Sticking with the featherless theme again for today’s post. I try my best to be accommodating for my non-birder readers whenever I can. Having recently processed this set, figured there wasn’t a reason to let the chemicals dry before releasing them!
Back in February of 2015, I had the opportunity to visit my parents in Springfield IL. The camera came with me in hopes of heading out to Washington Park to see what kind of ducks were hanging out in the ponds. If you recall, the last time I was there a number of Wood Ducks made their happy way into the tin. (link here). The Woodies were still there this trip, but a small bundle of fur ended up stealing the show.
Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing a number of squirrels – like here and here. A lot of those were taken out west, but a few of those also featured the Eastern Fox Squirrel (at least this is what I think this specimen is). However, this little gal (again, a logical guess) was quite animated upon discovering the big glass of The Beast pointed directly at it. It suddenly became very possessive of its recently discovered acorn.
“Ummm, you looking at me over there Mr. Puny-man!?!”
Hit the jump to see what kind of attitude Mr. Squirrel brings today.
“Wait, are you staring at My Precious!?! Well, don’t you get any ideas over there, this is MY nut and MINE ALONE! … and yes, this is my sexy Zoolander pose
“You talkin’ to me, you talkin’ to me. you talkin’ to me. Then who the hell else are you talking… you talkin’ to me? Well I’m the only one here. Who the hell do you think you’re talking to? Maybe you are talking to that snowman over there – yeah, that one over there that now looks like fresh snow because it had the audacity to look at me with a crooked coal eye so I shredded it.”
Put ’em up, put ’em up! Which one of you first? I’ll fight you both together if you want. I’ll fight you with one paw tied behind my back. I’ll fight you standing on one paw. I’ll fight you with my eyes closed… ohh, pullin’ an axe on me, eh? Sneaking up on me, eh? Why, I’ll huff and puff and spit snowballs on your grave.
“Good lord, take it easy snowflake. I’m just sitting here taking a few shots so my readers can see how cute you are. Trust me, the breakfast bar in my pocket is far more appealing to me than that precious acorn of yours. I would offer you a bite, but I saw what your kin did to my roommate in Champaign – will never forget the hilarious image of him swinging his hand around trying to shake off a squirrel that had latched onto his finger. So settle down fur ball”
“Okay, but I’m gonna keep my eye on you”
One final shot before heading back to the truck. It’s the simple pleasures in life that make it all worth it. Whether it is enjoying the tasty acorn after long search or being able to spend some time just watching a spunky animal, nothing beats being able to forget the daily struggles and simply have fun in the snow.
Life is short, be sure you make the most of every day. Take a cue from the Squirrel – grab a seat, fold your tail over your ears to keep them warm (feel free to substitute ear muffs) and enjoy a few nibbles on your favorite food. Who knows, someone just might be inspired enough to take your picture.
How cute! It looks like it really interacted with you. And really didn’t trust you one bit!
Thanks for the non-insect post. 🙂
Ron
Trust is a fickle thing – some animals have it completely with me, others are a bit suspect and trust me for the most part yet keeps one eye on my movements to continually reinforce their belief. Then there’s the issue with CATS. Now those demon spawn just hat me. Every encounter involves some level of feline scheming to gouge my eyes out and steal my camera. Sooooo you liiiike insect posts and want mooooore insect posts. Will try to accommodate that in the future.