2009: A Year in Review

As the last hours of 2009 wind down, I feel compelled to do the usual review of the goings on in my yard. 2009 stands out for the following reasons:
-I set the camera trap in a new location by a new compost pile.
-The yard attracted the usual cast of characters: foxes, deer, raccoons, squirrels, and frogs.
-Three species returned that had disappeared--the chipmunks (which disappeared after a snake was seen), the bat (which only briefly stayed in our window, but then was seen frequently flying back and forth at night), and a toad (which had been absent for years).
-We had a record snowfall in December, a whopping 16 inches!
-I discovered three new species! A salamander, a humongous polyphemous moth, and an owl (only heard, not seen).
-My blog gained a whopping 8 followers! In my wildest dreams, I hoped for 5, and wound up with 8. Could more be in store? You know, I never wrote my blog expecting anyone would read it. (Can you tell?)
-My new obsession with wreath making began, using homegrown invasive Chinese wisteria vines.

Happy New Year!

When Mother Nature Hands you Vines, Make Wreaths

Yes, I finally found the perfect solution to my invasive vine problem. I identified the vine as Chinese wisteria. I now get satisfaction out of cutting out the vines, because I can turn something ugly and out of control, into something controlled and festive. Happy Holidays!
 

Blizzard of 2009

We received 16 inches total. Must be that crazy El Nino.
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
This is a picture of the camera trap. I took it inside so the snow wouldn't cover it.
 

 
 
 
 

First Snow of the Season

 
 

Mr. Fox

 
 
 
 

Mrs. Fox

I was lucky enough to get pictures of Mr. and Mrs. Fox, who came and scent marked a couple azalea bushes. The female came first, giving a come hither look behind her, and left. Then came the male, who also rubbed on the bushes, and ran off.