Conception Bay South, Newfoundland

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

On the rocky beaches of Conception Bay South, Newfoundland, there are many treasures to encounter. Here is a photograph of one such treasure. During childhood visits to the island, it was always such a thrill to discover one of these spiny creatures, or rather, the remains of one. This is just its shell, probably having been plucked from the ocean by a ravenous seagull, ascended to a dizzying height, and dropped......... then devoured!

It was during a sea kayaking trip just a couple of years ago that I was fortunate enough to meet a live sea urchin when our guide had removed a few of them from a lobster pot he'd pulled to the surface. I marvelled as I cradled it in my palm, watching as its spines slowly fluttered and swayed independently in every direction. Then, upon cracking one open, he asked who would like to taste one, its roe being considered a delicacy and all. Not being one to pass up a chance to try something new, I sampled its bright orange goodness.. I did enjoy its texture and saltiness and, strange as it sounds, was surprised to detect a noticeable flavour of canteloupe!

Below I've included a photo I took of the bottom view of a sea urchin shell that has lost its spines, revealing its symmetry. In my experience, it is pretty rare to find one in such stellar condition. Notice how it resembles a starfish in the arrangement of the white bands and colour blocking.

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved