1-8-09 Observations

- Cloudy and cool early this morning, with a few snow showers, but the afternoon has been quite pleasant, temperatures in the 40s with brilliant sunshine and a refreshing breeze.

- Rain...we have had an abundance of rain recently (3-4" in the last 36 hours) and the creeks, lakes and ponds within our developments are at capacity. At our elevation, about 2,200' above sea level, we have no concern of flooding.

- I have spotted several deer recently. They are often quite difficult to see this time of year...especially against the brown leaves of a forest floor.

- Also, I have seen several raptors as of late....On a hike today, I saw three Red-Tailed Hawks and a Sparrow Hawk.

- Deer stories abound this time of year, and though I haven't hunted Odocoileus in decades, I am always intrigued by the stories. Many times I require photo evidence of the tale being recounted. We found a large buck recently, apparently badly wounded in a fight with another male deer. The animal was in such bad shape, we had to put the animal out of its misery.

At one time, it must have been an impressive stag, but at the time is was found, it was in a weakened and somewhat emaciated state. I would love to have seen the opponent.

- I have had reports of several Bald Eagle sightings near our properties recently. I hope for a photo soon.

- The attached photos of the mountains were taken on a woodland hike this morning. Each is worthy of many words.

- Also attached is a photo taken today of Canada Geese behind The Lodge on Lake George. They seem to be enjoying a lull in the action, as many of the birds had their head beneath a wing, snoozing in the sun. Like the Common Crow that abounds in our area, the geese seem to always post a lookout.