RickyBelanger.PNW Colouring Books & Photography

The Giant dendronotus, Dendronotus iris. More recognizably known as the Giant nudibranch; British Columbia’s own Spanish dancer. When threatened, hungry, or bored, this massive sea slug (30cm long!) lifts off the sea floor and swims up the water column through a dramatic dance. Witnessing one of these dances is one of thousands of chance encounters that keep all of us jumping back in for more.

Recently I have read that there are not one, but TWO species of Clown dorid (pictured) on our coastline. I have yet to narrow in on the distinguishing features but look forward to more photos of these beautiful animals soon!

THINK BEFORE YOU SINK! (Your crab traps!) On a dive on Southern Vancouver Island, my trusty dive buddy and I encountered several lost and abandoned crab traps. One of these traps had been separated from its buoy at the surface, and another was intact, but had simply been abandoned (based on the absurd amount of algae and life on the cage and rope) Seeing those crabs run free to live another day warms my heart, but sadly this is not the first time I have found abandoned traps.... In total, I have 'rescued' crabs from over 6 different traps in the region, and those only include the ones that I have found. Here is a link to more information about safe and successful trapping: https://waves-vagues.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/Library/365613.pdf

Bittersweet. This designation by the IUCN is long overdue. While sunflower stars remain in some areas, they need our help.

Yet another beauty from Monterey, CA. This is the only Purple striped jelly I have ever seen, (or have been stung by)! Nowhere near fatal to the touch, but the sting lingered during my entire visit to the Monterey Aquarium later that day.

Snail fish. One of the many things that upon moving to Vancouver Island, I had no idea existed. No wonder! This group of animals is particularly elusive, and often only seen at night in regions fit only for the most ambitious of scuba divers.