snakes in the grass, treefrogs in the cord grass, and how to pronounce SPARTINA

Out for a walk at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge today, just a wonderful day with nice dry air and 80 degree temperatures.  The mild temperature tends to bring out some animals that seem to disappear when it is either really hot or really cold.  Above in an eastern cottonmouth, also known as a water moccasin, that made its way across the parking lot at the refuge then curled up in the grass.

And here is a tiny green treefrog clinging to some cord grass.  I was delighted when my guide referred to cord grass by its scientific name, so much so that I asked her say it three times.  Listen below.  So maybe I do know how to pronounce the name of my own boat.