA, NOW REDDISH-ORANGE AND GREY
We wish to pay tribute here to the opossum and to wish him, and all the other souls now crossing, safe passage.
Bruce and Frances