RoundupReads Hunting tactics—just in time to slay energy vampires

Hunting tactics—just in time to slay energy vampires

2016-08-03

This green heron (Butorides virescens) nabs a dragonfly from the air near Building 4. Green herons have a diverse diet. They eat a wide variety of animals—fish, insects, spiders, snails, frogs, small snakes and even small rodents. The herons’ methods for catching their prey are just as diverse as their diet. These green herons will stalk along shallow shorelines actively looking for prey just beneath the surface. They may even dive completely underwater to grab submerged prey. Alternatively, they will stand perfectly still for several minutes until their future meal ventures within striking distance of their long neck and pointed beak. They hunt in the water, from trees or among tall grass. This green heron may eat this dragonfly herself, or she may place the injured or dead dragonfly on the still water’s surface as bait to draw in unsuspecting fish. This bird’s impressive repertoire of hunting tactics allow it to thrive in the and around the waterways of JSC.

Another species lurking around JSC is the energy vampire. Johnson Space Center’s third energy competition is underway and will run until the end of October. Keep the energy vampire away from JSC by turning off unused appliances and equipment. Did you know that reducing paper usage also saves energy? The Environmental Protection Agency states that one ton of waste paper saves enough energy to power an average home for six months. Want more tips? Check out this month’s Sustainability Opportunities.

 green heron
Image Credit: NASA/Lauren Harnett

 

Matt Strausser

NASA Johnson Space Center