Week 19. First of the house wrens fledged and what a ruckus the barn swallows made about this, as their brood fledged at the same time. Barn swallows would not let the wrens in to feed their young while the barn swallow birds were trying to fly.
Also, big problem with sparrows attempting to raid the nest of the wren. Finally had to shoot one of the sparrows.
Big event just about at darkness. Mother gray fox and two pups were foraging on the wild pile in the back yard (wild pile is the name for the big pile of rock and cactus that was left from the septic system work--we decided to keep it for safe haven). Well the fox was searching for something, and we believe one or more of the young wrens were in the pile and making some noise, because the fox was certainly looking for something, with its ears erect. Anyway, they left for parts unknown.
Three inches of rain this week, really needed it. Grass in the background of the photo shows its in fair shape. Its all spring or winter grass.
Week 20. Easy week, with the rain of last week. Watering not needed and deer have plenty to eat. Deer sightings have really dropped off now that I am not feeding them.
Quail are still around and calling.
Week 21. Four deer, one fawn. First fawn sighting of the spring.
Week 22. Same four deer, one fawn. Fawn production seems to be down from what it was, say, 5 years ago. Hunting pressure has been increased over this time on adjacent properties.
Another good spell of rain. Water in good shape, at least for the next few weeks.
Our one per year cottontail rabbit is still around. Interesting in that we only see cottontails here, but half mile away, there are jackrabbits and no cottontails.
Summary Comment: All wildlife appears normal,with enough water from rain and food from good spring growth.
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