Mustang Island Nature Walk and the USS Lexington

Saturday, October 20, 2013
Mustang Island Beach and USS Lexington

Yesterday started off windy and overcast but ended with bright sun and blue skies.  We started the day at 9:00 with an interpretive walk along the beach with Park Ranger Nina. We had her all to ourselves and walked for about an hour. She pointed out the various birds and explained that this area is one of the best birding sites in the country. We also went looking for baby turtles, which like to come in by the nearby jetty looking for food. But there was a strong off shore wind making the tide too rough to see any. There are a number of turtles which nest here, one of which is the Kemp's ridley sea turtle.

They are working to re-establish areas where the dunes have been removed in the past for either buildings or beach access. The process involves putting up snow fences to slow the wind and allow deposition of sand. Over time, and it takes about 5 years, the plants will put down roots and help anchor the dune.

Argghhh! More squirrels!

The USS Lexington is, to use an overworked word, awesome. In it's size and complexity it makes me think of what a Starship would be like. This ship was commissioned in 1943 and served until decommissioning in 1991. More impressive is the sense you get of the difficulty of life aboard and the heroism of all the men (and later women) who lived and fought on her. We spent over 2 hours climbing steep ladders and going down narrow corridors and still didn't complete all the tours. We simply ran out of time (on the parking meter) and knees (too weak for another ladder). You do get amazing access to many parts of the ship. If you are in the Corpus Christi area this is highly recommended.

Flight Deck