Land/Water Wildlife

Well caught Hydrogardener! Isn't it wonderful when we spot something rare? It would be nice to think that she will pass the eye colour on to future offspring.

 

The photo was taken at the Five Rivers Environmental Center near Albany, NY. I drove back to the center a few weeks ago to show the photo to the staff. The staff at the center was just as amazed as I was. They said they would try to find an explanation, also, it was shown on local TV. Hunting is not allowed at the center, so as long as the animal stays on their grounds she is safe. So far, I have not heard from the center.

 

This young buck seems to have lost one of its antlers. That said, next season he will most likely have a magnificent rack.

Many years ago when I was a young man I went deer hunting one time only. I shot a small buck just like this and I found it laying in a stream. It was not dead but looked up at me with pleading eyes, like why did you do this? I had to kill the animal to end its suffering. I sold my guns, bought a camera and never hunted again. Hunting with a camera is much more difficult, but much more rewarding, now my trophies live on.

 

@hydrogardener Thank you for changing your pastime ... I thoroughly enjoy your current one! Not a pleasant memory for you.

 

I also came across the doe with the weird eyes again yesterday. The unusual coloration does not show up well in the shade. She is a big powerful creature and her look said you had better not come any closer. I decided discretion is the better part of valor so I moved on.

 

Common Seal seen from the bird boat tour round Poole harbour on a very cold morning.

 

A cold biting wind but even so the sun brought the Adders out from hibernation.


Two here coiled together.

 

Considering that we have had, and are still having a brutal winter, this white tail doe appears to be in very good condition.

 

Times is hard, now dont forget my sausages tonight.

 

No trip to Brownsea Island is complete without seeing Red Squirrels.
Someone had obviously put some peanuts down.

 

With the advent of spring Gertie our tame chipmunk is underfoot again from sunrise to sunset. Just looking at her you can tell she is full of mischief.

 

She is adorable. Thank you for sharing her with us as I have never seen one.

 

Lovely markings on her coat Hydrogardener.