Post Hurricane Shelling; Eta was here for days so I went shelling three times!

[@jtb8155]

I know this video is a couple of years old - but I still wanted to thank you. I loved the way you videoed the Florida Fighting Conch, underwater. You are wonderful about educating us - so cool! I’ve watched all your newer videos, and now I’m watching your older ones. They have all been interesting. Thank you for taking us to the beach with you. ❤️❤️❤️

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thank you so much! I am 1/3 of the way to becoming a Florida Master Naturalist. I hope to be able to continue to learn and share all the amazing things I encounter!

[@Lucy_Bayard_John]

With a snowstorm outside, your videos bring me joy!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Stay warm beach friend!

[@cazee100]

I love that you are so respectful to the critters 10/10 for that.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Always! Thanks so much for watching! 🦀

[@chrisbgifford7387]

After storms came in on Galveston beaches I would pick up the "greenery" and gently turn it over. That is when I found a seahorse that was still alive. It was a great find. I took it back to the water and hoped it would survive. I would have collected as many smaller one, to make Angel to put on the Christmas tree. All that white against the green, would be so pretty.

[@patembry3373]

That would make a beautiful tree. ❤️

[@SWFBeachLife]

We only found one seahorse so far down here - it was spectacular to see it alive like that not in an aquarium! I've been rewarded by checking out things that I thought were one thing and turned out to be something completely different. I just love checking out things on the beach I guess. All those angel wings was crazy! I do have a few and a handy husband - maybe I will put a few on my tree!

[@elaineplante9276]

Thank you so much for showing the critters in their homes. So coool

[@pattyvalinote8737]

Wow 🤩 Jackpot on the angel wings!!! What a neat Christmas Ornaments put together!!! Hope you do a shell tree for us!!! Thanks for sharing!!!

[@SWFBeachLife]

We do have a shell tree! It's not completed decorated yet and we have lots of materials to make ornaments from :) Thanks so much for coming along with me on my walks!

[@jtcowboy5518]

I love long videos actually! Thanks for taking us along!

[@SWFBeachLife]

You are so very welcome! I just felt I HAD to share :)

[@amandacurrier8450]

The long video was FANTASTIC! I feel like the more I watch the more I learn, and as a result I feel so much more prepared for my move to Florida! Also I love how this video turned more into a critter saving mission than a shelling trip haha ❤️

[@SWFBeachLife]

Yeah....one video on it's own was a little boring but string them all together and we have a beach saga! Oh I wish I had a channel to watch when I was planning on making the move! At least now you know what beaches will provide shells should you decide to move to SWFL. I love finding the critters that make the shells we love - well I guess I really just love everything beach :) Thank you so much for coming along with me!

[@leighanncronin6905]

Thanks for sharing! Really enjoyed this one!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you so much for watching!

[@OMGGitsCAROL]

That was so cute when you turned it around and said “taken” 😂 The critter agreed it was a cute shell ❤️

[@SWFBeachLife]

I always have to check to make sure there is "nobody home" - the snail could still be alive or some hermit crab could have claimed it first! I'm happy to wait until the shell is empty. Sometimes it drives me crazy but fair is fair. Thanks so much for watching!

[@louettahuddleson7194]

I would have picked up as many as I could find and enjoyed every single one of them.

[@SWFBeachLife]

After the first 10 angel wings I just kept collecting! There were SO many of them! Wasn't that nuts? Thank you so much for coming along with me!

[@dianesalvato8421]

Wow! You certainly hit the Angel wing jackpot. I would have picked up all of the whole ones as well. They are one of my favorites.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I'll keep that in mind next time and reach out to let you know where to get yourself some angel wings! There certainly were plenty to go around! Thanks for coming along with me - and loaning me some of your shell books! xoxo

[@dianesalvato8421]

@@SWFBeachLife I would appreciate that! When I find one I know my mom is looking down on me from heaven.

[@justBEingjada]

I love how it turned into a rescue mission

[@SWFBeachLife]

Not what I expected! However it was low tide so it does make sense. Thank you for watching!

[@Me-mt8it]

I love watching your videos.. your voice is so relaxing. I’m being educated and enjoying watching at the same time

[@jenuine1590]

3 days for you and 42 minutes of some awesomeness for us viewer.....thanks for the beachy goodness

[@SWFBeachLife]

That was a LONG video! Thanks so much for coming along!

[@marlenemcdaniel2304]

I absolutely love that you found so… many angel wings. They would make a beautiful pattern of a cross or something like a larger angel wing form collage either on canvas or in a lawn art piece. You did pretty well in other types of shells as well. Impressive finds most times you go out. I think I would have done the same and picked up every angel wing that was a keeper. There are so many possibilities with that many together. I truly enjoy your walks. You have a great heart for all things live. It is encouraging to see a like minded person out there involved with keeping that web of life going. Thanks again for the walk.🥰🌟

[@SWFBeachLife]

I have since learned that if there are a ton of a certain type of shell - go for it and keep as many as you like. You never know you'll ever see an event like that again. I'm glad I took so many - they came in very handy for quite a few people needing them for projects. Thank so much for coming along on my walk with me!

[@SaltyReflections]

Another awesome video! You find such great treasures! Love the tulip! Yes I would keep the angel wings! You know I am a shell hoarder! 🤷🏼‍♀️💙🐚

[@SWFBeachLife]

Wish I could use a handy cart like you have! I walk too far and it would just be a pain to manage. You have a great set up! Thanks for coming along with me!

[@kathylenhart2BGODS4Ever]

@@SWFBeachLife i have never found a sea shell ever, would like to know if either of you have been to ocean city maryland if you have do you ever find shells

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@kathylenhart2BGODS4Ever Yes I have been to Ocean City Maryland and I didn't really find any shells. However, my sister in law went to Asseteague after a big winter storm and she got TONS of the knobbed whelks!

[@laurawoodruff3484]

I recently found your channel and binge watching like crazy.....I’m from Michigan and a big rock hounder,so many fossils and cool rocks...watching you find beautiful shells takes me to a happy place

[@SWFBeachLife]

I think all of us "hunters" know the thrill of seeking that special treasure and finally finding it. Show me a beach and I'll find something interesting to admire!!!

[@bonniericica6895]

It's fun shelling, for whatever the gulf gives you in shells is always different! Love your video's!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thank you so much! You are so right - I NEVER know what I’m going to find. Thanks for coming on my walks with me!

[@andradavis7201]

thank you for sharing with us your the best thank you for taking the little critter back to the ocean your an angel sheller..............from a fan in red oak tx.............for ever a fan............on to the next video.......

[@staceycordell607]

Such beautiful shells and most occupied! That was so much fun seeing the critters who inhabit those gorgeous shells. Thanks for taking us with you.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I love when I find shells AND critters but I sure which I could have kept a couple of those beautiful juvenile Florida Fighting Conchs. Hopefully one day I will find an empty pink one! Thank you for watching!

[@jackh4959]

i went to the beach for my birthday yesterday and kept naming the shells i was finding because i watch your videos so much! i was so happy with what i found because i’ve never found them before, keep up the great videos!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Happy Belated Birthday! I'm so happy you're learning along with me! I am a nerd at heart (don't tell anybody) and I love learning and exploring and of course...the shells. I'm so glad you found some birthday shells! Thank you so much for watching!

[@krysw4233]

Crazy amount of angel wings! Thanks for another great video!!!

[@SWFBeachLife]

It was crazy! I wish I could of had a real angel wing lover with me. I like them just fine - but what was on that beach was crazy. And stinky - LOL! Thanks so much for watching!

[@artiejohnson703]

That was fun to see how different the shelling is before & after a storm. Great finds, yes I would have taken all the nice angle wings. They are so pretty. Love your channel ❤️

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thanks Artie! I'm glad the winter is coming because apparently that is the best time to go shelling. Yay us! We have lots of shells to find together!

[@jennifermiddleton8713]

Thank you for sharing your beach trips with us all!! These videos are great! Also I live in Michigan and won't be traveling soo so this is super great! Thanks again!

[@SWFBeachLife]

You are so very welcome! There are so many messed up vacation plans this year (boo). I'm glad I can at least get you to the beach virtually :) Stay warm! Thank you SO much for watching!

[@lynnscott8286]

I would love to find things on our beaches. Just beautiful

[@tracyriordan7011]

How cool to see the FL fighting conch in action! ( : Always ready to spend time at the beach virtually or in person!! Yesss! At the beach, shelling, is my happy place! ( : Yay a shark eye and wee little FL Fighting Conch! Soooo sweet! An operculum! Never found this shell before! ( : Love the FL cockle! We find a lot of Cockle's, clams. And oyster's up here in new England! ( : My favorite are the jingle shells up here too! ( : I never saw or heard if coral called a sea whip either! Sooo cool! ( : Sooo much driftwood too! I make beach doorbells with small sticks of driftwood! ( : I would've grabbed them too! Lol! ( : I love the skeletons of shells!! Soooo beautiful! ( : Wow! That FL Fighting conch you found was soooo orange and beautiful! ( : Look at that little FL Fighting Conch go! ( : Wow, that was a super spiny jewel box! Wow! ( : Yayyyyyyy!! A nutmeg with nobody home!! Sooo cool to watch the FL Fighting Conch in action underwater!! Soooo cool! ( : Yayyyyyyy!! You found a FL Fighting Conch you can keep and two beautiful pink ones!! They were beautiful! ( : A live scallop!! Ahhhh! Soooo excited to see this! ( : Wow, why would a hermit crab be living in a teeny auger! That doesn't look comfie at all! ( : Yayyyyyyy!! Two nice lightning whelks and an orange scallop and a rough scallop right after!! Nice! ( : Awwww...that American Oyster Catcher Bird was soooo cute! ( : Third day is a charm?! ( : Yessss!! An angel wing, and another, and another!! Very beautiful! ( : Wow!! Soooo many! Love it! ( : Angel wing jackpot for sure! ( : Wow! ( : I would've taken them too! ( : Soooo beautiful! ( : Another angel wing and a coconut! ( : Lol! ( : I have to say, I probably would have taken all the Apple Murex your hubby found too! Lol! ( : Pretty cockle's! ( : The top snail's are soooo cute! ( : Wow a top snail and lightning whelk together just waiting for you to find them! Lol! ( : Another spiny tool box. But a live one now!! Yayyyyyyy! ( : It is apple.murex time now! How funny! ( : Tons of murex now and a banded tulip!! That's awesome! ( : I thought there would be piles of shells after a hurricane too! ) : What a haul and 77 angel wings!! What a find!! Holy moly! ( : Lots of shell angel ornaments to be made with those! Sooo cool! ( : Thanks sooo much for taking us all along!! ( : ♥️♥️♥️♥️🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@SWFBeachLife]

Those hurricanes can sure leave a ton of goodies on the beach! It was so different what I was finding each day too at all the different locations. I'm hoping to find some goodies after the storm we're having now passes by!

[@lindamccoy4871]

I love the small shells.

[@robingallion8564]

I love walking with you on the beach and learning about all the shells. Thank you foe sharing all your knowledge. It’s so relaxing for me. I live in northeast Ohio. Wish I could be in FL during winter months. Perhaps next year. Happy shelling. 🐌🐚

[@amykitzmiller9987]

You found some beautiful shells. This was a very fascinating video. Thanks for sharing with us!

[@SWFBeachLife]

You are so very welcome! Thank you so much for watching!

[@carolmusso7767]

How sweet that your husband was shelling with you! I really enjoyed this video, and I’ve been trying to name the shells before you do. I’ve learned so much from you! Thank you! ❤️🐚

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@lndadaines2994]

As you ha w gone on your seashell hunt on the islands I kept expecting you t o see some angel wings. Now where you are today there are a whole lot.. I love them. Your videos are to me awesome. I also like the way where you pick up all sorts. It's amazing. We are shell collected and so were my mum and our nana. Love the shell combing on the beach is awesome one. We live in New Zealand. Linda.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thank you for coming to the beach with me all the way from New Zealand!

[@delyadraghici]

Awesome! Big thank you for sharing all these amazing shelling trips!

[@SWFBeachLife]

You are so very welcome. I really have fun making them so it's my pleasure to share them! Thank you for watching!

[@yaa63]

Thanks to your underwater takes of the Fortifying FL conch I FINALLY understood the purpose of the shape the shell has...Thank you!!!!

[@SWFBeachLife]

You are so very welcome! Believe me, I'm surprised all the time at the things I'm learning. Thank you so much for watching!

[@annjohnson543]

Wow, those angel wings!! It's like when you buy a new car, all of a sudden that's all you see on the road. LOL. I found a connected angel wing and was SO excited. After I cleaned it, it came apart and I could have cried. Such are the things that happen when shelling.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Oh it's almost IMPOSSIBLE to keep the hinged angel wings together! The membrane that keeps the shells connected dries out and cracks with the slightest movement. I'm impressed it stayed together as long as it did! I'm more traumatized by the shells I couldn't keep!

[@Onora]

Thank you for sharing your beautiful shells. I have a question, when you collect, what do you use to carry your shells down the beach while you are looking? I know you said before you use a special container for sand dollars. Could you show us your collecting bag/box/whatever?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I have this mesh bag that I've had for years that seemed like a good idea to use. It had 2 handles and I converted it to an over the shoulder bag. It's not perfect - but it works! And I was using a small food container for the sand dollars and other delicate shells and I had to switch to a bigger one since I've been finding big sand dollars! I'll show a shot of it in one of my upcoming videos for you!

[@tinaharbit1806]

I loved all the live critters! Thank you

[@SWFBeachLife]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@fouraces1949]

Cool finds!,, love the sea whip!

[@dally8399]

Love the scallop two different shells 💖

[@mlgauss60435]

Loved your video, never too long for me! As far as the Angel wings go? Why not!? Thanks for taking us along with you!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thanks so much for watching! I figured people might be curious so why not show it all. Next week is negative low tide at Little Hickory. The live tulip is awesome!

[@mlgauss60435]

@@SWFBeachLife can't wait!

[@caseyhandmade3259]

been waiting all week for a new video and started to get worried! then i saw the length of the video... SO worth it. haven’t even watched it and i already know it’s gonna be a good one!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Every Sunday 7pm I'll be there! This one was LONG and took a while but I got it done! My favorite walks are the ones where I can see some critters and bring home some shells. Mission accomplished I'd say. Thank you so much for coming along with me on my walks!

[@annabenjamin8409]

You are so much fun to watch! I would have picked them all up!

[@SWFBeachLife]

I certainly picked up a few 🤣 Thank you so much for watching!

[@lisar9314]

I say take advantage of whats available, if its angle wings that day good deal cuz the day ur looking for them they will aloud u! Happy hunting, Happy Thanksgiving, and God Bless u and urs!

[@SWFBeachLife]

You are so right! Sometimes you only get one chance at picking up those shells! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family too!

[@carolscott4327]

Amazing! Never think a Video is Toooooo Long! It’s my only ‘get away’ when you take me along on all the Beaches with you! Love your Style! The info you Share! The Close-ups are Great!! The sky and surf are so beautiful! THANK YOU for making this old, house-bound Canadian 🇨🇦Greatgrandma 👵🏻 a Happy Happy Girl!!🥰☀️🌊🦀🐬🐚🦐🐡🐚👣👍🏼🙌🏼💕😍

[@SWFBeachLife]

You are so very welcome! I wish everyone could come and enjoy the beauty of SW Florida but just in case you can't - at least I can take you along on my weekly walks! xoxo

[@tinacloutier7654]

Beautiful live shells 🐚 I really enjoy seeing the live ones as much as I like seeing the ones that you can take home with you

[@vickimata2669]

I would say, get what the sea gives you that day, because the next time might be totally different. And you will not find a one angel wing. Enjoy. We were just in Florida in May , 2021. We loved it. Beautiful shells.

[@Cherrymount5872]

I really enjoyed this video, and yes most certainly, I would have collected every vacant angel wing I could find!!! They are a beautiful looking shell. It was a great shelling day for you and us watching in.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thank you so much for watching! This was a Long Beach walk (3 days) and I was surprised each time at what I found. All those angel wings were crazy! Thank you so much for watching!

[@tinacloutier7654]

The Florida fighting Conch the little one was amazing. The live one.

[@revmomvpable]

You are on the beach I go to with my family. We stay at Seawatch and love the variety of shells we find there and down towards the south end of the beach. So much fun to watch your finds!! Thanks for doing this!

[@SWFBeachLife]

That's my favorite spots! South end of FMB. We love it there too! Even today I managed to find a few goodies :) Thank you for watching!

[@kholbrook203]

Thank you for taking me to the beach and for such a great video. I’m glad it was long. I really enjoyed it.!❤️❤️❤️

[@SWFBeachLife]

Well I went shelling three times and I didn't want anybody to miss anything! Thank you so much for watching!

[@dianejait5117]

Snowing here ,got 15 cms on the ground so I could watch this for hours.Thanks keeps me sane.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Are you from Canada? I've met quite a few lovely Canadians down here and I know the border is closed right now. I'm glad I can at least virtually get you to the beach! Stay warm!!!

[@dianejait5117]

@@SWFBeachLife yep from Quebec the french part of Canada. I look forward to all your videos. You do an amazing job. I have learned a lot.

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@dianejait5117 Thank you so much! I'm happy to share my love of the beach with all!!!

[@deer1696]

This landlocked ND girl would love a box of those angel wings! They're lovely! I'd have kept picking them up too.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I might have gone a little overboard but I couldn't help myself! :) Thanks so much for watching!

[@tinacloutier7654]

What wonderful Ornaments for Christmas you can make with those angel wings make love to have some to try

[@tammybales7271]

I love all your videos. They bring me so much joy during this time of Covid. It is like just being at the beach. Also, I enjoy how your husband is there with you helping out. Plus, I love the olives. I can never pass them up. We hope to go to Sanibel sometime this year. Thank you for sharing all your finds. Just love it!!

[@SWFBeachLife]

I don't know how anyone can resist olives. Especially the pointy, shiny ones! Thank you for coming along with me on my beach walks. I'm glad I can make you feel like you're at the beach with me. We have a lot more beach time ahead in 2021! Happy New Year!

[@tinacloutier7654]

Can watch your videos all day long ,and all winter ❄️ in Canada 🇨🇦 makes me very happy girl love y’a 🥰

[@sophialara9680]

Loved the shells and all the animals great vid

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thank you for coming along with me!

[@brendagroff8478]

I would pick every single one that was perfect!

[@Gingy50]

There was a big black shell that you've never shown us, it was big and long but you passed it by 😢 loved the angel wings, they look so beautiful 💖

[@SWFBeachLife]

That was probably a pen shell - not to worry! I do pay attention to them in the future!

[@jshilohshea381]

Sorry another storm hit then doubled back ! But happy you are safe and having a great time shelling ! I'm learning the names of these beautiful shells ! Stay safe !

[@SWFBeachLife]

We were very lucky down here this hurricane season and nothing more than a bit of wind and a little flooding. I'm glad the 2020 hurricane season is almost over! I'm glad you're learning your shells - you'll know all the names should you come for a visit. Thanks so much for watching!

[@tinacloutier7654]

Beautiful horse Conch !

[@Fishy-lb3vr]

I just spent a week on Sanibel island and didn’t see that many shells all week. I only get to the beach every few years so I would pick up all I can for crafts and displays. Thanks for your videos. I was a little disappointed in what was there. 🏖also very few birds.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I have found that walking, lots and lots of walking, does increase your chances of finding shells. And this time of year the shells are indeed harder to find, so walking in the water at low tide is going to increase your chances of finding anything. I'm sorry you were a little disappointed in the lack of shells, but I hope you enjoyed your time at the beach anyway. ☺️

[@tinacloutier7654]

Love the beach life !

[@melaniewhittington7857]

I love your shelling adventures. I hope to get back down there one day. Watching you makes me think I’m there❤️

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thank you SO much! I hope you get to come back down here too but in the meantime I'll keep bringing you to the beach :)

[@andreah.5962]

I probably would've taken a few angel wings, but if they float your boat then grab 'em! I have a soft spot for bubble shells, and I'll take every single one I find. Really enjoyed the underwater footage of the fighting conch! That was neat. I also liked seeing the spiny jewel boxes with actual spines. I wanted to find a keyhole limpet on our last trip, but I didn't. I thought I hadn't until I started cleaning our shells and, surprise! He was stuck up inside one! Bonus two-fer! Lighthouse Beach on Sanibel is good for finding wentletraps. We found several there.

[@SWFBeachLife]

So basically you magically found the one shell you were looking for without even knowing it! That's AWESOME! That lighthouse beach is not kind to me - it's beautiful and great for photos but I've never found any good shells there. I hear that lots of other people do so I'll give it another try. Dying to find a wentletrap! Thank you so much for watching!

[@hurtadocp]

I loved watching this video.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thank you! It was a long one!

[@lindarichie2585]

I love this and I’m learning a lot I didn’t know so thanks ! Love all the critters you found especially the spiny jewel ! I am surprised that u didn’t find a lot more and bigger shells as well after the storm ! Oh well still a beautiful day at the beach!

[@SWFBeachLife]

I was really hoping I'd find some big shells too but it wasn't to be. At least I got a lot of other goodies :)

[@pearlanderson1913]

Thanks! It worked perfectly. Now I won’t miss any.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Yay!! I’m glad that worked! See you next Sunday!

[@nivekyentrouc1200]

I was visiting Sanibel in 2015 and I was wading off the South end near the light house when I found a Spider Conch with all 6 appendages intact. I was pretty proud of my find, it was unoccupied so it was a keeper. As I came out of the water, a local elderly gentleman tried to take it from me claiming it was illegal to keep it. I knew better as it was empty. Is this type of shell valuable?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I'm not sure about value, but don't let anyone ever take your shells! That particular species isn't from around here, so not sure how it got on the beach. Maybe from a beach themed party somewhere - I've found a few of those myself. Definitely a rare, cool find, unfortunately, it's not a Florida native species though. And now I'm just wondering why someone told you it was illegal to keep an empty shell!

[@nivekyentrouc1200]

@@SWFBeachLife Thanks. We're visiting FMB again the end of September and looking to exploring the beach again.

[@vickiesdouns6093]

Look at the wings! Yes I would have collected the Angel wings too. Lol.. I have a list going for my friend that lives in Crawfordsville..😀 on her next beach visit.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I just found a few "fallen" angel wings! I have seen them in books but never found them myself. I'll be sharing those in a few weeks!

[@barbarajarrett3185]

I really enjoyed the longer video! Thanks!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for watching!

[@daisymay4183]

Great video. I would have collected all the angel wings i could find. There might be days you don't find any. Love the video and learning as I stroll along with you.👣

[@SWFBeachLife]

Yes, since this day shelling I've decided the same thing. You never know when you're going to see those shells again! Thanks so much for coming along on my beach walks with me!

[@Lara-fx4ex]

Nature is beautiful

[@SWFBeachLife]

It sure is!

[@janetpullen5210]

Nice experience at night... I have done this before but didn’t find a lot...but enjoyed your walk at night..u did good

[@SWFBeachLife]

It was nice to experience night shelling and I now know what to expect should I ever try it again but I wouldn't try it again unless a storm or something had come through. I'd rather just stick to the day shelling :) Thanks for watching Janet!

[@dixiebrumagin4804]

Great finds. Loved the video.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thanks so much! ❤

[@shellstories]

I liked seeing all those live guys, but it can get a bit frustrating when all of the nice shells are inhabited. Those live Florida fighting conchs where really cool! I also liked your true tulip at 29:10, I'm sure it'll clean up really nicely!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Yeah...it's a bummer when there's somebody home. I had never seen so many live juvenile FFCs - I couldn't believe the color of some of them. Those pink ones were gorgeous!

[@shellstories]

@@SWFBeachLife Yeah, It's happened to me with lightning whelks a while ago. There were so many big beautiful ones in tide pools but no keepers. They do look really nice though! I'm surprised there weren't any more of the keeper shells after all the storms. Perhaps at night was a better time? Different beach? Or maybe just the winds didn't cooperate.

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@shellstories All good theories. I stuck to the same beach but I did move around a little. I hate that feeling when I get to the beach and I start wondering if I should have went to a different one!

[@sarah7022]

Thank you ❤

[@maggiemax8065]

Wonderful video! I definitely would have taken all the angel wings lol. I also would have taken all the dead urchins you passed up! I don’t mind dealing with the stinky because the end result is so amazing! Thank you for another wonderful beach walk!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Oh they were everywhere! But I'm spoiled and the next big storm will bring more. I agree they are beautiful and so hard to keep intact! I've only cleaned maybe a half dozen of them so far. I'm running out of space with all the shells I have - LOL! Thank you for coming along with me for three days of beach walking!

[@gingermackeen5741]

Great video! Never too long for me 😉. You're getting better with the "mini's"! Some days, that's what I concentrate on finding. It's like a whole different shell world. Those live little cross-barred venuses were cool! I've never seen that here. The little spiny jewelbox is like the ones I've been finding at Lido! Awesome! The underwater video of the fighting conch was really great! Seems like the brighter the shell, the more certain it will be live. Some of those were gorgeous! I think most scallops are different side to side The bay ones here are as well. That was a record on angel wings! It's really weird how you get those dumps of certain species like you did with the angel wings and docinias. One time I was down there by the lighthouse on Sanibel, and there were tons of paper figs. Other than turbans, we don't see that up here. I wonder what made some of those shells pinkish... interesting. Thanks again.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I still struggle with some of those minis - why do they have to look so similar to other shells that only get that big? I'll get there and know them all one of these days. Those little FFCs that I couldn't keep were driving me crazy! Especially those pink ones - I've never seen that before and they were so darn pretty. That's so funny with all the paper figs - that would have been so cool! The ones we do have my husband wants to make Christmas lights from them. We'll see if he ever gets around to it :) Too bad he didn't want angel wings. That I could have helped out with! Thanks so much for hanging in there for the long haul!!! Happy Thanksgiving!

[@gingermackeen5741]

@@SWFBeachLife You guys have a great Thanksgiving too!

[@debralee5201]

I also went out three times after the storm here in Venice. Tons of shells, Florida Fighting Conchs! Found tulips, Whelks and more. Lots of shell piles too, so much fun. I love your videos!

[@SWFBeachLife]

So that's where all the shells went for this hurricane! I too was expecting shell piles but no such luck - well, other than that beach covered with angel wings and the apple murex. Did you find a lot of live critters too? Some of that was from going at low tide but I've never seen so many little live FCCs!

[@debralee5201]

@@SWFBeachLife yes, lots of live critters! Such fun to see them. I had to be careful also, thought I had checked everything thoroughly but found one alive after I arrived home. My hubby took him back, thankfully we're only minutes away!

[@debralee5201]

@@SWFBeachLife I can't wait to find my first Angel Wing!

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@debralee5201 As you know I had that happen too - I'm just glad we found them before it's too late!

[@BeachGirlStudio]

Love the long videos .....and love all the mini shells. For some reason I’m not find of the angel wings ...but loved the colorful baby fighting conches

[@SWFBeachLife]

I find myself actually liking more of shells that I didn't like so much when I first started collecting. The angel wings started as collecting and then kind of turned into a game. It was crazy how many of them there were! Oh those baby FFC were so dang pretty! Thanks so much for watching!

[@ZeldaZelda-RichesToRags]

I know it’s almost impossible but… could you please post the text/words of the name of the shells as they come up? Like the one that is the foot of the conch shell… Nopurculum? I found one long ago but was clueless to what it was until years later when I found a larger one…glad I kept it

[@SWFBeachLife]

Operculum. I do put the names up sometimes, but I just can not put all of them up. I just don't have the time. I actually started making a shell ID video but gave up on that too due to lack of time. Just give me your best guess as to what the shell is and I'll happily type it in the comments for you!

[@marthaburriss5740]

2 years later your video beach journeys are still bringing joy and calm to many. Thank you for sharing. What do you do with all of your shells?

[@SWFBeachLife]

Mostly I keep them in glass jars, vases and lanterns. I showed my collection in a past video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5fcYZ2iZdigpqc Then, I put some shells to the side to sell and others to do projects with. I've managed to complete 2 projects thus far. A shell mirror: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g5eYhImjbdJopJo And a shell photo frame: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmq4eqmnobStna8 And I finally opened an Etsy store! I will hopefully be adding more shell-themed goodies in the future! www.etsy.com/shop/SWFBeachLifeStore

[@christinesaunders9325]

I love the angel wings. I would have taken as many as I could. 🥰🥰

[@SWFBeachLife]

Since making this video I have decided the same thing! You never know when you're going to see that type of shell again! Thanks so much for watching!

[@staceysaunders6857]

I have a strange question??? How do these little shells grow into bigger ones? LOL I've looked it up on Google but I didn't Understand what it was saying lol

[@slvihelenevorrenaasand7835]

Just the same have I wondered about, as I understood from google; it is building up minerals from the body around the operculum along the edge of the shell 🐚 Some shells are left handed and some are right handed, it becomes that it grow more on one side than the other! 😂

[@SWFBeachLife]

Some, like the lightning whelk, grow a little shell as they wait in their shell casings to hatch as teeny tiny little snails with shells that continue to grow. The original part of the shell will be the very top of its spiral as it gets bigger. They build their shell as they get older, and they spiral around and around. I've recently heard you can tell how old they are by the length of their shell - I'll have to learn more! I'm going to study to become a Florida Master Naturalist, so one of these days I'll be able to share all sorts of snail info!

[@SWFBeachLife]

The lightning whelk is different from other shells because it's left "handed"! I bought a new shell book that I've been trying to find the time to dig into - hopefully there will be some info on this subject that I can share!

[@jesscvideo]

I collect shells where I live in Long Island NY and use them in candle votives, they look pretty with fairy lights. What do you do with all your shells? They would be pretty under glass in the middle of a coffee table

[@SWFBeachLife]

I get asked that question a lot!! I show at the end of this video some of the things we've done with shells: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmi2nneLmNuXoLc And then in this video, I finally got around to making a shell mirror I had been wanting to make: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g5eYhImjbdJopJo I have a few more projects I'd like to tackle - i just need to find the time!!!

[@debbieshaffer4948]

You do a great job on each on your videos!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Aw - thank you so much! And thanks for taking the time to come along with me! 🐚

[@debbieshaffer4948]

I would have collected all I could get. I have never found an angel wing before. Have you ever taken a branch or your tool to scoop shells out of the ocean and pick through the seaweed/yuck??

[@SWFBeachLife]

I always try to check the muck and turn over clumps of stuff - you never know what you’ll find! And I’ve since decided that if I see a bunch of shells I should get as many as I can. You never know when you’ll see or find them again!

[@deniseyoung5385]

In mid-December, my friends and I were down at South Padre Island, Texas and we also found a ton of Angel Wings in all kinds of sizes from about 1/2 inch to around 4 inches long. We brought a few especially pretty ones, but we wanted a nice variety since sadly we live in the land of no beaches, in North Texas.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I'd really like to see a live angel wing. I've seen pictures of them so I think it's possible, I'll just have to have a lot of luck on my side. I like a variety too! It's my favorite when I'm finding a little bit of everything. Thank you so much for watching!

[@SaltyReflections]

Isn't it crazy how sometimes there is so many of the same type of shell out of the blue!? 🐚

[@SWFBeachLife]

It is! And it happens a lot!

[@SaltyReflections]

@@SWFBeachLife Yeah it does!

[@tinacloutier7654]

Beautiful jewel box fab .

[@glicelglicelmoralesmorales7951]

Hey.. Thank you for be so Respectful with all those creatures 💕 ❤ 💖 💗 ♥ 💙 💕

[@SWFBeachLife]

Always!

[@storm2156]

I would have picked up all those angel wings too! Rarely see them come in like that in mass. I am so envious it looks like you found one hinged one too! Hopefully you can tell it apart from the rest! While I don't generally sell many shells I get, hinged angel wings are a bit on the pricey side, especially larger ones. Also a very impressive large nutmeg. It is indeed surprising where the big shell mounds are, I really am thinking the red tide may have really reduced a lot of the shell numbers a few years back. Although could be other factors, like wind direction, tide, even the dredging might be trapping some of the shells further offshore when they come in. Well, hopefully the piles will make a return in the future I will keep my fingers crossed!

[@SWFBeachLife]

I will have my fingers crossed for the shell piles too! I'm thinking a good winter storm should toss things around a little and make the shelling a little easier. Plus there are a bunch of negative low-tides coming up so I'm hoping shelling season is finally here!

[@ceeclearly6840]

New to your channel and don't live near a beach....but I love shells. In answer to your question I think I would gather what that day brought because shells without breakage and holes are always a lovely find.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Since making this video I have decided that if the shells are there, they should be collected. You never know when you'll see them again! Thanks so much for watching!

[@BDCF100]

Amen, year's ago while living on Guam I could barely wait for the Typhoon waves to calm before I was in the ocean. The best shelling was to tank dive around 20 to 35 feet where there was a natural end to the sandy bottom and a rise up along the outside of the fringing reef. that strip was loaded with fresh dead shells.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Wow! Scuba diving in Guam for shells. That sounds amazing! I can only imagine the incredible finds you must have brought home!

[@BDCF100]

@@SWFBeachLife It was awesome plus I was a short flt from Yap, Truk, Palau, Ponape and many other good diving/snorkling/shelling spots. A special memory I'll share with a fellow shell-nut. We've all seen the incredible Chambered Nautilus and probably bought a speciman. I know I did, but, one early morning just at dawn walking along a sandy beach edge down the Hibiscus hiway on the sw side of Vanua Levu in Fiji just before I reached the spot where I intended to snorkle for Mitres and Conus on the dawn trails in the sand I spotted a life find at the water's edge. Not a rare shell; you can buy them anywhere but it was a gem fresh dead Chambered Nautilus that floated in on the gentle waves. I was thrilled.

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@BDCF100 Isn’t it amazing that we can recall all the little details when you find one of the “good ones.” What an amazing story! I have only purchased scallop shells that were turned j to a little container. So far I haven’t bought any shells and the person who lived in the Florida home I now live in left me a bunch of fantastic specimens. So I inherited a nautilus. They really are amazing creatures! 🐚❤️

[@pfruitlupe]

A Can you tell me which beach is the most accessible? My husband and I can not kayak and need short walks to edges since we both walk with a cane. We live in Jax FL but going to daytrip or short trip to your area soon to look for shells!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Hi Penny - got your message on Facbook and I answered you there :)

[@mitzimorris4746]

I would have got as many as my hands would get in the angel wings, they are my favorite.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I wish you could have been there on the beach with me - there were plenty of wings to go around! Thank you so much for watching!

[@michellestone1261]

You need an aquarium at home you could put them in a saltwater aquarium the live ones. What do you do with the shells that you find?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I would LOVE a few pet snails! I recently shared my shell collection since so many people had been asking about what I do with my shells: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5fcYZ2iZdigpqc And then in this video, I finally got around to making a shell mirror I had been wanting to make: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g5eYhImjbdJopJo I'm working on a sea shell frame video now so I should be able to share that one as well soon!

[@kholbrook203]

I would have taken a bunch because I have never been to a beach where you can find such pretty shells. We winter to Outter Banks once and only found some clam shells. We went to Wildwood N.J. and nothing. Same for Ocean City MD. I am an advocate for sharks. I love those shark eye shells. There is one little beach in Southern MD. I have been to because you can find sharks teeth. Most are tiny but that is a fun beach. It’s on the bay so you only find oyster shells. I hope one day we can get to Florida. I have bad knees but I still would have been out there looking. Looking for shells and sea glass is so exciting! You have lots of treasure at your feet!!!

[@SWFBeachLife]

I too have been to NJ beaches (nothing) but my sister-in-law went to Assateague and found TONS of whelks after a big winter storm. We went down the week after and didn't find one single shell. I think up North the shelling is so much more difficult. I'm very fortunate to live where I do and don't forget those little scoopers can help with the bending! Thanks for coming along with me!

[@hannelizeweyers3247]

I love the angel wings and what a beautiful collection.i will create Angel's for my home ,to sell and for the christmas tree....the creative juices will just flow...a painting in shells may be?

[@SWFBeachLife]

Whatever you decide to do - I hope it turns out great! 🐚

[@shanaynay6652]

I would be hard pressed not to keep all the angel wings too. lo l I did go to the causeway on the night of the storm after it was reopened and the water receded a bit. I found a 17 inch cream and brown stripped Horse Conch! I was dancing in the rain" literally" until I turned him over and realized he was alive.. Needless to say he thumped off to live another day. lol Hopefully you and I both get some of that good karma and find our diamonds. As always thanks for sharing your treasures.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I'm reading your comments and thinking - WHY DIDN'T I GO TO THE CAUSEWAY! Then I see someone was home so you didn't get a big one either. Womp womp. One of these days! I think I'm going about finding that horse conch wrong. I'm thinking I'm going to need to really get in the water - which doesn't make a great video but I want that dang shell already! I'm putting wet suit pants and shoes on my Amazon wish list now. Happy shelling!!!

[@shanaynay6652]

@@SWFBeachLife I hope Santa brings them to you. As for me I will stay on the shore line. There are enough whales in the sea already.. lol

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@shanaynay6652 I hope Santa brings you some too! Happy Thanksgiving!