Small Delights

It's been ages since I posted a squirrel blip! This little Douglas squirrel was happily ensconced in one of our hanging bird feeders, gazing out into the trees and relishing the bird food -- until all of a sudden he realized that a large creature was standing very close to him.

He slowly squeezed out of the feeder and stood on the deck rail, not blinking or moving, even when that tiny insect few into his face (main photo). After a few minutes, he very slowly rose to a sitting position (extra), and again froze for several minutes. 

Finally realizing that I meant him no harm, he sauntered along the deck railing and nonchalantly headed for lower ground. I think he'll be back...

The other extra photo shows a pair of European Starlings that have been examining the flicker nesting box for several days now. They've taken some bits of grass and leaves in, but don't seem ready to settle down in their potential new home.

After a long winter, it's delightful to have so many engaging diversions just outside our windows!

Blip 2004