This is only vaguely related to the Bridge Project; however, because I am staying in Montana for the summer, having a pet just became a possibility.
I have never before committed myself to any living creature that is solely my own--as it stands, my mother is still taking care of a certain cactus named Giselle for me, because my life is too unstable to support a cactus.
 |
| Giselle is a pretty lady. (Courtesy of Clint Whittle) |
As pathetic as that is. Anyhow, being a wildlifer, animals are a pretty important part of my life, and recently my roommate's cat was relocated, leaving a cat-sized gap in the household.
If you think this is leading to me getting a cat, you're quite wrong, but I did choose another pet that is reserved and a little prickly.
 |
| Introducing la bella crab, Belle! |
Up until about a week or two ago, I wasn't even aware that people kept crabs as pets, because I am that well informed. But my other animal-starved roommate and I looked into getting a fish and somehow stumbled onto other beginner aquarium animals.
We spent quite a while researching the needs of hermit crabs before we decided to get them, but I must admit I was sold as soon as I heard the crabs' homes referred to as "crabitats." Because that's just darn cute.
 |
| Call him Indiana. |
When Winston first crawled out onto my palm, my reaction was both excitement and a little terror. Their alien legs are so hard and pointy, and the large purple pincer is a little intimidating. I've never played with a bug-eyed crustacean before--my usual pets are of Class Mammalia and a bit cuddlier.
 |
| Belle and Winston would make a great indie band! |
They are actually really great pets. They seem stimulated by human attention, and will come out of their shell to see what's up when we hold them. They also poke their heads out to be misted with water. Curiosity is an admirable trait in any animal, and it's almost surprising to see in a crab. As a wildlife biologist hopeful, it seems like a good idea to learn such things. (This is where I justify getting a pet as a valuable learning experience).
Also, they seem pretty self-sustaining, which is a plus because I'm going to be on the move all summer. Speaking of which, Bridge Project is slowly progressing. 2/3 of my thesis committee is on board, and I am approved to register for Thesis 499. I've started writing my proposal, and it's all gettin real folks!
 |
| Coming soon to a bridge near you! (photo mdt.gov) |
I am still a little sad about not returning to Alaska this season--not because I am not grateful for this amazing research opportunity, but because I wish I could divide myself like an amoeba and send Second Me to Alaska while First Me gets down with the bats here in Montana.
Amoebas aside, the future is looking pretty bright right now. More caving, more friends to meet and experiences to share. No complaints here.
-E.W.
 |
| *Update* Belle comes out of her shell!! |
