Early in March during a family gathering, we discovered “Anchialine ponds” on the Big Island near where we were staying. An Anchialine pool or pond is a landlocked body of water with a subterranean connection to the ocean. We were so fascinated with the ponds we found ourselves walking by them 2 or 3 times a day. I brought my coffee cup and watched the sunrise near the ponds.

I brought my crew of intrepid naturalist explorers to see what discoveries we could make near the ponds and the sea. They all are naturally curious so it was great fun!

This is the path to the ponds and the sea.

One morning we discovered a “Black- Crowned Night Heron” patiently waiting for breakfast on some lava by the pond. I owe the identification to my 12-year-old grandson Owen who used iphone “Google Lens.”

The ecosystem is quite fascinating. Tiny red shrimp called “Opae’ula” are unique to the ponds and found only in Hawaii. Also, clear glass shrimp “Opae huna” are found.

A beautiful morning on the way to the ocean.

Bougainvillea next to a lava wall.

Marla and our daughters walk by the ponds before breakfast.

A sleepy feral cat quietly observes a heron as it searches for food.

I hate when cats can’t read!

Hawaiian cats dreaming of…SPAM!

Such a unique and peaceful pond.

The sun begins to set and the ponds glow with a beautiful iridescence.

The Big Island continues to fascinate with it’s amazing diversity and contrasts. The Kona side is primarily dry and somewhat barren, while the Hilo side is beautifully lush and green, with a number of tall waterfalls along the coast. I can’t wait to return and make new discoveries. “Another Mai Tai please.”

Photos: Dick Gentry. Not to be used without permission.