So it turns out that anatomically modern humans (AMH) knew a trick or two that ensured their survival and evolution into Homo Sapiens while their contemporary Neanderthals bit the dust, eventually. During the Laschamps geomagnetic excursion, about 41 000 years ago, our planet lost its magnetic bearings for some 2000 years. During the shift, the earth’s magnetic shield was reduced to 10 percent of its strength, exposing everything on its surface to a flood of cosmic radiation, and auroras floating everywhere, down to the Sahara desert.

Researchers at the university of Michigan point to the fact that clever AMHs figured out a way to protect against radiation exposure, covering themselves with ochre, smearing mud all over their bodies and faces. They also invented techniques to produce tailored clothing (compared the Neanderthals’ loosely draped capes) which shielded their bodies from burns and cancer-inducing rays. (I learned about all this on the consistently funny and informative 404 Media Post.) These folks also point out that if such a geomagnetic shift happens in the future, ochre sunscreen would be the least of our worries. All technologies would likely fail….

But really today we just want to slather on the factor 50 and explore the reopened wildlife sanctuary, now that nesting season is completed. Walk with me through a wonderland of fluff balls,

protective mothers,

Nutria be gone!

tending their nest and rolling eggs.

Turtles were out, and blue herons,

flocks of egrets hanging out at the waters edge, as did bald eagles.

Swallows came and went

Kestrels rested.

Fish were jumping (trout? carp?) and little critters emerged from their burrows.

Lupines in full splendor, spit bugs (aka cuckoo spit in German) everywhere, and the contrast of light and dark green marking the season of leafing.

Eagles and osprey soaring, and red winged black birds singing. My soul did as well.

Not exactly tailored clothing, but a home-made costume accompanied this wildlife enthusiast Matt Trevelyan on a long, long hike to raise funds for the endangered curlew. wild story – he walked 53 miles in 3 days across England to raise awareness as well as money for the cause. so you know what music will be today, an old favorite on YDP. This album raises fund as well.