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I put a bowl of grain out every night for the deer.
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But lately someone beats them to it.
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And guards it from marauders.
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Momma Chuck likes the grain as well…
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But isn’t sure what to make of its protector.
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She inched closer.
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But finally gave up and stuck to her own buffet.
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😊
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Momma chuck is a good mother and protective of her brood.
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I’ve seen her chase off a fox, a deer and a turkey.
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Every evening the littles gather to nibble under the bird feeders.
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And momma is right there keeping a close watch on the surrounding area.
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Mess with momma at your peril.
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You have been warned.
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😳
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The baby chucks are growing and feeling their oats.
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Feeding time at the backyard buffet sees it’s fair share of squabbles these days.
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Carrots and apples are clearly worth fighting for.
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The little devils may wreak havoc in my flower beds… but I have to admit they’re fun to watch.
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Case in point…. the husband keeps his old garden cart in our woodshed.
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And the other day when I was out back weeding, I heard noises coming from that direction.
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Chucks.
They’re everywhere.
P. S. … did you notice my fabulous astilbe, aka false goat’s beard?
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It doesn’t look like a goat, but it sure loved all those dark rainy days.
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Just a few glimpses into our backyard.
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Baby chucks are nibbling at an extremely rapid rate. But I’ve discovered they like broccoli stalks so I’m hoping I can keep their teeth busy for a while.
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We had a cool and wet June so the Baltimore Orioles who usually take off for colder, more northern parts when it starts to heat up are still here.
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And they’re devouring the oranges and grape jelly faster than I can replace them.
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The young males fight and squabble over the best position… but they sure are pretty.
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Cow!
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I love that I can say this every time I step outside instead of having to wait for a road trip.
My husband informs me that my nomenclature is incorrect as this is technically a young bull. But squealing bull! doesn’t have the same resonance… so I am compromising with Mister Cow!
This earns an eye roll and a head shake which somehow makes it even more perfect.
😈
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Here’s a giant field of lupine situated in an odd place.
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Next to the local dump. Trash never looked so good…
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As I was cleaning the bird bath the other day I spied momma chuck.
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She’s made under the Barn Mahal her home for the last few years, so needless to say she feels comfortable there.
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She also seems to enjoy the porch.
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Whether it’s taking a bath on the steps…
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Or chilling on the deck.
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I’d say comfortable is definitely the right word.
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River's world..... 