How easy it is over the past year to imagine we are all alone in this great big world. For those of us who’ve been trapped in a big city, it’s easy to feel alone with our thoughts, and disconnected from a world outside our pandemic routine. To forget how it felt to be in a foreign city, with different people, and sadly to even forget about nature and all it’s glorious creatures.
How I missed the ocean, the scent, and the sound of the waves calling. This small town girl wasn’t born to be surrounded by this much concrete. How ecstatic I was a few weeks ago, to finally have a few days by the ocean. All I wanted was to simply get up early, go to the beach, watch the sun rise, and jog on the sand. And so, I did just that.
On this particular morning the air was humid, but the breeze was crisp. After watching the sun rise, I spent an hour walking along the beach, dipping my toes and watching the boats in the distance. I felt a few droplets of rain and decided to run back along the path by the beach. As the rain drops grew heavier, I picked up the pace, but stopped in my tracks when I spotted a tiny crab, standing still in my path.
I crouched down gently to get a better look the little beauty. I do hope I wasn’t disturbing it too much. It stood so still, it’s beautiful dark chocolate eyes glistened like glass in the morning sun. Its delicate legs a mix of yellows and reds. The texture of its exoskeleton, showed such intricate patterns. Its own little shell fingerprint.
Trying to get a better look at the tiny creature, but also trying to keep my distance, I lay on my stomach on the path. It was around 7am and still quiet. Its brown eyes stared into my brown eyes, or at least it felt as though they were. It was at this point that I noticed that the crab looked like it was foaming at the mouth. Not knowing much about crabs at all, I wondered if it was distressed. I didn’t want to cause this beautiful little animal stress, and with my iPhone 12 already in my hand I quickly took one photo, and left the little wanderer in peace.
I wanted to know more about crabs that day. I’m far from a crab expert. I wanted to know more about those bubbles, and what this compact organism does with its day. I’m glad I took a little time to research and educate myself.
Just a few fun facts that I didn’t know about crabs:
There are over 4500 species of crabs.
When on land, crabs breathe through their gills, and in order to keep their gills moist, they use their articulating plates to seal in the gills moisture. It is thought that the bubbles occur when the crab is attempting to keep the gills moist. They can store water in their blood and bladder.
Whilst most small crabs can live 3-4 years, a Japanese spider crab can live up to 100 years.
If you google “what do crabs do for fun” you will likely still not know. Yes, I tried.
How lucky I was to see that crab, on that beautiful balmy morning. That gorgeous little creature serves as a reminder for all of us. It reminds us how we can marvel at nature and its beauty. That we share this earth, the planet doesn’t belong to one person. That we must remember that this is home to many different creatures and many different groups of people too. That we should respect all of its inhabitants, and their habitats. It reminded me to educate myself about what makes others so wonderfully unique.
About the Creator
Miss C
New York City
Police Warn Against ‘Ridiculous’ Parking at Beauty Spot Amid Snow Disruption
Heavy snowfall may transform beauty spots into winter wonderlands, but it also brings serious risks when visitors ignore basic safety and parking rules. Police have issued a strong warning against what they describe as “ridiculous” parking at a popular beauty spot, after snow disruption led to blocked roads, stranded vehicles, and delayed emergency access. As wintry conditions continue to affect travel, authorities are urging the public to prioritise safety over scenic photographs, reminding drivers that poor parking decisions can have life-threatening consequences during severe weather. Snowfall Turns Scenic into Hazardous The recent spell of snow attracted large numbers of visitors eager to enjoy picturesque landscapes blanketed in white. Hillsides, national parks, and rural viewpoints quickly became hotspots for walkers, families, and amateur photographers. However, police say the surge in visitors coincided with widespread parking chaos. Cars were left abandoned on narrow roads, grass verges, gateways, and even blocking access routes meant for emergency vehicles and local residents. What may appear to drivers as a harmless decision to “park for just a few minutes” can quickly escalate into a major safety issue—especially when snow and ice reduce road space and visibility. Police Response and Public Warning Local police forces have taken to social media and public statements to express frustration at the situation. Officers described some parking behaviour as not only irresponsible but dangerous, particularly given the weather conditions. Police warned that emergency vehicles, including ambulances and mountain rescue teams, were struggling to reach areas due to blocked roads. In severe weather, response times are already under pressure, and illegally parked vehicles can mean the difference between life and death. Authorities have also made it clear that enforcement action will be taken where necessary. Drivers risk fines, towing, and penalty points if their vehicles obstruct roads or endanger others. Impact on Emergency Services One of the most serious consequences of poor parking during snow disruption is its impact on emergency services. Narrow rural roads, already difficult to navigate in icy conditions, become completely impassable when cars are parked irresponsibly. Fire crews, paramedics, and rescue teams rely on clear access routes, particularly in popular beauty spots where accidents such as slips, falls, or stranded walkers are more likely in winter conditions. Police stressed that emergency vehicles do not have the luxury of “finding another way around” when roads are blocked. Delays caused by inconsiderate parking put both responders and the public at risk. Local Residents Left Frustrated It is not only emergency services that are affected. Residents living near popular beauty spots often bear the brunt of snow-related disruption. Driveways are blocked, access to homes becomes difficult, and essential journeys for work, medical appointments, or supplies are delayed. Many locals report feeling ignored by visitors who treat rural communities like seasonal attractions rather than lived-in areas. During winter weather, this frustration is magnified, as residents may already be dealing with power outages, poor road conditions, and limited access to services. Police have echoed these concerns, reminding visitors that beauty spots are often surrounded by working communities, not just open spaces for leisure. Why Snow Makes Parking More Dangerous Snow significantly reduces road safety margins. It narrows carriageways, hides road markings, and makes verges unstable. A car parked partly on a road might seem manageable in normal conditions, but in snow it can create blind corners, force vehicles into oncoming traffic, or cause skidding accidents. Additionally, snowploughs and gritters require space to operate effectively. Poorly parked vehicles can prevent these essential services from clearing roads, prolonging disruption for everyone. Authorities warn that even experienced drivers can underestimate how quickly conditions can change in winter weather. Social Media and the “Snow Day” Effect Police have also pointed to social media as a contributing factor. Viral images of snow-covered landscapes often encourage spontaneous trips without proper planning. People see beautiful photos and head out without considering parking availability, road conditions, or weather warnings. This “snow day” mentality can overwhelm rural infrastructure not designed for large volumes of traffic, particularly during adverse weather. Police urge visitors to check local advice before travelling and to be prepared to turn back if conditions are unsafe. Advice for Safe Winter Visits In response to the ongoing disruption, authorities have shared clear guidance for anyone planning to visit beauty spots during snowy conditions: Avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather warnings Park only in designated areas, never on roads or verges Do not block gateways, tracks, or emergency access routes Check weather and road conditions before setting off Be prepared to leave if parking is unavailable Police emphasise that no photograph or short walk is worth risking lives or causing serious disruption. Enforcement and Accountability While officers prefer to rely on public cooperation, they have confirmed that enforcement will be stepped up if irresponsible behaviour continues. Vehicles may be ticketed or removed, particularly if they pose a danger or obstruction. Authorities stress that enforcement is not about spoiling enjoyment but about ensuring public safety. Winter conditions demand higher levels of responsibility from drivers, not less. A Shared Responsibility Snow transforms landscapes, but it also tests public behaviour. Police warnings against “ridiculous” parking are not just expressions of frustration—they are urgent reminders that safety must come first. Enjoying nature is a privilege, not a right, especially during extreme weather. By parking responsibly and respecting local communities, visitors can help ensure that beauty spots remain accessible, emergency services remain effective, and winter days do not turn into preventable disasters. As snow disruption continues, the message from police is clear: think before you park, or don’t park at all
By Muhammad Hassan5 days ago in Earth
How Wind Energy Works: A Closer Look with Stanislav Kondrashov
As the world pushes further into the 21st century, the demand for sustainable and clean sources of energy has never been greater. At the heart of this shift is wind energy—a technology as old as the first sailboat, yet as modern as the towering turbines dotting coastlines and countrysides. Stanislav Kondrashov, an independent energy researcher and commentator, has long studied the mechanics and potential of wind power. His insights help demystify what’s often seen as a complex system driven by forces we can’t see.
By Stanislav Kondrashov 7 days ago in Earth
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