Todays drive

[golden optimist]

We went for a 20 mile drive and pretty much saw all the animals we see around here. This was our large animal circuit. The other circuit we do is water foul/bird based. The first surprise was the elk herd has moved back. We saw about 25 or so. This herd is usually larger but they may just be the leading edge. About 1/2 mile further on we saw our pair of nesting bald eagles. They were in their normal spot but we don't always see them. Another mile down we saw 6 mule deer. We had never seen them in that location before.

Looping back around we drove into Rabbit Mountain open space. We didn't expect to see much here because the annual elk management fiasco had the main part of the area closed due to a small number of elk hunters tromping around. Thats probably why the elk had moved down the road a few miles into private property. Much to our surprise we saw a small herd of about 8 mule deer. After going up the road another 1/2 mile we had to turn around. On the way to where we saw the deer we were surprised to see a big buck. about 6 points per side, standing just off the road looking at us. We stopped and watched him. We were in our lane and he was across the other lane about 6 feet off of the road. And me with no camera. We watched him looking at us for several minutes before we drove on. About 2 miles from the house we saw our wild turkey flock. There is about 25 in the flock. All along we saw about 20 hawks. They sure seem to like sitting on the power poles and in the dead trees.

It sure is enjoyable searching out and observing the wild life. We are fortunate to live in the area we do. The wildlife has adapted to the people and you can sit and watch them.

Leonard

[russau]

I assume your correct in the movement of the herd was due to hunter activity's AND a probable early Winter coming in. I expect to see a early heavy snow come in for the Mid-west soon. Next week I'll probly put my snow plow onto my ATV and retire the riding mower !

[Hoser John]

Sounds like heaven to me-John