deer superhighway (myworld)

Last week, I wondered if the extreme cold (well and consistently below freezing temperature) had an effect on the wildlife and birds I saw – or didn’t. Intuitively, it seemed like it should, but the obvious is not always correct. I still have no scientific evidence, and haven’t had time to look up any information, but when the temperatures warmed a bit and the ice and snow began to soften and recede, I saw more signs of life. You may draw your own conclusions.

For several days, the snow was unmarred. Then, by Friday, we’d experienced enough sun and warmth to clear the streets and sidewalks (Mt. SnoMore remains, somewhat diminished, at the end of the driveway). Evidence of life and activity returned in the form of deer tracks.

I’ve heard from our next-door neighbor that the deer sometimes huddle in a small stand of trees in the vacant lot on the other side of his house. Our yard is directly in line between that shelter and the shallow part of the wetlands behind our other next door neighbor’s yard. The deer use that shallow spot to ford the creek and pass into the open farmland beyond.

At first, they went directly through, apparently without pause.

Subsequent days, they wandered over to check out every piece of living plant in the yard for its potential as a food source.

To see the world through others’ eyes, visit “That’s My World”, a weekly meme sharing photos and impressions of all the world seen through the bloggers’ eyes and lenses.