Sometimes, when life is taxing and my mind is swirling with anxieties and worries, it’s calming to walk in the woods with the camera. Then, for an hour or two, I’m focused only on searching for treasure in the trees. Sapphire bluebirds and ruby cardinals, onyx squirrels and black capped chickadees. We walk slowly and I scan the bushes beside the trails and the tall trees beyond. Usually, it is movement that draws my attention. Then, I focus on the color and shape of the critter. In winter, most creatures tuck themselves away in hidden nooks to stay warm so it’s a treat to see even common birds and animals.
This week, we were blessed with a couple of “warm” days. The snow melted. The trails turned muddy. The birds and animals came out to look for food and socialize. Today, we saw a troop of 5 or 6 juvenile gray squirrels. They ran and jumped and seemed to play like little kids. The leader ran up a tall tree, then out along a branch until he could go no further. Then, he leaped to an adjacent tree and scampered down the trunk to play in the leaves on the ground. The others followed single file until each of them had demonstrated his climbing and jumping skills.
The marshes were quiet today. The woods, too, were largely still. But, every now and then, we came upon a spot with a great deal of activity. It was like the birds had all decided to meet up in one area to catch up on the gossip. Woodpeckers rapped on rotten trees. Chickadees and titmouse darted around grabbing up seeds. Squirrels munched on walnuts and berries. When we approached, they dispersed with a flutter and a scamper. But we just stood quietly until they reemerged. I was grateful for their company!
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1 comment
So nice!