A HEADS UP ON THE WEATHER

As is common in rain forest like climates, Lucigo only ever experiences two distinct seasons. The first, which consists of what we commonly refer to as spring and summer, is referred to the dry season. The weather is hotter, ranging anywhere from 30-50°C (86-122°F). There isn't a lot of rain but it's mostly overcast and humid, taunting the animals below. Most often smaller bodies of water dry up completely forcing animals to move to the larger ones that do not lose all of their water.

Just when you think you can't stand this heat there finally comes a break in the form of the wet season, which would equal autumn and winter. The weather is cooler, as cold as 15-25°C (59-77°F). Living up to it's name, the wet season brings rain and lots of it. It gives the earth a chance to refill it's water sources as well as feed everything that grows. As common as the rain is, it still isn't all that bad, especially since some of their relatives may be experiencing snow and bitterly cold weather right about now. Those who have lived their whole lives on the Island are more adapted to the warm weather and months of continuous rain, so those coming in through the vortex might have a harder time dealing with the change.



NEOTROPIC SAYWHAT?

So, like many of us, you see island and think gorgeous sandy beaches and lovely waterfalls and heat. We're not going to disappoint you because there are plenty of all of those but there is also so much more to discover. The island of Lucigo is, for the majority, occupied with rain forest land but there is a section of desert along the coastline as well as a mountainous area.

Let's start with the jungle. From the sky Lucigo Island looks almost uninhabitable. I mean, it's a complete blanket of green aside from the desert so how are herds of horses supposed to roam it? It's deceiving, the trees. Although the treetops are heavily meshed together in a giant canopy, the undergrowth is rather sparse. The broad-leafed trees keep out most of the sunlight so the plants that grow on the ground are small and can only really flourish in areas where the trees give way to open space. This forest floor provides a place for herd animals to roam, specifically the horses. It's typically very dark and the older horses should keep watch of their young while travelling through these areas. Above, in what is known as the under canopy, large cats find their haven. Jaguars and ocelots are known to lounge in the branches of the trees, hiding and waiting in the shade. The canopy, the next layer up, provides housing for snakes, toucans, and tree frogs. They are able to navigate their way through the mazes of leaves and branches. The highest layer is known as the emergent layer. Horses should hardly be concerned with this elevation but they are aware of it's existence. The shrieks of howler monkeys floats down from the heights and it also houses bats which might swoop from their haunts at night, catching the bugs that frequent the lower layers.

Next we introduce places like the Glade. Should an area become free of the sun-stealing trees the ground will become consumed by foliage. Fire and heavy tropical storms can take out trees but it's anyone's guess as to what created the glade. Though many horses catch their sunlight via the Glade, the ground foliage may be cause for concern. The lack of overbearing trees has given way to crowding of shrubs and tall leafy ferns. It's rather easy to navigate because after years of residing here, deep paths have been carved by native Lucigon's. However, the predators have adapted to these changes as well. It isn't uncommon for jaguars and pumas to descend from their higher perches and take to hiding amoungst the wide-leafed shrubs. Foals should be particularly cautious while travelling the Glade and be advised to stay on the paths marked.

For reasons unknown, Lucigo also plays host to a section of Desert. This area is characterized by dry brown rocky ground and little foliage. The sun is merciless in this area due to the lack of shading trees but it can be a relief from the dense humidity of the forests. What plants grow here are hardly edible but consist of succulents and a few acacia trees which provide small amounts of cool shade during the day and are typically highly sought out. In some places a blanket of dry brittle scrub grows but it's for decoration and isn't advised to munch on for a snack. There is little to do in the desert but sunbathe. Enjoy!

Last to explore is one of the most frequented area of Lucigo. It's commonly known as Narique Pond but it isn't actually a pond. This section is actually a part of the forest that has flooded. It's more of a swamp than anything and could have at one point, originated from a pond but after years of heavy rainfall may have branched out to become what it is today. In addition, many of the rivers feed into this area, only creating more collection. There is something strange though, about this area. The trees that create the rain forest areas of Lucigo Island are unable to grow in such water-logged ground. Yes, they still stand and continue to grow but it is more common to see smaller trees, which allows the water to feed all sorts of creatures. The area is fairly open, allowing the equine residents to "let their hair down" and have a bit of fun in the water. There are predators that come into the area but it is nice and bright here so when they do approach it is easier to detect them and flee.