Big bear sniffs, Little bear rubs

With all the warm dry weather the bears have been more active than in past years.

It's much easier for codgers to get around in the woods in beautiful dry weather, but it's ominous when the insects are prematurely abundant and trees are blossoming early.

I dread thinking about wildfire this year.

But life goes on in the barranca.

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Unexpected appearance of a British Beaver

The British love their wildlife, because precious little of it remains.

Even when this rare beaver mysteriously appeared and started chewing up the trees, the property owner showed commendable forbearance.

Enjoy the article and film clip.

And thanks to Richard Lair for the link. (Much appreciated, Richard.)

What are rats good for?

If you've ever asked yourself that question, read this now!

And be sure to watch the video of the rat kennel and training facility.

[Thanks to Rod Jackson for the link]

Wanna Go Walkie?

Every now and then I used to dog-sit for our good neighbors who own Fred's mom, Roxie.

At the time I had just gotten my new GoPro Hero2 with the various mounts and waterproof case, and "the walkie" seemed a good opportunity to start using the equipment.

Here you get some glimpses of three slightly deranged creatures enjoying each others company in the heat of the summer.

A Hollow Log

I've been scoping out the woods for hollow logs, meaning potential den sites, and the "jonah log" was an irresistible camera trap location.

I wasn't optimistic, because even the light from an infrared LED could dissuade an napper.

On the other hand, Craig and I had a gray fox take a high noon siesta in a cave where the white flash pulsed continuously, and it wasn't bothered in the least.

As you will see (and yes, I expect you to read this BEFORE looking at the video) no one took a nap.

But even so, there was a interesting selection of visitors.

Bath Party

"Damnit, some lowlife took a bath and poisoned the waterhole".

That was my first disturbing thought when I saw the white scum on the water.

It didn't smell like Irish Spring, either. But what was it?

I was visited by ominous thoughts until I got home and uploaded the video files.

Then I saw the culprits.

My pool had been the scene of a wild bath party.

Happy New Year, my friends.