Grabbing Some Grub

While driving along a road that runs through the refuge, we spotted several different raccoons, including young ones, walking around in shallow swampy water.  With the extremely hot temperatures and sparse rain, the pools were a popular place. At first appearance, the raccoons seemed to be wandering aimlessly around in the water.  However, after watching for a while, it became obvious that they were very methodically scanning the bottom of the pools with their sensitive paws in search of food.  It was interesting to watch the raccoons use their human-like hands to catch and handle the crayfish and frogs that they pulled from the water.

An objective is an ambition, and life without ambition is … well, aimless wandering.”  ~Alfred Wainwright

Changing Direction

This young raccoon came ambling out of a soybean field just as I was walking past on our country road.  Sensing my presence, it lay down and tried to hide in the grass. Realizing that it had been spotted, it quickly turned and headed back for the cover of the soybeans.

“It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.”  ~Charles Darwin

A curious raccoon

Most raccoons that I have encountered in the past have turned and headed in the opposite direction.  This raccoon, however, ambled right toward us.  I’m guessing he was hoping for a handout.

“The land comes alive through its wild creatures.”  ~Charles Fergus

A stroll around the boardwalk

You never know what you’re going to see while strolling around the boardwalk at Reelfoot Lake State Park.  Here are some shots that were taken back in June and July.

… Dust if you must, but the world’s out there
the sun in your eyes, and the wind in your hair;
flutter of snow, a shower of rain,
This day will not come around again …
~Rose Milligan

Clearing out

We finally had a couple of days of sunshine before Easter and were able to get out on some of the back roads to view nature.  The theme of our drive seemed to be “animals hightailing it out of sight”, as many of the animals were skittish and in a hurry to make a quick retreat.

“Timing has a clear and loud voice.  At the right time, step out and the sound will be heard by all.”  ~Daniel Evans