Critters

Since many of you asked me questions about the kinds of animals we have so close to us in nature, I thought I'd show you a sample of some.

This little guy is a Chipmunk. They run around the yard all day, hiding food everywhere. They of course love nuts and we have some of them eating peanuts out of our hands. Actually, they'd pop them in their cheeks - go hide them and then return for more.

I awoke one morning and saw a Heron standing on a log in a sheltered bay. This Heron family nests every year here but it is very difficult to get a picture of one. I was able to get one as he (or she) was taking flight.

Last week I saw a Doe (female deer) standing in the bushes. She saw me but she didn't move which is very unusual. I ran in to get my camera and even after all that time, she just stared at me, almost as curious to see me as I was to see her.

Now this critter might give some of you some

negative feelings. It is a baby Black Rat Snake. Rat Snakes are very timid and docile. They love to lay in the sun on cool days and look for cool spots (like under this deck) on hot days. They are very helpful for gardeners, eating small rodents like mice after constricting them. Large ones can reach as much as 8 feet long!

Now I don't really care for snakes. We don't really have any dangerous snakes around and I don't mind these ones. Black Rat Snakes have been an endangered species because they are so tame and they are easy to catch - especially for little boys. However, recently they are making a comeback because the laws don't allow them to be killed.

Just a few critters (slang for creatures) that live with us at the cottage. Now Anna, remember I told you that I would show you a picture of that fox who stood peeking in our living room window at home and then laid down in front of our steps for almost an hour? This is one of those pictures from last Christmas. See everyone - no snow yet!

Bye for now everyone and hope you're having a great day!