Tree Treasures
Since Cottonwood Creek is named after the Cottonwood tree , it is only fitting to highlight Arlington ’ s native trees and the plants and animals that are typically found living in or on them .
Photo 126480835 , ( c ) Zachary Chapman
Common Greenshield Lichen
The Common Greenshield Lichen is usually found on tree bark . It is a symbiotic organism made up of algae and fungi , but doesn ’ t harm the tree because all of it ’ s nutrients come from rain and the surrounding air .
Photo 239590877 , ( c ) Tommy Farquhar
Photo 108912229 , ( c ) Charley
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warblers are one of the only warblers that can digest the wax coating on berries which makes it the most common warbler to see during winter . They also like peanut butter !
Pecan Tree
Pecan Trees can be found throughout Arlington . The tasty tree nuts are enjoyed by many people , as well as many critters like squirrels , raccoons , and possums .
Photo 213050181 , ( c ) Brooks Oakley
Osage-Orange Tree or Horse Apple Tree
The Osage-Orange Tree or Horse Apple Tree ( Maclura pomifera ) is a native tree to Central and North Texas . You might recognize it for its characteristic grapefruit sized green fruit .
Photo by Edgar Salazar
Galls
Galls can be found on the leaves of the trees throughout the watershed . They are usually caused by wasps or midges . They sting or deposit their eggs in the plants and the plant forms these galls around the egg as an allergic reaction .
Photo 461076912 , ( c ) Ben _ b41
Photo 418133934 , ( c ) Themisfiitgarden
Texas Spiny Lizard
The Texas Spiny Lizard typically scurries off at the sight of people and have adapted great climbing abilities . Their camouflage is excellent for Texas trees .
American Mistletoe
This common holiday decoration is a hemiparasitic plant . This means that is cannot survive without a host organism but can photosynthesize on its own . Its fruits are toxic to humans , but a favorite of some birds .
Southern Jack-O ’ -Lantern
The Southern Jack-O ’ -Lantern is a brightly colored mushroom that typically grows at the base of decaying trees . This species is aptly named , as the gills can glow in the dark ! This mushroom is not safe for eating , as it is mildly poisonous .
Photo 247452283 , ( c ) Maureen
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