Flora and Fauna
The following images, puzzles and commentary present only a modest portion of the plants and animals we have encountered and documented throughout many years of research in the Land of Flowers. It is our sincere hope that this information enhances your research and enjoyment. Please feel free to browse, and study the detailed articles related to our journeys, featuring additional on site images. We can be reached via email with comments and questions at: contact@DiamondLegacyAmerica.org
Scarlet Hibiscus
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Lovely image of a scarlet hibiscus in the Summer Season at “Osprey Florida” near Gulf
More than half way through our two-day Journey of Appreciation to a small town some call “Osprey” in the Land of Flowers, we saw one of the most captivating plants we had ever seen. We were documenting Moorish American Heritage at an Ancient Aboriginal Mound location and found this partial wetland area sequestered, just off the Gulf of Mexico. It was a hot summer day so we were pleased to slow down momentarily and observe the plants. And as we patiently browsed with our eyes, this precious vision came into view...WOW!
The flower is called the Scarlet Hibiscus (also Scarlet Mallow) and we saw this exquisite beauty at the perfect moment in time for these native jewels bloom for only one day. We were marveled at the sight.
White Star Sedge
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White Star Sedge found during the Spring Season close to the Withlacoochee River.
The first time we saw these splendid creations, we were hiking through a forest near the Withlacoochee River doing field research on connecting waterways within the Territory. At the outer boundary of the hammock, and in partial sunlight we saw a patch of these small, almost orchid looking flowers with what appeared to be green grass tips projecting from the ends of each white petal. I asked Lillie If she had ever seen it before and she said she hadn't...neither had I.
Upon research during the evening, I found out they were called white star sedge or even white-top sedge and what I assumed where petals were actually called bracts. They are native to North America. Over the seasons we began to see them in prairies partially because we knew where to look. They are said to be pollinated by the wind yet we have observed insect pollination.
Male Red-bellied Woodpecker
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A male red-bellied woodpecker searching for food on a Journey in the Ocali Territory.
I don't know why red-bellied woodpeckers are named as such when their bellies are pale however they are beautiful birds. It is said that they are searching for insects when they knock, knock, knock on wood and from the video footage we've recorded in the field, this is true.
Yet and still, these unique birds play to a rhythm all their own and they usually position themselves high enough in a tree that nothing can interrupt their groove. It is like, “Whether house, tree or whatever, if it’s wood, it’s all good”. These little headbangers like to jam and wood is their beatbox of choice (Feel the vibration?). The red-bellied woodpecker is native to North America and we have seen them throughout the Land of Flowers, mostly in forests with hardwood, deciduous trees. Males have a red crown which spans back to the nape and with females, only the nape is red. These birds seem somewhat shy and will fly to another tall tree if one gets too close.
Bottlebrush Plant
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Bottlebrush plant (shrub) with beautiful scarlet, tubular blooms in the Spring Season
It has been reported quite frequently that this plant is native to Australia and naturalized in America. Though we have only seen it used as an ornamental plant and not growing wild on the landscape, it grows strongly here in the Land of Flowers. Also, it gets heavily pollinated by honey bees during the Spring Season.
We have seen bottlebrush growing as a shrub and also as a twenty-foot high tree loaded with bottlebrush flowers. It is reported that some folks use the leaves and the flowers steeped into hot water to make teas and that there are many medicinal aspects to the plant. The bold tubular flowers are head turners and accentuate any setting.
Cypress Tree and Knees on the Chipola River Apalachee Territory
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One can easily discern if they are about to walk under a cypress tree by looking at the earth under the crown spread; also a degree of focus is necessary to avoid tripping over the cypress knees. These woody protrusions sticking out of the earth at varying heights are part of the root system of the prevailing tree. Most of the cypress trees we encounter are in an area of frequent flooding, like near a river or large creek. Water may not be apparent in the moment, however after a hard rain conditions will likely be different. This has been our experience, none the less.
There seems to be much contention over the true purpose of cypress knees and how they benefit the tree. For us, it is clear. The tree and the knees are one and the same. If the surrounding earth supporting the tree becomes submerged, the tree raises up knees like a breathing apparatus, completely organic. Cypress trees thrive in wetlands.
Greenbrier, Smilax Ocali Territory
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When you see something often enough in nature, eventually a familiarity develops or a least a curiosity. We see greenbrier throughout the Land of Flowers mostly under a shady hardwood hammock or along the prairie especially under a mature tree in moist soil. It will take a little slowing down and focus to spot it at first because it doesn't flash a big bold flower to glean attention from pollinators. This climbing plant grows strongly from an underground tuber. Some folks love it for its heart-shaped leaves, and wild edible shoots, yet others are looking to get rid of it because of its thorny stems and tendrils that hold fast to other plants, trees and fences as it reaches higher for light.
I've eaten the fresh shoots off the growing end, however only from secluded areas. There are hundreds of different species of smilax with diverse qualities and shapes, most of which I am uncertain. The plant shown in the image is the most familiar to us. We wish you well on your journeys of personal discovery. Please do your own research. Studying for the brain is like walking or swimming for the body, it keeps it fit.
Wild rabbit “Timucua” Territory Cacema “Florida Shingle Creek“
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On a Journey of Appreciation near Cacema, Lillie and I set out to see aspects of a waterway called “Shingle Creek” that we hadn't experienced before. Though we had seen many portions of this creek closer in “town” throughout the years, with apple snails, gators, owls, wading birds and vegetation, this journey led us deeper into seclusion than we planned. We walked for hours, found the waterway and observed the fish while listening to singing birds and eventually the inevitable happened...we got lost (I guess we took too many exciting turns after another). As is typical during the Summer months in the Land of Flowers, we heard the first deep rumbles of thunder late into the afternoon. Well, we know we need sun, wind and rain for a healthy body so we continued onward. It rained just a bit which served enough to cool us down from the hike however we still needed to find the entrance/exit/whatever! Just then we hit a break in the tree-line and saw something else that peaked our attention.
About three hundred feet ahead of us we noticed five or more wild rabbits hopping around like it was the thing to do. We smiled with joy and slowly approached closer. I had the camera and stand ready. To my naked eye the wild rabbits appeared to have more of a reddish-brown hue than what was recorded on camera (I'm just saying). This particular rabbit in the photograph. which we were closest to, raised its ears (both of them) which signals more than expressiveness and more so attentiveness and alert. Did we approach too closely? We paused. I thought, “Hey little bunny, we're plant-based like you are, just with the cooking skills and fine dining thing going on; we're just admiring your foraging skills and such.” We continued to watch them forage for vegetation, move in and around each other's space blithely, grub some more, then wander off into the distance together. Wow! Shortly thereafter, the signage on site confirmed our follow through and we sighed with relief. It “never” fails, “When you get lost, you kinda find yourself anew.
Wild Berries near Aboriginal American Mound Okeeheepkee River
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The first time I set eyes on berries like this in the field, was near Lake Okeeheepkee before one of the largest remaining American Mounds in Apalachee Territory, in the rain during the Summer season. I hadn't done the research on this particular plant at the time so I used better judgment and documented the experience yet did not sample. Feeling pretty confident that we would see berries like these again, if research agreed, I would taste them in moderation.
More than a year later, Lillie and I found a good size blackberry shrub while five miles into an eight mile hike through verdant Timucuan Territory. Standing in sandy soil under tall longleaf pines, I reached to pluck the richest, darkest berry on the bush. I held it forward momentarily so we both could observe, then closed my eyes and ate. It tasted ever so fresh and slightly tart, maybe citrusy. Letting go of previous expectations while continuing to savor, I felt as if returning full-circle from the previous encounter with this plant near Okeeheepkee Mounds yet with increased gratitude. Patience is a virtue.
Image of a bee hive in a mature oak tree trunk, Ocali Territory “Florida”
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Bees are exciting and in the Land of Flowers they are highly respected and appreciated. When one hikes throughout the verdant landscape, bursting with ornate flowers, some gifting sweet smelling fragrances, it is important to at least contemplate the necessity of pollinators of which bees are essential. The hive we documented in “Timucuan” Territory was observed during the winter season hence the low activity and the bee brood (mixture of pollen and nectar) left apparent in the hollow. (continue to image/commentary below)
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This image was added to show a honey bee actively pollinating in the same Territory during the Spring Season. The process of pollination is challenging for forager bees and thus can decrease their lifespan considerably (reportedly because of oxidative stress (seems the 20% rule appears to apply to bees also) compared to other worker bees. Pollinator bees may travel greater than three miles away to collect the best pollen or nectar for the colony. The queen bee tends to hold the greatest longevity.
Image of turtles on a fallen oak tree Ocklawaha River
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If you hike along ponds, lakes, streams and river banks in the Land of Flowers, it is very likely you will see a group of turtles laying on a fallen log and sunning together. Be watchful for nearby American alligators as they prey on some of the species. In the picture above and slightly out of focus there is a gator climbing off the bank and on to the snag or fallen tree. The turtles are facing in the same relative direction so they could be staging to flee. They are a partial aquatic species and can likely bust the move in the water if need be.
Image of pine trees at Salt Spring near the Pithlachascotee River
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After an enlightening journey to experience, observe and document an Aboriginal American Mound along the Pithlachascotee River, we traveled to a nearby salt spring to study the waterway and vegetation. Early into the hike we approached a bevy of longleaf pine trees not dense enough to form a shady hammock, which let sunlight reach plants below. The forest stand density and the signature crown spread of longleaf pine, allowed for a prairie like environment which is better suited for them to thrive as well as other plants and animals that rely on their natural stature. A clear view of the beautiful, clean sky was blissful. We paused in appreciation and for documentation. The tall longleaf pine tree trunks before us were strong with thick resilient bark which can survive through surface fires over hundreds of years. The branches held long, rich-green, pine needles as cover to protect its apical meristems elevated in the canopy. The aroma of fresh pine permeated our senses with wonder. The Longleaf Pine Tree stands tall as a testament to beauty, strength and resiliency.
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The vast Allodial Estate of Moorish Americans has suffered tremendous loss unto devastation due to the usurpation of the green gold found in the natural resource of longleaf pine trees along with other plants and lifeforms. Tens of millions of acres have been stolen, cut down and squandered throughout from “Maryland to Texas” by “European colonist” performing in an unbalanced manner. We, the True Americans, and the People of this land, are rising to the responsibilities and the benefits of our Bloodrights. We are honored and inspired by the good works of our beloved Ancestors and the knowledgeable ones here today who help guide a great and noble People to restore peace and prosperity by Natural Law.
Love, Truth, Peace, Freedom, and Justice
Robins bathing in shallow pool during spring rain
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Robins bathe in shallow pool in the rain during Spring season in the Land of Flowers
When the wake robin (trillium) starts to blossom in the spring, it is said to be a signal for the namesake birds to return here along their migratory pathway from Canaanland to the Yucatan and beyond. Robin songs most certainly fill the air during the Spring season in the Land of Flowers especially in the early morning. These cheerful birds are joyous to watch as they roost, frolic, bathe and forage together and both male and female protect and defend their young and their nest.
Their dark colored heads (males are darker) are accentuated by their bright yellow beaks and white rings around the eyes. Their brownish-gray wing feathers almost frame their bold, reddish-orange bellies. Robins seem to lift the spirit of the Spring season just by showing up together and being natural. We are thankful.
Swallow Tailed Kite in high flight, southeastern native raptor
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Swallow-tailed kite soaring over the landscape in the Spring
I think the first time we heard about swallow-tailed kites was on a journey to see migrating manatees cruise into the clear warmer waters at what is called “Three Sisters Spring”. Lillie remembers hearing about them on a birding journey we experienced near the Ocklawaha River. Either way it took us almost two years to find one. We were doing research on Seep Spring in Ocali Territory and also on native plants on location. Upon arrival, Lillie pointed out a red cardinal searching for food in the grass. We admired it for a few moments, and then it happened! High in the sky a swallow-tailed kite soared on the wind almost effortlessly.
Its large wings were outstretched as it cradled the wind with its signature tail feathers in harmony. Wow, we both watched with total admiration. It was flying fast yet didn't need to flap its wings. We were hoping it would fly just a little lower so we could get a better look and...WOW again, it did! It lowered its flight path to about 80 to 100 feet above our heads, then re-ascended. This stunning bird graced our presence for only a few more moments and soared out of sight. We were in bliss and still are. Somehow we were able to align our footsteps with this particular bird’s migratory pattern and we were not even aware of it till after the fact. Life has its own rhythm so take your time and show up with diligence. What you truly want to experience is being magnetized towards you. Peace
Coralbean Mid-Spring
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Coral Bean or Cherokee Bean plant found growing in a field near pine forest (Spring)
When we gain the good fortune of seeing a coral bean plant, we always stop to observe it, even if only for a few moments as we have seen them frequently while hiking through fields and meadows. We usually spot them somewhere along the border of a pine forest and a field, and not deep under the shade of tree cover. Coral bean grows well in moist sandy soil as do the pines. The slightly less than bold, red color of the tubular shaped flowers still attracts attention, especially as it sits atop its tall woody stalk. When there are a bunch of them growing together, the affect is magnified.
Coral bean, also known as the Cherokee bean, is a native plant to North America which grows in the southeast. It is frequently reported that coral bean seeds are toxic. Some folks do boil and eat the petals though. We haven't as of yet because we have not seen it in great abundance to glean a meal.
Passion Flower mid-spring
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The Passion Flower found near the Palatlakaha River during the spring season.
The first time I can remember seeing this exquisite flower, Lillie and I were on a Journey of Appreciation along the Palatlakaha River. When I rested my gaze upon it, I was perplexed. How could this be? Is Creative Fate just showing off divine artistry like, “Y'all ain't the only ones that can weave”. The body of the flower appeared to be woven together and stylized with gentile organic fibers. Its soft purple hue with a delicate, light-yellow colored center actually shocked me with pleasure. Say what? Upon further observation, we noticed the off white petals (ten of them) in the background. I could go on, however it is much better to experience it for yourself.
The wild passion flower is a native plant to North America. Passiflora is a vining plant with reddish-brown tendrils that it utilizes to climb higher while finding support into the light. Extractions from this plant are utilized to create medicines to alleviate anxiety, hyper-activeness and sleep disorders. Being in nature, outside the walls and artificial lights of a building is cathartic and the pure height of good therapy. I know for sure that this fascinating plant simply inspires me with its unique beauty.
Monarch Butterfly viewed at Halpata Tastanaki Preserve Ocali
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Is this monarch butterfly feasting on a wild grape leaf or resting from a long day of pollinating plants or both? I thought that milkweed was their only choice of munchies.
Appearing as an exotic flower in flight, this amazing creature presents an impeccable example of will and graceful determination. Its very need to break through its protective cocoon empowers its wings for future flight and lifelong journeys. Unintimidating and somehow encouraging, butterflies are like an ambassador between humans and insects. I feel their very presence guides my thinking towards inner peace, like a rainbow.
The fortitude to complete a great journey and return home again is clearly demonstrated in the migratory pattern of the Monarch Butterfly. It survives its journey by a force planted within the fiber of its being that spans through multiple generations of itself. The mother butterfly lays its eggs on the milkweed plant and attaches the egg to it. The caterpillar eats the leaves of the milkweed and builds strength as it spins its own cocoon to transform within. When it emerges, it does so full grown and ready to follow through. It is born from its mother’s egg intelligently placed, feeds itself and builds its temporary home, covers the distance that it can and prepares the next leg of the journey. I am astonished!
The Prophet Noble Drew Ali described a great truth through his words before he passed form. He explained that a thought of Allah can not die for truth is aught and is ever present. Only a lie or what is naught dies, fades away and shall be no more. Peace be unto you mighty Moors on your great Journey of Truth.
Milk Thistle plant being naturally pollinated mid-spring
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Milk Thistle flower being naturally pollinated in an open field during the Spring season
Traveling extensively throughout The Land of Flowers, we have observed this intriguing plant quite often in various territories. Its bulbous pinkish-purple flowers and milky-white colored veins running through its dark-green, sharply pointed leaves commands attention. From the Cacema River to the Apalachicola and beyond, we've seen it growing strongly at different stages of development in diverse soil types. Researchers say it is native to North Africa and invasive to North America. [Inside thought: Native to the Kingdom of Morocco and foreign to the Empire, with both coasts bordering the Atlantic? To lend better clarity, research the continental drift of land masses and also how this plant propagates its thousands of seeds per plant via the wind and pollinators.]
Edible uses for this plant are frequently talked about among foragers yet its medicinal uses seem to glean even more focus. Teas, supplements and “pharmaceuticals” are derived from the active ingredient in the seeds called silymarin, used as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Milk Thistle, also called Holy-Thistle, is used as a tonic, mostly to alleviate liver abnormalities. It is important to mention that when attempting to convert formal evidence (no matter how credible the source) into experiential knowledge, one must tread lightly as our bodies have unique sensitivities. It should also be noted that the milk thistle plant has been studied and utilized for thousands of years all over the world.
White-tailed Deer in field
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Herd of white-tailed deer near forest and pond to their left in Alachua “County“
Lillie called my attention to this small herd of deer as we were traveling through Alachua “County” doing research on our Aboriginal Heritage in the territory for the “Law School Mound” article. White-tailed deer are native to North and South America and are said to be smaller in stature because of the heat. They are herbivores, also called browsers, that get nutrition from green growing plants, shrubs and trees, eating stems, leaves, twigs, nuts, fruits and acorns seasonally to thrive. White-tailed deer forage for grass and alfalfa in open meadows and fields. It is reported that they even eat lichen (instinctively avoiding ones containing cyan-bacteria) and also mushrooms for sustenance as well.
Deer prefer prairies and some wetlands because there is more vegetation or browse than under a forest hammock with less direct sunlight. They head into the pine forest at higher elevations for added protection and cover during severe storms. Female deer (called does) can birth between one to three fawns after a seven-month gestation period. Young deer or fawns are reddish-brown in color with white spots to aid in their natural camouflage in tall grasses and bushes. Male deer develop antlers in the spring through the fall seasons; however, they shed them each winter. We photographed this herd in late December so there might have been both male and female deer present. As we observed from a safe distance, our hearts filled with peaceful kindness and appreciation.
Blue Day-flower found near Wekiwa Creek (Rainbow River) early Spring
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These beautiful Spring bloomers are native flowers to the American Continent
To experience anew along a familiar secluded pathway is welcomed and this happens naturally during a change of the seasons. In the Autumn, leaves slowly descend to the ground from tall trees in a myriad of colors, as a wisp on wind. However, this was the first day of Spring which is a Moorish American Celebration. We traveled to a beautiful spring in the Land of Flowers near the Withlacoochee River. Indigenous people called this waterway Wekiwa Creek. We always enjoy something inspiring as we hike along Wekiwa Creek and this day was no exception. Just about a half mile into our walk on a narrow dirt trail headed toward the waterway, we noticed a striking shade of blue from a small plant, that beckoned us to investigate further. I mean, we just don't see flowers pop blue hues like this everyday.
As we approached these flowers, yellow speckles became apparent. These are the anthers, which sit atop the filament and contain the pollen essential for plant reproduction. This flower will bloom for only one day and yet there are many more just behind, ready for their chance to burst open and be kissed by the sun. We are fortunate to experience, capture the moment with research and photography and to also share if only a modicum of what this plant has to offer. This wild flower is native to America and grows beautifully in well drained soil and even partial sunlight. We give thanks with sincere hopes to encounter this unique wild flower again and again.
Creative Fate has gifted us with its Divine Presence through Natural Law. Clothed in living fibers that appear and appeal to our senses in a myriad of characteristics, fragrances, hues and expressions of which good care and appreciation is owed. Moorish Science is more than basic awareness and study of the boundless Laws of Nature, it is the daily practice of good balance, measure and appreciation to the best of our means; for ourselves, our families and our Nation. Our Birthrights ensure our Allodial Estate. With love as our guide and breath as our fuel, we experience ourselves anew in each moment.
Love, Truth, Peace, Freedom and Justice