In North America, a common wild animal is the Eastern Grey Squirrel. Technically a “rodent”, the Grey Squirrel is considered either a beloved neighbor or an unwelcome rat. I fall into the first group; when I had my own garden I enjoyed watching them dine on spilled birdseed laying under the feeder. CLICK on the image for more information. Copyright 2018 Pamela Breitberg
Love the thick, furry tail. Copyright 2018 Pamela Breitberg
Something was ruffling this Sparrow. Copyright 2018 Pamela Breitberg
I’ll share their name (kind) and parents in the next post. But these CUTE little babies were enjoying their freedom in the Rookery rich with Duckweed. We were enjoying watching them while exploring Flamingo Gardens in Davie, Florida.
Slowly, steadily, enjoying a first outing by themselves. Copyright 2018 Pamela Breitberg
New siblings swimming close together, being a little unsure,through the Duckweed. Copyright 2018 Pamela Breitberg
Cute but with powerful built-in defenses. Copyright 2017 Pamela Breitberg.
While we walked through Starved Rock State Park we came across this oh, so cute caterpillar. It was moving rapidly down the length of a rail making it a challenge to photograph. This is when I’m grateful for digital imagery; I can take multiple images in hopes of a few “good” ones and the cost is no obstacle as it was in the days of using film.
Fortunately, I did not choose to hold this fuzzy fellow. It was the larva of the American Dagger Moth (Acronicta americana). If I’d known the name I would have thought twice about its cuddly appearance. The decorative black spikes are its defense containing a poisonous liquid that quickly causes irritation and swelling when it touches one’s skin. So, if you see this fellow, look but don’t touch!
Young Robin with some remaining new-born downy feathers. Copyright 2015, Pamela Breitberg
Late in May, this young Robin appeared on one of the first-flight days for this young Robin. We startled him/her when we lunched on our patio next to their nest in our evergreen shrub. Six weeks later the Robin no longer visits the nest but has discovered the joy in bathing.
Young Robin socializing with neighboring Sparrow. Copyright 2015 Pamela Breitberg
Young Robin’s ruffled wet feathers after bathing in our garden’s birdbath. Copyright 2015 Pamela Breitberg