Wrapped in a moist cloak of salmon red, tiny packages of life carry the genes of the parent plant. As a unit they are consumed, a burst of flavor for a passing bear or bird. Transported to a new place, devoid now of the protective coat, they begin their lives as individuals. Roots reach into the soil, stem and leaves stretch to the light. Even as sprouts their lives are not ensured. Some survive to repeat the cycle - plant to fruit to animal to soil. Others die but not in vain for they have become part of the food of the forest, passed along through the food chain.
In the mud of the tidal flats of Kelp Bay, evidence existed of a visitor other than ourselves. Deep pads with five leading toes and long sharp claws imprinted a trail with impressive long strides. Tiny hooves left their mark too. Brown bear and deer shared the edge in search of the fruits of the sea delivered twice a day as the water swallowed the shore.
