On a few small acres in the hill country of central Texas, we live by watching, feeling, and waiting. Together, we come to know by loving and love best when we care enough to understand. Our Loves: limestone, leaf-vein, scales, feathers, friends, and all their shifting reflections in the waters of a small Creek.
We got out of the house too late this morning to see the beavers, but as we were walking down the Narrow Trail up to the Pond, we were able to enjoy this brace of wood ducks from a big distance. Only after looking at the telescopic views of the ducks were we able to identify them.
The watercolor reflections were fine enough to make the picture. Wood ducks didn't ruin it too much, though.
Here's what we've been hearing many of the early mornings and evenings. If I am wrong in calling this an Eastern Screech-Owl (Otus asio), just let me know. I've learned that the bird has plenty of calls (barking, screeching, tremolo, whinny--depending on its location, sex, threat level, nesting status, etc.). This individual appeared to have been in the large oak tree.
