For Goodness Snakes

This sleek little slitherin’ serpent posed long enough to stick out its tongue at me as I took its photo. It is said that they do this to “pick up scent particles in the air.” Well, for goodness sakes, did the little critter smell me or taste me? Either way, it is welcome back anytimeContinue reading “For Goodness Snakes”

Twitterpated Pliliated

The loud, raucous call of an agitated piliated woodpecker drew our attention to a nearby tree where both it and a red-shouldered hawk were perched. The woodpecker was intent on harassing the hawk, which held its ground, seemingly unruffled. The confrontation was understandable in light of the fact that the hawk eats small critters includingContinue reading “Twitterpated Pliliated”

Gloomsday Scenario

Multiple layers of clouds racing different directions gave grudging glimpses of the sun through the early morning. An approaching cold front seemed destined to wring water out or the heavy, damp air, with some estimates of up to three inches of rainfall. Just after noon, gusty winds roared through showering the yards and streets withContinue reading “Gloomsday Scenario”

Part and Counterpart

A long time ago while hiking in Wyoming’s Wind River Range, I chanced across this small piece of shale, with a slight crack, seen in the upper left photo. I spit it along the crack and found a tiny fossil shell inside which can barely be seen in the two pieces in the upper rightContinue reading “Part and Counterpart”