Temperatures in the 60s (F) have been pleasant, but the past month has brought five days of rain and snow when this level was reached, with temperatures dropping to the 30s (F). We had to keep our big black and white Dutch buck outside.
Stepping out the door a day last week, I noticed a bird with the upright posture of a hawk. He or she, appeared to be eyeing the large black and white Dutch rabbit. Seems to me its white stripe down the midsection made it appear as two rabbits, prey sized for this hawk. The rabbit knew he was getting a stare. As I stared at the hawk, it took flight silently. Later the Dutch Buck, LeBron, was taken indoors.
Now while Spring may have sprung, I am used to seeing many squirrels hop past my window, usually black colouring in the majority. Funny this year the ratio dropped from favouring black over grey 6::1. This year something has changed. Gray now leads black, 2::1
Maybe hawks find it easier to identify the higher contrasting prey. Maybe.
Ah yes Spring, thoughts of growing things, and this year I have a garden of my own; no one to split the work or rewards with. Last year, in both our gardens we had raised beds. This year we each get one bed, 4 feet by 2 feet, 18” deep. Right now the media is barnyard horse manure. Given last years experience, I look forward to rearranging that, and replacing at least 50% of the manure with a lighter soil, loamy or like compost.
A friend who is an award-winning gardener in our community expressed a bit of disappointment in my choice of plantings, all vegetable, and no flowers. The squirrels raised hades with the sunflowers and now, in light of their recent reduction and decimation, I may take heart and try and raise some.
I hope this spring gives you hope as it has me. DG
Denaliguide Summit 
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