Iguana invasion?

A Beaconite was pulling out of his driveway recently when he noticed a new visitor: A large iguana was basking in the sun on the concrete. Unfortunately, it was a green iguana, which is an invasive species in the Virgin Islands. He has been seeing the reptiles more and more lately, and he suspects that they are gaining a growing foothold on Tortola and possibly other islands. Nevertheless, he was thrilled to have a new pet in the yard at first. This excitement, however, was dampened when he approached the creature and it disappeared into a hole it had dug under his driveway. He couldn’t help wondering if the reptile would undermine the road surface. His concern was heightened when he read an online post by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission warning about the problems associated with the species. “Some green iguanas cause damage to infrastructure by digging burrows that erode and collapse sidewalks, foundations, seawalls, berms and canal banks,” the commission stated. “Green iguanas may also leave droppings on docks, moored boats, seawalls, porches, decks, pool platforms and inside swimming pools.” The Beaconite is now hoping his visitor will find a new home.

 

Live and uncut

Part of the wonderful experience of making new friends is that they expose you to the way they choose to take life by the horns. Follow a friend and they will lead you to new places and (sometimes) dizzying heights. Recently, one Beaconite chose to follow a new friend, along with some old ones, down the beach of Brewers Bay. After hearing a bite of music from within the trees, the new friend came back to the group with tales of live music and good food. Upon following in his footsteps through the sand and into the beachside forest, the Beaconite came upon Intensity Band conducting a sound check for an upcoming outdoor concert they were scheduled to play. Intensity was glad to have an audience and soon commenced with some rockin’ oldies. In front of the band sat friends and family sipping on light beer to wash away the fiery flavors of traditional Filipino cuisine. A medley of slivered pig’s ear with fresh lime, birds eye chili, white onion, white pepper, salt and vinegar was cut with The Cranberries a la Intensity. The Beaconite greatly appreciated the smiling faces and warm hospitality he found on the beach below the sugar mill ruins. All with the help of his new friend, of course.

 

Hitching

While a Beaconite has been in the Virgin Islands for nearly two months, she is still without a vehicle. In fact, it took her about six weeks just to find an apartment. Without a car to drive, she has come to rely on the generosity of friends and strangers to get around. While hitchhiking does occur in the United States, it is extremely uncommon in her native city of Phoenix. So it was not until she arrived on Tortola that she hitched for the first time. She was waiting for the bus that runs between East End and Road Town when a woman offered her a ride. Since then, she has lost count of how many rides she has caught. While some are quiet, others are full of conversation. The reporter is always curious to hear other people’s stories. Therefore, she feels she has found that this mode of transportation not only helps her get to where she needs to go but can also enrich her day. She appreciates the kindness of each person who stops to help her along her way.