What an irony that some of the poorest soils in Alabama are among the most diverse, species-rich sites in North America. Many of the rare and spectacular plants are found in coastal bogs and nowhere else on Earth. There are shocking-pink orchids, with garish advertisements of pollen and nectar to attract pollinators. The brilliant ads are false: they have no pollen or nectar to share.
There are predators in our bogs that do not depend on fang and claw. The pitcher plants seem harmless as they gently sway in the wind. Who would guess that they beguile, with sight, scent, and the false promise of safe shelter, uncounted insects and a few other small creatures to their doom. One of these predators, the White-topped pitcher plant, is held by many to be among the world’s loveliest and most interesting plants.
With their catbriars, yellow flies, and sulphurous-smelling wet spots, our bogs are surely some of the orneriest, cussedest places in Alabama. But, as the foul water is over-topping my boots and the briars reach-out for my arms and shirt, I often stop, just to take in the dramatic shapes, the intense colors, and the deadly beauty that surrounds me. It occurs to me then that such rare and beautiful places are worth saving, as part of our heritage from the past and our legacy to the future. They are, to me, a pinnacle of creation, and clearly they should remain Forever Wild.
Tell us about your special place. Keeping Alabama Forever Wild is seeking entries from people who want to share their special outdoor places in Alabama. They can be a state park, wildlife area, nature preserve, stream, wetland, forests, and wildlife. Find out more about how to participate.
Your entry can be in the form of an essay (up to 600 words), photo or a video.
Send in your entry, along with an approximate address or the name of the nearest Alabama community to KeepingAlabamaForeverWild@gmail.com . Photos and videos need to include a full description.
All entries must include a line or two describing yourself, along with your address, email address and phone number where we can contact you. We will not publish your personal phone number or email. A selection will be made daily and published on al.com each day from March 1 to Earth Day- April 22, 2011. We will contact you if your submission is chosen to appear on al.com.