Tarantula

Tuesday, September 27, 2005: At 5:45, there was a guided "Sunset Stroll" through the dunes. One of the features of the area are large pedestals created by plants when they secrete fluid from their root systems, turning the gypsum dust into a hard, solid block. Many different animals use the pedestal as a home, including this tarantula, which emerged from a huge pedestal as our tour group approached. With about ten people mobbing the tarantula with cameras, I'm surprised it didn't turn around and go home.