We are continuing to produce a monthly nature newsletter for the community in which we live. The purpose of the newsletter is to make everyone (including ourselves) aware of the importance of nature in our surrounding area. This takes on the form of identifying plants and animals that are a bit unusual. We plan to drift into historical stuff because history and our respect for it is important.
Rain is adequate but not great.
All is quiet
$14 of diesel fuel bought this month for tractor work around the place
Hauled two loads of brush to the main brush pile
As usual, kitchen scraps of vegetables to the deer yard.
Thursday, March 7, 2019
Thursday, February 21, 2019
January 2019 Activity
We collected about 30 bur oak acorns and planted them in tall grass in inconspicuous areas so if they do sprout next spring, they might have a chance to avoid the deer.
An early morning roadside hunter wounded a large buck which the died in a neighbors yard. Illegal in several ways.
Doing well on rainfall, but the grass seed production can be forgotten for this last calendar year.
Flocks of robins and cedar waxwings have moved through the area.
Kestrals are back on the telephone wires.
We are intrigued (again) with the prospect of getting Texas Madrone to grow here as it did on our property in Bandera County---more on that later.
An early morning roadside hunter wounded a large buck which the died in a neighbors yard. Illegal in several ways.
Doing well on rainfall, but the grass seed production can be forgotten for this last calendar year.
Flocks of robins and cedar waxwings have moved through the area.
Kestrals are back on the telephone wires.
We are intrigued (again) with the prospect of getting Texas Madrone to grow here as it did on our property in Bandera County---more on that later.
December 2018 Activity
The big event this month was the Christmas Bird Count. The bird count was conducted on nine different properties, each property being about the same size of 20 acres. In total, 54 species were observed and 1869 individuals counted. This property showed more species and more individuals than any of the other eight. Would like to think that this is a reflection on the preservation of the natural elements of the site. Leave a note or send an email if a detailed listing is needed.
Several does have been spotted, but no bucks---maybe they sawed off their horns.
Two loads of brush to the brush pile.
Several does have been spotted, but no bucks---maybe they sawed off their horns.
Two loads of brush to the brush pile.
November 2018 Activity
Deer hunting season is upon us. There seems to be a lot of hunting activity. The deer herd is getting pretty large---as many as 9 does and 3 bucks have been observed on many occasions.
Otherwise, all seems quiet, especially with the recent hard freeze.
Otherwise, all seems quiet, especially with the recent hard freeze.
October 2018 Activity
The weather has been very erratic this year and it seems to have affected the grass seed production. Over the last month, we have collected only a dozen handfuls of seed for reseeding in the areas where the particular variety of grass is scarce.
We are reconsidering the value of mowing. recalling that we once mowed several times per year, then once per year in order to maximize seed production, now we are considering not mowing at all unless weed production gets an upper hand on the grass growth. So, thus far in 2018 we have not mowed. First notable observation is that the birds have benefitted during the cold weather. Walking through the grass, many small birds are flushed.
At least 100 red oak acorns were planted this month. Expectations are low for their growth, but lets see what happens. Also planted an equal number of live oak acorns, they should do better as this is demonstrated live oak country.
We are developing our approach to controlling the many small prickly pear cactus that are sprouting up in many places.
The deer get no food as there is plenty for them to eat given the rains of last month.
Two loads of brush to the brush pile.
We are reconsidering the value of mowing. recalling that we once mowed several times per year, then once per year in order to maximize seed production, now we are considering not mowing at all unless weed production gets an upper hand on the grass growth. So, thus far in 2018 we have not mowed. First notable observation is that the birds have benefitted during the cold weather. Walking through the grass, many small birds are flushed.
At least 100 red oak acorns were planted this month. Expectations are low for their growth, but lets see what happens. Also planted an equal number of live oak acorns, they should do better as this is demonstrated live oak country.
We are developing our approach to controlling the many small prickly pear cactus that are sprouting up in many places.
The deer get no food as there is plenty for them to eat given the rains of last month.
Two loads of brush to the brush pile.
Thursday, October 4, 2018
September 2018 Activity
Weeks 36, 37, 38, 39
Rain, finally go some rain. In fact, over a two week period, received more than 10 inches. It was a perfect rain in that all of it soaked in as evidenced by no runoff whatsoever.
Cut way back on deer supplemental food and water.
No sign of the bucks recently.
The bird population has shifted. It will be interesting to make see how the October census looks compared to the one in the spring.
We have cut way back on mowing, mainly because of the drought, but some new thoughts are emerging on mowing at all. But we still need to get at the prickly pear which seems to be spreading. Maybe when it gets to be cooler weather we can do some experiments on selective eradication. Selective as some of the wildlife need the prickly pear for hiding and for the fruit.
The rain rescued the mustang grape crop, and puffed up the grapes to the point where now the animals might find them as food.
Rain, finally go some rain. In fact, over a two week period, received more than 10 inches. It was a perfect rain in that all of it soaked in as evidenced by no runoff whatsoever.
Cut way back on deer supplemental food and water.
No sign of the bucks recently.
The bird population has shifted. It will be interesting to make see how the October census looks compared to the one in the spring.
We have cut way back on mowing, mainly because of the drought, but some new thoughts are emerging on mowing at all. But we still need to get at the prickly pear which seems to be spreading. Maybe when it gets to be cooler weather we can do some experiments on selective eradication. Selective as some of the wildlife need the prickly pear for hiding and for the fruit.
The rain rescued the mustang grape crop, and puffed up the grapes to the point where now the animals might find them as food.
Thursday, September 13, 2018
August 2018 Activity
Weeks 31, 32, 33, 34, 35
Drought continues.
Two buck deer often show up in the south field. Good racks on both of them. Every once in a while they spar with their horns.
Grass still not showing any seeds. This is important as we try to collect and redistribute native grasses seed every year, but so far have found nothing.
Watering and feeding deer. We have not seen any more axis deer. Rancher about two miles to the west said he has seen them on numerous occasions over the last two years. I think most ranchers are probably harvesting them as they find them. That's good.
Bought 20 pound sack of black oil sunflower seed.
Using milled cottonseed as a food, but so far it seems to be too difficult for animals to eat without making it into a mush.
Watering the oak (for acorn production in the future) trees planted in recent years to get them started successfully.
Drought continues.
Two buck deer often show up in the south field. Good racks on both of them. Every once in a while they spar with their horns.
Grass still not showing any seeds. This is important as we try to collect and redistribute native grasses seed every year, but so far have found nothing.
Watering and feeding deer. We have not seen any more axis deer. Rancher about two miles to the west said he has seen them on numerous occasions over the last two years. I think most ranchers are probably harvesting them as they find them. That's good.
Bought 20 pound sack of black oil sunflower seed.
Using milled cottonseed as a food, but so far it seems to be too difficult for animals to eat without making it into a mush.
Watering the oak (for acorn production in the future) trees planted in recent years to get them started successfully.
Thursday, August 30, 2018
July 2018 Activity
Weeks 27, 28, 29, 30
The ground is getting very dry and the grass, especially has shown no tendency to make seed.
The deer are watered daily and they seem to be getting more desperate as they come to the front of the house and drink from the birdbath. The two birdbaths need refilling on a daily basis.
Hauled two loads to the brushpile. In spite of building this brushpile, it slumps a lot in between dumpings. That's normal, I guess, but the whole idea of the brushpile was to keep it open underneath for small animals. Perhaps I need to start putting some bigger diameter stuff in it to support the top better.
No sightings of much this month, all seems rather quiet.
Yes, have been putting out kitchen vegetable trimmings for the deer.
The ground is getting very dry and the grass, especially has shown no tendency to make seed.
The deer are watered daily and they seem to be getting more desperate as they come to the front of the house and drink from the birdbath. The two birdbaths need refilling on a daily basis.
Hauled two loads to the brushpile. In spite of building this brushpile, it slumps a lot in between dumpings. That's normal, I guess, but the whole idea of the brushpile was to keep it open underneath for small animals. Perhaps I need to start putting some bigger diameter stuff in it to support the top better.
No sightings of much this month, all seems rather quiet.
Yes, have been putting out kitchen vegetable trimmings for the deer.
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
June 2018 Activity
Weeks 23, 24, 25, 26
Special note: First ever axis deer spotted this month. Hope these critters are not moving in to the area.
Mid Year inventory of birds observed here:
Special note: First ever axis deer spotted this month. Hope these critters are not moving in to the area.
Mid Year inventory of birds observed here:
- chickadee
- titmouse
- lesser goldfinch
- mocking bird
- phoebe
- towhee
- purple finch
- bluebird
- caracara
- turkey vulture
- cardinal
- painted bunting
- summer tanager
- Carolina wren
- bewicks wren
- house sparrow
- humming bird
- barn owl
- bobwhite quail
- Poor will
- rio grande turkey
- raven
- crow
- roadrunner
- cuckoo
- white wing dove
- inca dove
- mourning dove
- scissor tailed flycatcher
- barn swallow
- purple martin
- red tailed hawk
- kildeer
Monday, June 18, 2018
May 2018 Activity
Weeks 18,19,20, 21, 22
Bluebirds are raising a batch of birds. Important now to see that they have water, because the rain has been really short so far.
Water in the feeder tanks disappears each night, so we are getting a lot of visitors at night at the troughs.
See only 2 to 3 deer on occasions. No fawns observed yet. (early part of May).
Painted buntings have arrived. One pair has always nested in the area for the past 8 years.
There must be a fawn nesting somewhere close by as a doe keeps moseying around the area to the north in the middle of the day.
No mowing, in fact if we don't get some rain, there may be any mowing soon.
Watering new oak trees on regular occasions as we need the acorn production in future years.
Bluebirds are raising a batch of birds. Important now to see that they have water, because the rain has been really short so far.
Water in the feeder tanks disappears each night, so we are getting a lot of visitors at night at the troughs.
See only 2 to 3 deer on occasions. No fawns observed yet. (early part of May).
Painted buntings have arrived. One pair has always nested in the area for the past 8 years.
There must be a fawn nesting somewhere close by as a doe keeps moseying around the area to the north in the middle of the day.
No mowing, in fact if we don't get some rain, there may be any mowing soon.
Watering new oak trees on regular occasions as we need the acorn production in future years.
April 2018 Activity
Weeks 14,15,16,17 of 2018
Holding off from mowing the greater portion of the grassland. The winter grass is doing well, but I need to see some progress of the warmer season grasses before I mow. We always need the seed and so it has to develop and mature.
Two more loads of brush to the pile nearer the road. This is a small pile located in the brushy area and may not offer good refuge as the larger pile to the west. Will have to evaluate it to see if it is worth continuing to build it.
Since the 2 inches of rain in March, we have had no other rain to amount to any good. Soil is looking dry and the grass is not developing.
Quail have arrived.
Bluebirds are staying, purple martins never show up. Barn swallows make many passes in the area, but the phoebes drive them off. Next to the mocking bird, these small birds are quite domineering.
Not much show from the 4 footed creatures such as skunk, raccoon and possum.
Holding off from mowing the greater portion of the grassland. The winter grass is doing well, but I need to see some progress of the warmer season grasses before I mow. We always need the seed and so it has to develop and mature.
Two more loads of brush to the pile nearer the road. This is a small pile located in the brushy area and may not offer good refuge as the larger pile to the west. Will have to evaluate it to see if it is worth continuing to build it.
Since the 2 inches of rain in March, we have had no other rain to amount to any good. Soil is looking dry and the grass is not developing.
Quail have arrived.
Bluebirds are staying, purple martins never show up. Barn swallows make many passes in the area, but the phoebes drive them off. Next to the mocking bird, these small birds are quite domineering.
Not much show from the 4 footed creatures such as skunk, raccoon and possum.
March 2018 Activity
I have modified the format so that there is posting of activity for the whole month, as it has seemed that there was not enough activity to make it worthwhile for a weekly posting.
Weeks 10,11,12,13 in March 2018
Seven large cactus plants pulled out and stacked on the brush pile. All these were taken out of the area to the west of the gully where the grass has more trouble than it does to the east side of the gully.
This area was really "beat up" when we first excluded the cattle from the area. The grass was so poor that the first Ag appraiser thought maybe that there was only rock on this hillside, that is, the soil was so thin that it would not support grass. Now, 5 years later, the grass is making a good comeback and looks pretty good. That's the reason for a bit more care to remove some of the cactus.
It is important to not remove all the cactus however, because these established stands of cactus provide good cover, especially for birds in the winter.
No quail sounds yet
All the kitchen vegetable scraps are going to the deer for feed, cutting back on the sweet feed.
Looks as if the bluebirds will nest in the box. THIS IS A FIRST FOR THIS SITE. It would be interesting to know why they nested here, in this new box, and never nested in any of the boxes in the past 7 years.
Nothing in the purple martin house yet. It would appear that purple martins do not find enough bugs in the area to make this there home.
Lots of bees on the rosemary bushes.
Had two inches of rain---needed it.
Thursday, February 22, 2018
February 2018 Activity
Weeks 6,7,8,9
Purchased a 40 lb bag of sunflower seed and a 50 lb bag of sweet feed. I am using sweet feed instead of corn since the hunters fill the deer up with corn, which is attractive to deer but not very nourishing.
Finished cleaning out the vegetable garden, moving all the compostable material to the compost pile. Whenever I add material to the compost pile, the animals (whoever they may be) pull it apart looking for anything good to eat.
The rufous sided towhee was back again. It appears that the name rufous sided towhee is out of date with the bird folks. Its now the eastern towhee or the spotted towhee. If the bird shows up again, we will try to make a specific species identification.
Cleaned out the purple martin house. Not sure why I keep attending to this because we have not seen a purple martin here in years.
Cold and dreary weather.
Bluebirds are investigating the nest box.
No quail sounds yet, seems as if they are late.
Rain is in short supply. The area has had rain, but spotty, so it misses us here.
Two front end loader stacks of brush to the brush pile.
Purchased a 40 lb bag of sunflower seed and a 50 lb bag of sweet feed. I am using sweet feed instead of corn since the hunters fill the deer up with corn, which is attractive to deer but not very nourishing.
Finished cleaning out the vegetable garden, moving all the compostable material to the compost pile. Whenever I add material to the compost pile, the animals (whoever they may be) pull it apart looking for anything good to eat.
The rufous sided towhee was back again. It appears that the name rufous sided towhee is out of date with the bird folks. Its now the eastern towhee or the spotted towhee. If the bird shows up again, we will try to make a specific species identification.
Cleaned out the purple martin house. Not sure why I keep attending to this because we have not seen a purple martin here in years.
Cold and dreary weather.
Bluebirds are investigating the nest box.
No quail sounds yet, seems as if they are late.
Rain is in short supply. The area has had rain, but spotty, so it misses us here.
Two front end loader stacks of brush to the brush pile.
January 2018 Activity
Week 1
Cold and dreary weather, seems to be keeping wildlife quiet
Spotted the band of turkeys that are known to rove the area.
Songbirds for the winter time seem to be the usual ones. Cardinals, an occasional wren, phoebe, titmouse, chickadee, some sparrows.
Vegetable scraps are eaten everytime and completely whenever we put them out. This is a dilemma for us, as we would prefer provide supplemental food for only those conditions when natural food is scarce. On the other hand, we need to keep kitchen waste out of the landfill. If we compost the vegetable scraps, the animals raid the compost pile so the end result is the same: the animals get the scraps.
Week 2
Deer season is coming to a close. Has not had any effect on the doe population, but we don't see the two bucks anymore. With the range of deer, if these bucks were killed on the neighboring ranch or on this one, its hard to tell, without conducting a query. Cold and damp, but ground still dry. Deer seem to need the food as they are grazing on the green grass next to the house.
Week 3
Hogs, raccoons, and skunks seem to be a minimal visitor in the last six months.. In fact the hogs have not made any appearance in the past six months.
Saw a rufous sided towhee scratching around in the grass. Both a male and a female were observed.
Heard the redtailed hawk again.
Week 4
Three loads of brush to the main brushpile. Considering building a new brushpile in another location.
Keeping the main water trough filled with water as the next nearest water is about half mile distant.
The cat spotted a small gray fox creeping through the high grass. She is a good observer. Glad to see a gray fox even though they seem to be hated by some and treasured by others.
Spotted 5 turkeys crossing the roadway. Their flocks seem to be smaller in size than usual, maybe they are getting to the mating season when they are loners.
Week 5
No activity this week.
Cold and dreary weather, seems to be keeping wildlife quiet
Spotted the band of turkeys that are known to rove the area.
Songbirds for the winter time seem to be the usual ones. Cardinals, an occasional wren, phoebe, titmouse, chickadee, some sparrows.
Vegetable scraps are eaten everytime and completely whenever we put them out. This is a dilemma for us, as we would prefer provide supplemental food for only those conditions when natural food is scarce. On the other hand, we need to keep kitchen waste out of the landfill. If we compost the vegetable scraps, the animals raid the compost pile so the end result is the same: the animals get the scraps.
Week 2
Deer season is coming to a close. Has not had any effect on the doe population, but we don't see the two bucks anymore. With the range of deer, if these bucks were killed on the neighboring ranch or on this one, its hard to tell, without conducting a query. Cold and damp, but ground still dry. Deer seem to need the food as they are grazing on the green grass next to the house.
Week 3
Hogs, raccoons, and skunks seem to be a minimal visitor in the last six months.. In fact the hogs have not made any appearance in the past six months.
Saw a rufous sided towhee scratching around in the grass. Both a male and a female were observed.
Heard the redtailed hawk again.
Week 4
Three loads of brush to the main brushpile. Considering building a new brushpile in another location.
Keeping the main water trough filled with water as the next nearest water is about half mile distant.
The cat spotted a small gray fox creeping through the high grass. She is a good observer. Glad to see a gray fox even though they seem to be hated by some and treasured by others.
Spotted 5 turkeys crossing the roadway. Their flocks seem to be smaller in size than usual, maybe they are getting to the mating season when they are loners.
Week 5
No activity this week.
Wednesday, February 21, 2018
December 2017 Activity
Week 49
Hauled two loads of brush to the brushpile, keeping it low and full of voids for a good habitat for small animals.
Still putting out kitchen vegetable scraps for whomever comes to the dinner table. Not sure if more than the deer show up, but good feed for rabbits as well.
Water maintained in the big tub to the west. Keeps the deer from watering at the bird feeder in front.
Week 50
Still spotting the 4 or 5 does, but the bucks we had seen earlier are not evident.
Adding sweet feed to the kitchen scraps as animal feed.
Keeping the bird feeder full of sunflower seeds.
Spotty rain but the soil is dry.
We have chosen to hold off mowing until spring gets closer as the wildlife, all kinds, seem to make use of the deep old grass.
Week 51
Observed a small group of turkeys this week. No owls, no mice. We always seem to have one rabbit, but never two, wonder what keeps them going when there must be a number of predators for small animals like rabbits.
It has been more than a year since we have had hog damage. I know the neighboring ranch conducts night hunts for hogs, so maybe this has had an effect on our experience.
Bought 50 lbs of sunflower seeds.
Week 52
There is some evidence that there is a redtailed hawk in the area, from the sound of its call.
Kinda quiet week so far.
Hauled two loads of brush to the brushpile, keeping it low and full of voids for a good habitat for small animals.
Still putting out kitchen vegetable scraps for whomever comes to the dinner table. Not sure if more than the deer show up, but good feed for rabbits as well.
Water maintained in the big tub to the west. Keeps the deer from watering at the bird feeder in front.
Week 50
Still spotting the 4 or 5 does, but the bucks we had seen earlier are not evident.
Adding sweet feed to the kitchen scraps as animal feed.
Keeping the bird feeder full of sunflower seeds.
Spotty rain but the soil is dry.
We have chosen to hold off mowing until spring gets closer as the wildlife, all kinds, seem to make use of the deep old grass.
Week 51
Observed a small group of turkeys this week. No owls, no mice. We always seem to have one rabbit, but never two, wonder what keeps them going when there must be a number of predators for small animals like rabbits.
It has been more than a year since we have had hog damage. I know the neighboring ranch conducts night hunts for hogs, so maybe this has had an effect on our experience.
Bought 50 lbs of sunflower seeds.
Week 52
There is some evidence that there is a redtailed hawk in the area, from the sound of its call.
Kinda quiet week so far.
Tuesday, February 20, 2018
November 2017 Activity
Week 45, 46,47,48
It appears I lost the November 2017 log made earlier, so this will have to be a gap in the log.
But, I do recall this. This is now getting on to hunting season and it appears that there is less hunting activity planned in these 1600 acres than in the past years. Several of the more avid hunters have left and non hunters seems to have replaced them. None the less, there are two big bucks that show up on occasions.
It appears I lost the November 2017 log made earlier, so this will have to be a gap in the log.
But, I do recall this. This is now getting on to hunting season and it appears that there is less hunting activity planned in these 1600 acres than in the past years. Several of the more avid hunters have left and non hunters seems to have replaced them. None the less, there are two big bucks that show up on occasions.
Sunday, October 29, 2017
October 2017 Activity
Week 40
Lot of coyote howls these last few nights. As long as the cattle people don't seem to loose any calves, its good to have a few coyotes around to get rid of the feral cats. The one feral cat we have seen in the past is not around anymore.
Our in-the-house cat seems to continue to have visitors at late night hours. They must look at each other through the glass at the front entrance.
Cleared out a number of large prickly pear cacti this week. I think they are growing faster than I am cutting them. All the refuse went to the brushpile.
Replaced two blue bird houses that have become worn out.
Week 41
Started a new brushpile this week. Same general location, but 100 yards apart.
Bought 6 gallons of diesel fuel.
Kestrels have returned, not sure to reside or to pass through.
Week 42
The feral hog activity has been very low the last few months. Someone must be hunting them.
Bit of rain, that's good
Week 43
Three loads of brush to the second brushpile. Working my way through three more big cacti.
Five deer in the south boundary working their way to the west. I think they circle around and end up at the watering trough on the west side. The water stays cleaner in that trough because the coons do not seem to mess with it.
Saw a whole flock of quail, perhaps 15 in the bunch. They were in the tall grass and I flushed them. Shows the value of tall grass---they seem to like it for cover.
Week 44
Forecast of rain, but no rain. The weather did turn colder, in fact, it was the first frost we have had this fall.
Kicked up two quail, so they are still around. Not certain if they stay all year.
Lot of coyote howls these last few nights. As long as the cattle people don't seem to loose any calves, its good to have a few coyotes around to get rid of the feral cats. The one feral cat we have seen in the past is not around anymore.
Our in-the-house cat seems to continue to have visitors at late night hours. They must look at each other through the glass at the front entrance.
Cleared out a number of large prickly pear cacti this week. I think they are growing faster than I am cutting them. All the refuse went to the brushpile.
Replaced two blue bird houses that have become worn out.
Week 41
Started a new brushpile this week. Same general location, but 100 yards apart.
Bought 6 gallons of diesel fuel.
Kestrels have returned, not sure to reside or to pass through.
Week 42
The feral hog activity has been very low the last few months. Someone must be hunting them.
Bit of rain, that's good
Week 43
Three loads of brush to the second brushpile. Working my way through three more big cacti.
Five deer in the south boundary working their way to the west. I think they circle around and end up at the watering trough on the west side. The water stays cleaner in that trough because the coons do not seem to mess with it.
Saw a whole flock of quail, perhaps 15 in the bunch. They were in the tall grass and I flushed them. Shows the value of tall grass---they seem to like it for cover.
Week 44
Forecast of rain, but no rain. The weather did turn colder, in fact, it was the first frost we have had this fall.
Kicked up two quail, so they are still around. Not certain if they stay all year.
September 2017 Activity
Week 36
Birds are apparently migrating as the usual crowd of songbirds have moved out and new migratory species are appearing at the water and feeder.
The deer herd is maintained at about 5, all does except an occasional buck. One fawn is among the group. The few number of fawns always amaze me as my experience at other locations would say that with five does, I should see at least 2 fawns
Still hearing the bobwhite, but far fewer calls.
I do not observe the gray fox anymore, so looks like mine has been done in.
Week 37
As reported earlier, have not seen any owls this year and only one redtailed hawk.
The raccoons are getting to be somewhat of a pest lately, they have discovered the sunflower seed in the feeder and realize that I have turned off the electric fence charger that was attached to the metal feeder.
We have been providing the deer and other small animals with water and kitchen vegetable scraps every other day. The vegetable scraps are a big attraction. Never once have the scraps been put out and not eaten by morning.
Week 38
It would be interesting if the same deer show up each day, or are the ones that show up randomly different. No way to tell. The well antlered buck was visiting this week.
The mouse population is near zero, in spite of loose sunflower seeds scattered around. Also, have not seen any rattle snakes this year--that's not all bad.
Got some rain to ease the dry soil.
Week 39
Hauled three front end loader loads to the main brushpile. I am trying to get this brushpile built so that it has plenty of room inside it for habitat--not been too successful yet as the weight of the pile keeps compressing it.
Bought more sunflower seed.
I have refrained from buying deer corn as it is basically poor nutrition, only an attractant useful to hunters.
Birds are apparently migrating as the usual crowd of songbirds have moved out and new migratory species are appearing at the water and feeder.
The deer herd is maintained at about 5, all does except an occasional buck. One fawn is among the group. The few number of fawns always amaze me as my experience at other locations would say that with five does, I should see at least 2 fawns
Still hearing the bobwhite, but far fewer calls.
I do not observe the gray fox anymore, so looks like mine has been done in.
Week 37
As reported earlier, have not seen any owls this year and only one redtailed hawk.
The raccoons are getting to be somewhat of a pest lately, they have discovered the sunflower seed in the feeder and realize that I have turned off the electric fence charger that was attached to the metal feeder.
We have been providing the deer and other small animals with water and kitchen vegetable scraps every other day. The vegetable scraps are a big attraction. Never once have the scraps been put out and not eaten by morning.
Week 38
It would be interesting if the same deer show up each day, or are the ones that show up randomly different. No way to tell. The well antlered buck was visiting this week.
The mouse population is near zero, in spite of loose sunflower seeds scattered around. Also, have not seen any rattle snakes this year--that's not all bad.
Got some rain to ease the dry soil.
Week 39
Hauled three front end loader loads to the main brushpile. I am trying to get this brushpile built so that it has plenty of room inside it for habitat--not been too successful yet as the weight of the pile keeps compressing it.
Bought more sunflower seed.
I have refrained from buying deer corn as it is basically poor nutrition, only an attractant useful to hunters.
Saturday, September 2, 2017
August 2017 Activity
Week 32
RAIN, we got rain, two whole inches. This was the first measureable rain at this location since April 15th. There is no other news this week. The animals and grasses are responding.
Week 33
Seven deer in the back yard, two were fawns. On the road at the front there was one fawn that was apparently just born as it was really small and wobbly on its feet.
Half bucket of vegetable scraps in the deer yard.
One cottontail rabbit.
Haven't seen the fox lately. Bird feeder is filled every other day. The coons seem to be leaving it alone this year for some reason.
Two loads of brush to the main brushpile
Week 33
Re organized the animal watering system to provide water in two spots. Moved the main trough from back by the water tank out in the open to prevent the cedars from dropping all the needles into the water--keeps it more clean this way. Converted a scap shopvac bucket into a water trough for a spot downhill, yet within reach of the hose.
Quail are still calling, in fact, flushed a covey of about 12 from the grass on the way to the mailbox.
Fox is not appearing lately
Week 34
Half bucket of vegetable scraps to the deer yard.
Birds are starting to disappear--this usually occurs this time of the year. The cardinals, being the most prevalent seem to go somewhere for about a month, then come back in the later fall.
Four deer in the back, this time one fawn
Quail are still calling, but the fox is nowhere around.
Week 35
Major disappointment. Heard that my neighbor dispatched a fox. Probably was my fox as it has not made its appearance lately. Recognized that these are predators, but they are a beautiful animal and we would have lost a valuable species if they were to be exterminated.
Saturday, July 15, 2017
July 2017 Activity
Week 27
Rain, we need rain badly. The drought monitor shows that Hays County is uniquely dry. The birds and four footed animals are getting desperate. The water in two bird baths disappears each night, and must refill the water bin on the west side every 4 or 5 days.
Kicked up a covey of half grown bobwhite quail from the tall grass to the east side toward the road. Maybe a dozen in the group.
Kitchen scraps to the deer yard farthest from the house to keep them away from the house and wild, but it seems to have no effect on their chewing on plants up near the house.
Game camera shows that we have one raccoon that visits the water source in the bird bath each night.
What a sight!, at about 6pm a grown gray fox came up to the bird bath and had a long drink of water.
Week 28
Buck in the back field this evening. Huge head of antlers, maybe a 12 pointer--no moss on the antlers.
Some animal had been popping the covers off the front drains. Set out the game camera and found that it was the raccoon. Not sure what he was looking for.
Bought 40 pound sack of black oil sunflower seeds and six gallons of diesel fuel.
Still holding off on mowing. Have not had any rain for a month and if we go back to the last rain of any amount, it was 10 weeks ago.
Scarcity of snakes this year- not sure why.
Absolutely no evidence of mice in the fields again this year. Have not seen their predator the owl, either.
Bobwhite are still calling.
Week 29
Not much changing re observations of wildlife. Really dry and providing water for all types of wildlife is the whole activity
Added two loads of brush to the main brushpile
Gray fox visited again, was standing on the rim of the bird bath for a drink of water.
Week 30
Same routine, all focused on water and scraps of vegetables. Flowers are about all dried up, so bought a humming bird feeder to provide food and water for the three birds we have here
Week 31
No rain, so the routine is unchanged. I am guessing that we are providing water for possums, skunks, raccoons, all kinds of birds, deer, fox and whatever else shows up from the smell of water in the tank, pails, poultry waterer and birdbaths. It appears more dry here on this very location than it was during the drought of a few years ago.
Four deer in the back, one was a fawn.
Week 29
Not much changing re observations of wildlife. Really dry and providing water for all types of wildlife is the whole activity
Added two loads of brush to the main brushpile
Gray fox visited again, was standing on the rim of the bird bath for a drink of water.
Week 30
Same routine, all focused on water and scraps of vegetables. Flowers are about all dried up, so bought a humming bird feeder to provide food and water for the three birds we have here
Week 31
No rain, so the routine is unchanged. I am guessing that we are providing water for possums, skunks, raccoons, all kinds of birds, deer, fox and whatever else shows up from the smell of water in the tank, pails, poultry waterer and birdbaths. It appears more dry here on this very location than it was during the drought of a few years ago.
Four deer in the back, one was a fawn.
June 2017 Activity
Week 23
Beginning to get dry again, Bobwhite quail still singing and several hen turkeys seen wandering through the back. Must have a nest somewhere near.
Holding off on mowing to keep some cover.
Hauled two more loads of brush to the main brushpile in the back west area.
Week 24
Beginning to get dry again, Bobwhite quail still singing and several hen turkeys seen wandering through the back. Must have a nest somewhere near.
Holding off on mowing to keep some cover.
Hauled two more loads of brush to the main brushpile in the back west area.
Week 24
Deer (maybe just one) are a major problem with the vegetable and flower garden. Building a fence to keep them out.
Also, have a feral cat that shows up on occasions, perhaps once per week.
Week 25
Added about 30 gallons of water to the west end water bin for deer and others. Have not seen the hen turkeys for a few days, perhaps the chicks have hatched.
Put out the chicken watering can (galvanized bucket that self fills the water trough) on the east side to help the quail.
Have not seen any deer, but evidence of their being in the garden at night shows up.
Week 26
Built the fence to 8 feet high and closed all the crawl through places that may have been letting in the deer.
Adding vegetable scraps in the far deer yard. Scraps are eaten every night.
Have not seen any evidence of hogs in the last 3 or 4 months. Perhaps it is too dry in this particular place right now.
Hauled one load of brush to the brush pile
No evidence of nests in the purple martin house, so that now comes down for the winter.
Barn swallows show up, but is too dry for them to find mud to build nests, so they leave.
Sunday, May 21, 2017
May 2017 Activity
Week 18
Still some evidence of deer in the garden. Not sure where they can get in, but plugging all the holes, no matter how small.
Starting to work on the cactus problem on the west side.
No deer in the feedlot during daylight hours.
First sighting of the painted bunting, but I think they arrived earlier because we could hear them, but not spot them. They, especially, like the water provided.
The purple martin population here, again, is zero. Wonder why. At one time, we were going to build a fake chimney for chimney swifts, but cancelled that project for the reason of not seeing any martins.
Week 19
Kitchen scraps to the deer yard have ceased, they scraps no go on the compost pile as the deer are getting to be pests up around the house.
Deer is on the left. This doe looks to be pregnant.
Week 20
Deer have gone from being assisted with the task of living to now being persona non grata. The garden has essentially been stripped of everything except the pole beans, and the zinnias. We have raised the fence to 8 feet in height. Now testing if they can still get in to the produce.
Hen turkey parades around the front yard in the evening, but have not seen any evidence of a nest yet.
No sign of hogs lately, maybe it is too dry at this time.
Keeping the bird feeders and birdbaths full. The painted buntings are back and really take to the water.
Week 21
The leopard frog is back in the water tub in the front under the eave. In spite of this water tub being out of the bounds of the wildlife acreage, it is still a boon to all the wildlife, as it has something for everyone, including the ramp for the birds.
Hen turkey is still around
Raccoon visits often at night, but seems to do no damage that is visible, but then, who knows if the raccoon has found the turkey nest?
Week 22
Hauled two big loads of brush to the main brush pile in the western end of the tract.
Strangely, we have not seen a roadrunner yet this spring. Will do a bird census in the next week or so.
Still some evidence of deer in the garden. Not sure where they can get in, but plugging all the holes, no matter how small.
Starting to work on the cactus problem on the west side.
No deer in the feedlot during daylight hours.
First sighting of the painted bunting, but I think they arrived earlier because we could hear them, but not spot them. They, especially, like the water provided.
The purple martin population here, again, is zero. Wonder why. At one time, we were going to build a fake chimney for chimney swifts, but cancelled that project for the reason of not seeing any martins.
Week 19
Kitchen scraps to the deer yard have ceased, they scraps no go on the compost pile as the deer are getting to be pests up around the house.
Deer is on the left. This doe looks to be pregnant.
Week 20
Deer have gone from being assisted with the task of living to now being persona non grata. The garden has essentially been stripped of everything except the pole beans, and the zinnias. We have raised the fence to 8 feet in height. Now testing if they can still get in to the produce.
Hen turkey parades around the front yard in the evening, but have not seen any evidence of a nest yet.
No sign of hogs lately, maybe it is too dry at this time.
Keeping the bird feeders and birdbaths full. The painted buntings are back and really take to the water.
Week 21
The leopard frog is back in the water tub in the front under the eave. In spite of this water tub being out of the bounds of the wildlife acreage, it is still a boon to all the wildlife, as it has something for everyone, including the ramp for the birds.
Hen turkey is still around
Raccoon visits often at night, but seems to do no damage that is visible, but then, who knows if the raccoon has found the turkey nest?
Week 22
Hauled two big loads of brush to the main brush pile in the western end of the tract.
Strangely, we have not seen a roadrunner yet this spring. Will do a bird census in the next week or so.
April 2017 Activity
Week 14
Garden fence is up, now hoping that the deer do not dare to cross the breezeway to get to the garden.
Two loads of brush to the pile. We are now concentrating all the brush in one pile as a series of small piles seem ineffective as a refuge.
Week 15
Turkeys are still coming through the property, but in smaller groups. Probably in getting set up for the nesting season.
First roadrunner showed up, first in a long time.
Small bird activity seems down from last year.
Week 16
Deer seem to be getting into the garden, some blossoms are disappearing at night.
Two more loads of brush to the big pile
Water tanks are all full
Two does this week.
Lone turkey wanders through the south side about every other day. Must have nest nearby
Week 17
No report this week.
Garden fence is up, now hoping that the deer do not dare to cross the breezeway to get to the garden.
Two loads of brush to the pile. We are now concentrating all the brush in one pile as a series of small piles seem ineffective as a refuge.
Week 15
Turkeys are still coming through the property, but in smaller groups. Probably in getting set up for the nesting season.
First roadrunner showed up, first in a long time.
Small bird activity seems down from last year.
Week 16
Deer seem to be getting into the garden, some blossoms are disappearing at night.
Two more loads of brush to the big pile
Water tanks are all full
Two does this week.
Lone turkey wanders through the south side about every other day. Must have nest nearby
Week 17
No report this week.
March 2017 Actvity
Week 10
Down, now, to only a few cactus which we will retain for the tunas they make for the wildlife. Sometime this year, we need to move this eradication effort to the west side to get rid of more cactus where they are in thick groves. Everytime I go to clearing a large grove of cactus, many small birds fly out, making me think they are using these thickets for refuge from harsh weather.
Week 11
Kitchen scraps to the deer yard. Five does now feeding. There may have been some harvesting of the does this last season, as the average number of does that show up at the kitchen scraps table is down about 3 does from preseason counts.
No evidence of purple martins at the martin house.
Plenty of nesting activity by the titmice and the wrens.
Barn swallows keep being driven out by the phoebes. The phoebes took over the swallow nest two years ago and as of now, have not given it up.
Week 12
Big winds, tornado like, swept through last night and took down a big tree on the north side and one on the very south side.
No wildlife activity to note.
Week 13
Feed to the deer yard, four does showing up, maybe one buck.
No snakes observed yet this spring.
Decided to erect a deer fence to protect the vegetable garden next to the back of the house. Deer are always nosing around up close to the house at night in spite of their being afraid of us. (we keep them being afraid of us)
Down, now, to only a few cactus which we will retain for the tunas they make for the wildlife. Sometime this year, we need to move this eradication effort to the west side to get rid of more cactus where they are in thick groves. Everytime I go to clearing a large grove of cactus, many small birds fly out, making me think they are using these thickets for refuge from harsh weather.
Week 11
Kitchen scraps to the deer yard. Five does now feeding. There may have been some harvesting of the does this last season, as the average number of does that show up at the kitchen scraps table is down about 3 does from preseason counts.
No evidence of purple martins at the martin house.
Plenty of nesting activity by the titmice and the wrens.
Barn swallows keep being driven out by the phoebes. The phoebes took over the swallow nest two years ago and as of now, have not given it up.
Week 12
Big winds, tornado like, swept through last night and took down a big tree on the north side and one on the very south side.
No wildlife activity to note.
Week 13
Feed to the deer yard, four does showing up, maybe one buck.
No snakes observed yet this spring.
Decided to erect a deer fence to protect the vegetable garden next to the back of the house. Deer are always nosing around up close to the house at night in spite of their being afraid of us. (we keep them being afraid of us)
February 2017 Activity
Week 6
Mowed some of the grass to knock down the high dead stuff and clear the way for new growth in the spring. Removed two very large cactus and put on the brush pile.
The deer are getting to be a menace up around the house in spite of feeding and watering 100yards away.
Week 7
Big, perhaps 20, turkeys wandered through the back side of the property. Two males present.
Sufficient rain, but not a lot.
Week 8
Finished mowing for the winter, but still have a few cactus to take out.
Inspected the brush pile. It seems to be compacting more than it should in order to provide a good refuge for small animals.
Still, no evidence of mice in the area at all, such a change from a year ago. No mice, no owls.
Week 9
Bought a new bag of sunflower seeds. It appears that the gang of cardinals are much smaller this year. Maybe they found something better.
Table scraps to the deer yard.
We went through a real lapse in hog damage, but now, this week, there has been a lot of uprooting in the south side of the property. Perhaps twenty holes now need to be refilled.
Weather okay, no additional water needed.
Mowed some of the grass to knock down the high dead stuff and clear the way for new growth in the spring. Removed two very large cactus and put on the brush pile.
The deer are getting to be a menace up around the house in spite of feeding and watering 100yards away.
Week 7
Big, perhaps 20, turkeys wandered through the back side of the property. Two males present.
Sufficient rain, but not a lot.
Week 8
Finished mowing for the winter, but still have a few cactus to take out.
Inspected the brush pile. It seems to be compacting more than it should in order to provide a good refuge for small animals.
Still, no evidence of mice in the area at all, such a change from a year ago. No mice, no owls.
Week 9
Bought a new bag of sunflower seeds. It appears that the gang of cardinals are much smaller this year. Maybe they found something better.
Table scraps to the deer yard.
We went through a real lapse in hog damage, but now, this week, there has been a lot of uprooting in the south side of the property. Perhaps twenty holes now need to be refilled.
Weather okay, no additional water needed.
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