Week 44
Good bit of rain, the ground seems okay for fall perennial growth. We have not seen any bluebonnet plants emerging yet.
Roadrunner made an appearance at the glass in the front entrance, seeing itself as a reflection was puzzling to its brain.
No hog evidence in the last six months--someone must have shot the big boar that was digging up this place a year ago. The damage continued even after we shot the one we did, thinking that would have ended the digging.
Pulled up about 4 large cacti and hauled same to the brushpile.
Week 45
We have decided to enclose a small portion of the back yard to prevent deer from getting all the flowering shrubs and our vegetable plantings. Even though the feedings have been several hundred feet distant from the house, plus we make every effort to scare them from the property, the deer have gotten way to bold at night. Cost will be about $300.
Have not heard much in the way of hunting activity.
Hand harvested a lot of Indian Grass seed and rescattered the seed in other areas. There are now several stands of this large grass and so the reseeding is paying off,
Not much sideoats to harvest this year, and an average amount of little bluestem seed.
Bought a bunch of native flowering seeds fro Wildflower Seed in Fredericksburg ($35). Will now scatter this in the area for both our viewing and the enjoyment of the wildlife.
Week 46
Deer fence is up.
Most wildlife signs are very quiet---but we did hear a pack of coyotes that were within a hundred yards of this location.
Saw a large king snake, one of the few snakes seen this year.
Week 47
Deer activity unchanged. Feeding kitchen vegetable scraps perhaps twice per week, with 4 sometimes 5 does showing up.
Saw a big buck in the back yard. Only one this year.
Songbirds seem to have departed for the year.
Raccoon activity is less this year than last year at this time.
Week 48
The buck deer makes a rather regular appearance. Hope to get a picture one of these days.
Not much sound of hunting activity this year based on gunshot reports.
Saw one flock of turkeys, maybe about 12.
Water seems to be needed these days as the trough by the big water tank is continually drawn down.
Bought new bag of sunflower seeds.
Provided kitchen scraps and sweet feed to the deer yard. The does seem to show up only at near dark time.
Sunday, November 20, 2016
October 2016 Activity
Week 40
Mowed about half the areas of dense ragweed, but left some for the quail. Incidentally, a quail flew into the glass of the front entranceway and died.
Cut some cedar branches and hauled same to the back brushpile. The brushpile is getting to look more healthy and capable of providing shelter.
Short of rain, but not critical.
Saw a few turkeys on the road in front, but not a large group.
We have removed the electric fence charger from the bird feeder ( it was there to discourage raccoons) and so far none have returned to feed on the sunflower seeds
Week 41
Sending some vegetable scraps from the kitchen to the deer yard on an every other day frequency. The deer really go for these green scraps.
Deer herd is down this year, or someone else has their attention, not sure which. Never see more than four at a time.
Leopard frogs are still in the tank under the eave of the front roof. Sometimes there are three of them, sometimes none. I think they keep surveying the weather outlook to determine when they should leave and find a rock to hide under for the winter.
Week 42
Spot of rain, so all the tanks are now full again.
Deer herd is small, but they are pesky, even to the extent of climbing up onto the terraced garden in the back yard and eating everything in sight.
Have seen no hawks this year and have not seen nor heard any owls either---strange. Mice are still in very few numbers.
Cardinals have taken their fall vacation. Every year they depart for about a month and then return. Where they go is not clear.
Lots of what I would call June bugs hatching out
Week 43
Not much activity, by either the wildlife or ourselves.
Mowed about half the areas of dense ragweed, but left some for the quail. Incidentally, a quail flew into the glass of the front entranceway and died.
Cut some cedar branches and hauled same to the back brushpile. The brushpile is getting to look more healthy and capable of providing shelter.
Short of rain, but not critical.
Saw a few turkeys on the road in front, but not a large group.
We have removed the electric fence charger from the bird feeder ( it was there to discourage raccoons) and so far none have returned to feed on the sunflower seeds
Week 41
Sending some vegetable scraps from the kitchen to the deer yard on an every other day frequency. The deer really go for these green scraps.
Deer herd is down this year, or someone else has their attention, not sure which. Never see more than four at a time.
Leopard frogs are still in the tank under the eave of the front roof. Sometimes there are three of them, sometimes none. I think they keep surveying the weather outlook to determine when they should leave and find a rock to hide under for the winter.
Week 42
Spot of rain, so all the tanks are now full again.
Deer herd is small, but they are pesky, even to the extent of climbing up onto the terraced garden in the back yard and eating everything in sight.
Have seen no hawks this year and have not seen nor heard any owls either---strange. Mice are still in very few numbers.
Cardinals have taken their fall vacation. Every year they depart for about a month and then return. Where they go is not clear.
Lots of what I would call June bugs hatching out
Week 43
Not much activity, by either the wildlife or ourselves.
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
September 2016 Activity
Week 36
Labor day weekend, not much activity on this end.
Week 37
Mowed a few test strips to see how the grass competes with the weed. Dilemma: Quail like the seeds of the ragweed, but I do not. So, cut some of the ragweed before it sets seed or not.
Kitchen scraps to the deer yard, as well as water. Deer look healthy.
Still no owls observed, as well as no mice in the grass fields. Hummingbirds still here. Quail have stopped calling, but still here no doubt. A few warblers showing up at the feeder.
Week 38
Most of the "predators" have been scarce so far this season; seldom see evidence of skunks, squirrels are scarce, never seem to hear coyotes anymore, raccoons show up in the birdbath water on occasions.
Same number of deer show up when there is food in the deer yard.
Week 39
Good rains. Grass is starting to show some seed generation activity. Some really nice stands of windmill grass and sideoats in the near rear yard. Also, some evidence of indian grass in stands that were seeded in the past years. These are stands that have been started from the main stand of grass that has existed by the martin house for some years. The indian grass is distinctive to say the least.
Pulled out two more big mounds of prickly pear. PP fruit production seems scant, but enough for food for the wildlife.
Hauled three loads of Palo Verde limbs from the cleanup I did on the county roadside where the slough goes under SB Drive--put them on the big brushpile in the back.
Not seen any bucks yet.
Labor day weekend, not much activity on this end.
Week 37
Mowed a few test strips to see how the grass competes with the weed. Dilemma: Quail like the seeds of the ragweed, but I do not. So, cut some of the ragweed before it sets seed or not.
Kitchen scraps to the deer yard, as well as water. Deer look healthy.
Still no owls observed, as well as no mice in the grass fields. Hummingbirds still here. Quail have stopped calling, but still here no doubt. A few warblers showing up at the feeder.
Week 38
Most of the "predators" have been scarce so far this season; seldom see evidence of skunks, squirrels are scarce, never seem to hear coyotes anymore, raccoons show up in the birdbath water on occasions.
Same number of deer show up when there is food in the deer yard.
Week 39
Good rains. Grass is starting to show some seed generation activity. Some really nice stands of windmill grass and sideoats in the near rear yard. Also, some evidence of indian grass in stands that were seeded in the past years. These are stands that have been started from the main stand of grass that has existed by the martin house for some years. The indian grass is distinctive to say the least.
Pulled out two more big mounds of prickly pear. PP fruit production seems scant, but enough for food for the wildlife.
Hauled three loads of Palo Verde limbs from the cleanup I did on the county roadside where the slough goes under SB Drive--put them on the big brushpile in the back.
Not seen any bucks yet.
Monday, August 29, 2016
August 2016 Activity
Week 31
Still no rain, so continuing the watering of the troughs and feeding kitchen vegetable scraps to the deer( and whoever else comes to dine).
Quail still here, but have not seen the painted bunting lately
Observed six turkeys, full grown,
Hauled two buckets of brush to the main brushpile.
L. Frog shows up in the water tank, but then disappears for awhile. You can tell when its about to go gallivanting, as it sits on the rim of the tank for some time before leaping off.
Mowed some strips through the tall grass, most of which the tops are dead, so that animals can move more freely.
Week 32
Still no rain.
Deer show up whenever I put vegetable scraps (now added sweet feed to menu) to the deer feed lot.
Pulled up 4 big prickly pear cactus and put them on the brush pile.
Still have not seen a fawn, nor have seen any bucks yet this fall.
Week 33
Rained this week, crisis may have ended. My assessment of the drought conditions here is that the drought was about as severe as it was back during the height of the area drought a year ago.
Quail still here, buntings have left, other songbirds are reduced in their populations.
Week 34
Skunk odor all around this morning, but this has been kinda rare. Hardly ever note the presence of skunks. Raccoons are diminished in population as well, mainly since I have electrified the bird feeder. Putting kitchen vegetable scraps in the deer yard for the 4-6 does that show up for the feed.
Week 35
All the grass responded to the small amount of rain that fell.
Hauled two loaders of brush to the pile in the back. Observed a flock of turkeys this afternoon, they were about 12 in number. Observed deer for most days this week, there being about 6 in number. Not sure where this small deer came from, but it is the first one observed that has obviously born this year. No spots.
Have not seen any bucks yet, their horns should be showing by now.
Still no rain, so continuing the watering of the troughs and feeding kitchen vegetable scraps to the deer( and whoever else comes to dine).
Quail still here, but have not seen the painted bunting lately
Observed six turkeys, full grown,
Hauled two buckets of brush to the main brushpile.
L. Frog shows up in the water tank, but then disappears for awhile. You can tell when its about to go gallivanting, as it sits on the rim of the tank for some time before leaping off.
Mowed some strips through the tall grass, most of which the tops are dead, so that animals can move more freely.
Week 32
Still no rain.
Deer show up whenever I put vegetable scraps (now added sweet feed to menu) to the deer feed lot.
Pulled up 4 big prickly pear cactus and put them on the brush pile.
Still have not seen a fawn, nor have seen any bucks yet this fall.
Week 33
Rained this week, crisis may have ended. My assessment of the drought conditions here is that the drought was about as severe as it was back during the height of the area drought a year ago.
Quail still here, buntings have left, other songbirds are reduced in their populations.
Week 34
Skunk odor all around this morning, but this has been kinda rare. Hardly ever note the presence of skunks. Raccoons are diminished in population as well, mainly since I have electrified the bird feeder. Putting kitchen vegetable scraps in the deer yard for the 4-6 does that show up for the feed.
Week 35
All the grass responded to the small amount of rain that fell.
Hauled two loaders of brush to the pile in the back. Observed a flock of turkeys this afternoon, they were about 12 in number. Observed deer for most days this week, there being about 6 in number. Not sure where this small deer came from, but it is the first one observed that has obviously born this year. No spots.
Have not seen any bucks yet, their horns should be showing by now.
Thursday, July 21, 2016
July 2016 Activity
Week 27
Dry, no rain in sight.
No deer seen, even in the early hours. There is some evidence of deer bedding down in the long grass near the paths cut with the mower. They seem to like the long grass near a runway. But they must be very wary as we never see them.
Quail are still here. Saw two fly the other day, but no evidence of a whole covey
We have heard turkeys in the direction of Purgatory Creek, but have not seen any on this property.
Painted buntings are still here.
Week 28
Dry, have continued the emphasis on providing water.
Now we know there are deer here as they completely cleaned out the remains of the tomato garden,
No evidence of any noticeable grass seed production yet.
Cleared two big Prickly pears an put them on the brush pile
We plan to start a project for studying why only live oaks seem to grow here and no others. Over the last three years we have planted what seems like hundreds of red oak and burr oak acorns, and only two have germinated and are still alive. There is interest in these other oaks as they are big crop producers, good for wildlife.
Quail are still here.
No deer spotted this week and no obvious evidence of skunks, raccoons, or squirrels. Most have been attracted to the bird feeder at night, but since we re-installed the electric fence charger to the feeder, they have been discouraged.
Week 29
Received good feedback from Blake who works for TPWD on the oaks question. Studies have shown that red oaks and burr oaks just flatly do not like the conditions here in the uplands of the Edwards Plateau. So, that being the explanation why planting acorns from these two trees was unsuccessful, we will now switch to Post Oaks and Blackjack oaks. Now, need to find some acorns from those trees.
Still dry, still watering the tanks.
Week 30
Quail still here, but in fact, we need to see from literature if they ever leave, or do they just go silent.
Deer are eating the scraps in the feed lot, but still only three, sometimes two does. We have not seen any bucks yet this late summer.
Saw 8 full grown turkeys yesterday.
Heard faint sounds of coyotes, but they were so far away, it was difficult to be sure.
Dry, no rain in sight.
No deer seen, even in the early hours. There is some evidence of deer bedding down in the long grass near the paths cut with the mower. They seem to like the long grass near a runway. But they must be very wary as we never see them.
Quail are still here. Saw two fly the other day, but no evidence of a whole covey
We have heard turkeys in the direction of Purgatory Creek, but have not seen any on this property.
Painted buntings are still here.
Week 28
Dry, have continued the emphasis on providing water.
Now we know there are deer here as they completely cleaned out the remains of the tomato garden,
No evidence of any noticeable grass seed production yet.
Cleared two big Prickly pears an put them on the brush pile
We plan to start a project for studying why only live oaks seem to grow here and no others. Over the last three years we have planted what seems like hundreds of red oak and burr oak acorns, and only two have germinated and are still alive. There is interest in these other oaks as they are big crop producers, good for wildlife.
Quail are still here.
No deer spotted this week and no obvious evidence of skunks, raccoons, or squirrels. Most have been attracted to the bird feeder at night, but since we re-installed the electric fence charger to the feeder, they have been discouraged.
Week 29
Received good feedback from Blake who works for TPWD on the oaks question. Studies have shown that red oaks and burr oaks just flatly do not like the conditions here in the uplands of the Edwards Plateau. So, that being the explanation why planting acorns from these two trees was unsuccessful, we will now switch to Post Oaks and Blackjack oaks. Now, need to find some acorns from those trees.
Still dry, still watering the tanks.
Week 30
Quail still here, but in fact, we need to see from literature if they ever leave, or do they just go silent.
Deer are eating the scraps in the feed lot, but still only three, sometimes two does. We have not seen any bucks yet this late summer.
Saw 8 full grown turkeys yesterday.
Heard faint sounds of coyotes, but they were so far away, it was difficult to be sure.
June 2016 Activity
Week 22
Hauled two loads of brush to the main brush pile. The rain this spring collapsed the pile to such an extent that only small animals can now seek cover there.
No deer seen this week, wonder why.
Wet weather has helped the grass (and weeds).
All the water sources are full of water, so we set for a while.
Week 23
Even though we had a lot of rain this spring, its beginning to look dry again.
Two deer spotted this week on two different days.
Painted buntings are still here, looks as if they had a successful nesting season this year.
Still hearing the bobwhite quail in the mornings.
As mentioned before, there seem to be less songbirds this year.
No nesters in the purple martin house, not even blackbirds or sparrows.
Week 24
Strange that we have seen no fawns this year, not one, even on adjoining properties. Neighbor reports seeing a mountain lion, maybe that is the cause.
Keeping the bird feeders and bird baths full. The water in the birdbaths is what seems to keep the painted buntings to returning every year.
No mowing yet, as TPWD advisor says the best time is the fall when all the grass has gone to seed.
Week 25
Made a grass seed production survey this week. Of course the Texas winter grass covers several acres and has done well.
Other grasses that have produced some seed are: love grass, windmill grass, and a few others, but the sideoats don't seem to be set to produce any seeds. Need to wait and check later.
Two deer again this week, but, wow, are they wary. That's good, don't want them to be domesticated.
Put another load of brush on the main brush pile.
Week 26
Getting noticeably dry again, will pay particular attention to the watering holes in the two main places.
Native grasses are set for a big failure in seed crop unless we get some rain.
Inspected the back 10 acres to determine the condition of grass and habitat in that area that is grazed. It looks quite good relatively as the grass on the whole ranch has lessened the grazing pressure on this end of this tract.
Hauled two loads of brush to the main brush pile. The rain this spring collapsed the pile to such an extent that only small animals can now seek cover there.
No deer seen this week, wonder why.
Wet weather has helped the grass (and weeds).
All the water sources are full of water, so we set for a while.
Week 23
Even though we had a lot of rain this spring, its beginning to look dry again.
Two deer spotted this week on two different days.
Painted buntings are still here, looks as if they had a successful nesting season this year.
Still hearing the bobwhite quail in the mornings.
As mentioned before, there seem to be less songbirds this year.
No nesters in the purple martin house, not even blackbirds or sparrows.
Week 24
Strange that we have seen no fawns this year, not one, even on adjoining properties. Neighbor reports seeing a mountain lion, maybe that is the cause.
Keeping the bird feeders and bird baths full. The water in the birdbaths is what seems to keep the painted buntings to returning every year.
No mowing yet, as TPWD advisor says the best time is the fall when all the grass has gone to seed.
Week 25
Made a grass seed production survey this week. Of course the Texas winter grass covers several acres and has done well.
Other grasses that have produced some seed are: love grass, windmill grass, and a few others, but the sideoats don't seem to be set to produce any seeds. Need to wait and check later.
Two deer again this week, but, wow, are they wary. That's good, don't want them to be domesticated.
Put another load of brush on the main brush pile.
Week 26
Getting noticeably dry again, will pay particular attention to the watering holes in the two main places.
Native grasses are set for a big failure in seed crop unless we get some rain.
Inspected the back 10 acres to determine the condition of grass and habitat in that area that is grazed. It looks quite good relatively as the grass on the whole ranch has lessened the grazing pressure on this end of this tract.
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
May 2016 Activity
Week 18
We contacted the TPWD local expert to visit and advise on some questions. Key questions are brush management (cut or no cut) grassland management (mow or no mow, or mow on what schedule), grass seed most effective in this area, and selective cactus removal.
Song bird population is way down this year. Observations to date:
We contacted the TPWD local expert to visit and advise on some questions. Key questions are brush management (cut or no cut) grassland management (mow or no mow, or mow on what schedule), grass seed most effective in this area, and selective cactus removal.
Song bird population is way down this year. Observations to date:
- Cardinals are about half of a normal year.
- Very few sparrows, no blackbirds, no hawks
- One pair painted buntings
- Two pairs nesting wrens
- One pair phoebes. (note on the phoebes: they successfully took over the barn swallow nest from last year and even ran off the returning swallows.
- One nesting pair of titmouse
- Turkeys seem okay as we hear them a lot.
- Still hear the quail, but have not seen any
- Poor will sings most evenings
- The roadrunner is scarce, but then we saw them only in droughty times coming for water at the trough.
Deer are limited in number. Never see more than three. And, have not seen any fawns this year so far. All this may be explained by the fact that neighbors seem to be feeding them, something that should not be done in this wet weather when so much natural food is available.
Week 19
Very quiet, the wet weather has a suppressing effect on all the wildlife---it seems
Have not seen but one snake this year so far, and that was a coachwhip. Encouraged it to go find some mice.
Week 20
Two loads of brush to the main pile to the west. Pile keeps settling due to decay, etc.
Its about time to take the purple martin house done for cleaning and refurbishing. There has been no activity in this bird house this year.
Its about time to take the purple martin house done for cleaning and refurbishing. There has been no activity in this bird house this year.
Plenty of giant swallowtail caterpillars on the dill.
Provided information to the community about preserving (not mowing) the antelope horns milkweed and, it appears as if the message was taken seriously.
Planning a second round of prickly pear cactus removal, after consulting with TPWD
Week 21
Plenty rain, everything is growing wildly. All the wildlife have enough water and brouse so that they are "on their own" for awhile.
Occasionally detect that skunks and raccoons have visited overnight.
Turkeys are heard frequently.
No deer seen all this week on this property, but have seen some on adjacent lands.
Week 21
Plenty rain, everything is growing wildly. All the wildlife have enough water and brouse so that they are "on their own" for awhile.
Occasionally detect that skunks and raccoons have visited overnight.
Turkeys are heard frequently.
No deer seen all this week on this property, but have seen some on adjacent lands.
Monday, April 11, 2016
April 2016 Activity
Week 14
Good rains, about 2 inches.
Must be a fawn is in the brush just in the front yard. Doe keeps hanging around the area in the evening, a sure sign that her fawn is close by. This has been our experience, that does tend to place their fawns near people as they must think that that would be a more safe place. If this is the case here, it will be the third time we have experienced this.
Hen turkey makes a daily round of the south side, in the short, new grass looking for food. Must have a nest of turkeys close by.
We have not seen evidence of the feral hog lately.
Treated 22 mounds of fire ants. They really sprout up after a rain, must be to get the eggs out of the water..
Still no sign of either the painted buntings, or the quail.
Have not heard coyotes for two months.
Week 15
Replace two bluebird houses. No sign of bluebirds however.
Wren houses are popular, wren in one, and the other is occupied by a tufted titmouse.
Deer are scarce this spring. Have seen no fawns yet.
Week 17
The hen turkey does not feed in the back yard anymore that we can see, so she must have reared her chicks and moved on. Nevertheless, we should see her escorting the brood around the area soon.
Deer again scarce. When we do see them, there are no more than three in the group.
We spotted one painted bunting, one day, but not subsequent days.
Hauled three buckets of brush to the main brushpile.
Treated 19 fire ant mounds.
Invited the TPWD person to make a site visit. We have a lot of questions listed for his advice.
Good rains, about 2 inches.
Must be a fawn is in the brush just in the front yard. Doe keeps hanging around the area in the evening, a sure sign that her fawn is close by. This has been our experience, that does tend to place their fawns near people as they must think that that would be a more safe place. If this is the case here, it will be the third time we have experienced this.
Hen turkey makes a daily round of the south side, in the short, new grass looking for food. Must have a nest of turkeys close by.
We have not seen evidence of the feral hog lately.
Treated 22 mounds of fire ants. They really sprout up after a rain, must be to get the eggs out of the water..
Still no sign of either the painted buntings, or the quail.
Have not heard coyotes for two months.
Week 15
Replace two bluebird houses. No sign of bluebirds however.
Wren houses are popular, wren in one, and the other is occupied by a tufted titmouse.
Deer are scarce this spring. Have seen no fawns yet.
Week 17
The hen turkey does not feed in the back yard anymore that we can see, so she must have reared her chicks and moved on. Nevertheless, we should see her escorting the brood around the area soon.
Deer again scarce. When we do see them, there are no more than three in the group.
We spotted one painted bunting, one day, but not subsequent days.
Hauled three buckets of brush to the main brushpile.
Treated 19 fire ant mounds.
Invited the TPWD person to make a site visit. We have a lot of questions listed for his advice.
March 2016 Activity
Week 9
New experience today. For the last several years we have heard a dove like sound, always descending in tone, about 4 calls in series. Well, today the sound was coming from the top of a tree nearby, so we moved into the area and with the binoculars, searched for the source of the sound. Hah, it was a roadrunner, sitting high in the tree perched along the length of the branch and making this sound. Turning to the birdbook, this is now confirmed as the roadrunners mating call---very unlike his vibrating like call one normally hears.
Week 10
Replaced the cattle trough under the front window with the plank leading into it. Although this is "outside" the wildlife area, it nonetheless is a very important wildlife feature as it has a guaranteed water source in the even we are away---plus the birds really like the wooden "beach" for accessing the water. The leopard frogs have not made their appearance lately.
Regarding the species we list in our wildlife plan, its easy to focus on deer because they are big, they are visible and they are always in the news. But, deer have an amazing ability to take care of themselves and adapt to surroundings. We are more concerned with habitat for all the species, including the lowly mouse.
On the subject of mice, they are nowhere to be found this spring so far. Not a good sign
Week 11
The hen turkey does not reappear lately, hopefully the brood is hatched and we will see the small birds soon.
Hearing coyotes on one occasion lately, but coyote evidence is way down this year compared to last year. Don't know if there are trappers in the area, but there could be as there are large ranches nearby.
Cardinals are reappearing.
Have not seen bluebird one yet this year. Evidence of bluebirds keeps dropping year after year.
Week 12
The purple martin house has been up for almost two months and no sign of purple martins, even those that just cruise through the area. The barn swallows showed up briefly to check out their nest of previous years, but found mother Phoebe sitting on eggs in the nest. Like good birds, they left and did not bother the nesting Phoebe.
Strange, no deer observed this week.
Week 13
Estimate of annual cash costs for wildlife:
Black oil sunflower seed .......$40.00
Diesel Fuel ............................$54.00
Feed corn................................$18.00
Wood for bird nestboxes........$52.00
Fireant killer...........................$26.00
Estimate of annual labor hours for wildlife:
Average of 6 hours per week x 48 weeks...288 hours.
Variety of birds seems low this spring.
Observed regularly:
New experience today. For the last several years we have heard a dove like sound, always descending in tone, about 4 calls in series. Well, today the sound was coming from the top of a tree nearby, so we moved into the area and with the binoculars, searched for the source of the sound. Hah, it was a roadrunner, sitting high in the tree perched along the length of the branch and making this sound. Turning to the birdbook, this is now confirmed as the roadrunners mating call---very unlike his vibrating like call one normally hears.
Week 10
Replaced the cattle trough under the front window with the plank leading into it. Although this is "outside" the wildlife area, it nonetheless is a very important wildlife feature as it has a guaranteed water source in the even we are away---plus the birds really like the wooden "beach" for accessing the water. The leopard frogs have not made their appearance lately.
Regarding the species we list in our wildlife plan, its easy to focus on deer because they are big, they are visible and they are always in the news. But, deer have an amazing ability to take care of themselves and adapt to surroundings. We are more concerned with habitat for all the species, including the lowly mouse.
On the subject of mice, they are nowhere to be found this spring so far. Not a good sign
Week 11
The hen turkey does not reappear lately, hopefully the brood is hatched and we will see the small birds soon.
Hearing coyotes on one occasion lately, but coyote evidence is way down this year compared to last year. Don't know if there are trappers in the area, but there could be as there are large ranches nearby.
Cardinals are reappearing.
Have not seen bluebird one yet this year. Evidence of bluebirds keeps dropping year after year.
Week 12
The purple martin house has been up for almost two months and no sign of purple martins, even those that just cruise through the area. The barn swallows showed up briefly to check out their nest of previous years, but found mother Phoebe sitting on eggs in the nest. Like good birds, they left and did not bother the nesting Phoebe.
Strange, no deer observed this week.
Week 13
Estimate of annual cash costs for wildlife:
Black oil sunflower seed .......$40.00
Diesel Fuel ............................$54.00
Feed corn................................$18.00
Wood for bird nestboxes........$52.00
Fireant killer...........................$26.00
Estimate of annual labor hours for wildlife:
Average of 6 hours per week x 48 weeks...288 hours.
Variety of birds seems low this spring.
Observed regularly:
- Cardinals
- Titmouse
- Carolina wren
- Mockingbird
- Vulture
- Phoebe
- Lesser goldfinch
Observed on occasion:
- Raven
- Red Tailed Hawk
- Roadrunner
- Turkey
- Cara Cara
- Chicadee
- Barn Swallow
Not observed so far this year (but have in the past):
- Parouque
- House finch
- Painted bunting (late?)
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
February 2016 Activity
Week 5
Big news, the lone large black hog has been shot and left for the buzzards. We hope this is the last of the destruction in the south to the fenceline.
Still very dry and having to keep the water troughs full.
Four does usually pass through early in the morning probably on their way to someones corn feeder. Beginning to be concerned about excessive feeding of the deer year round, making them into pets.
Correction, although Bruce shot a sow at his feeder near Purgatory Creek, he did not get the big boar that is so destructive. Janets game camera catches a sow with an entourage of some 8 smaller pigs at the south end of Steeplebrook. So, we still have some hog work to do.
Week 6
There is a turkey nesting close by. Saw her twice this week feeding in the mowed (last year) south side of the property. It probably is good to mow the dead grass late in the year so that in the spring when the new grass is short the turkeys have easy feeding, yet have the cover of the cedars and oaks along the border.
Most days this week, the typical herd of 4 does is spotted either in the east end of the tract or the south end, mainly moving on through to somewhere. As mentioned earlier, there are more than one neighbor who apparently fill their corn feeder year round. This is not good for the deer.
The Virginia warbler does not show up anymore, so it must have been migrating through the area.
Week 7 (March 14-20)
Visitor all week, no activity recorded
Week 8
Only three does showed up for most of this week.
New hog damage in the south side. Used tractor to replace the torn up areas---there were ten areas to repair.
Cleared about 6 big cactus.
On the subject of cactus, we still have not seen one of the acorns planted in the surrounds of a prickly pear cactus germinate and grow. Close observation shows that germination is the problem, not deer foraging after germination.
Acorn planting in general has been a big disappointment. Of hundreds of acorns planted over the last 3 years, only 4 have germinated and grown into small (one foot tall) trees so far.
Big news, the lone large black hog has been shot and left for the buzzards. We hope this is the last of the destruction in the south to the fenceline.
Still very dry and having to keep the water troughs full.
Four does usually pass through early in the morning probably on their way to someones corn feeder. Beginning to be concerned about excessive feeding of the deer year round, making them into pets.
Correction, although Bruce shot a sow at his feeder near Purgatory Creek, he did not get the big boar that is so destructive. Janets game camera catches a sow with an entourage of some 8 smaller pigs at the south end of Steeplebrook. So, we still have some hog work to do.
Week 6
There is a turkey nesting close by. Saw her twice this week feeding in the mowed (last year) south side of the property. It probably is good to mow the dead grass late in the year so that in the spring when the new grass is short the turkeys have easy feeding, yet have the cover of the cedars and oaks along the border.
Most days this week, the typical herd of 4 does is spotted either in the east end of the tract or the south end, mainly moving on through to somewhere. As mentioned earlier, there are more than one neighbor who apparently fill their corn feeder year round. This is not good for the deer.
The Virginia warbler does not show up anymore, so it must have been migrating through the area.
Week 7 (March 14-20)
Visitor all week, no activity recorded
Week 8
Only three does showed up for most of this week.
New hog damage in the south side. Used tractor to replace the torn up areas---there were ten areas to repair.
Cleared about 6 big cactus.
On the subject of cactus, we still have not seen one of the acorns planted in the surrounds of a prickly pear cactus germinate and grow. Close observation shows that germination is the problem, not deer foraging after germination.
Acorn planting in general has been a big disappointment. Of hundreds of acorns planted over the last 3 years, only 4 have germinated and grown into small (one foot tall) trees so far.
January 2016 Activity
Week 1
Still seeing some new hog damage in the back yard. We are trying to make the best of it by repairing the damaged area by pulling the dirt back into the hole and seeding the same with little bluestem. Completed perhaps 6 damaged areas.
Deer are scarce. One neighbor called and said they had shot a deer with arrow and were tracking it in our direction. They found the downed deer and hauled it off.
Week 2
Neighboring property reports that they trapped a boar, a sow and three small pigs in their trap. Perhaps they got the culprits who have been tearing up the south slope. We shall see.
Deer population exploded to 9 does this week, but no bucks. Seems like hunting pressure was greater this year than it was last year.
Small band of turkeys moved through.
Do not see much evidence of raccoons or possums, but from the droppings around, they do seem to visit at night, even up on the back porch where they leave their calling card.
Coyote evidence this year is down considerably from last year. Not sure why, but the bordering ranches might be actively destroying them.
Week 3
Really dry again, having to water the wildlife tanks in front and back. Holding back on feeding kitchen vegetable scraps to the deer as the hog keeps rooting up the back yard.
Week 4
Routine for the deer seems to be 3 to 5 does in the back near the fenceline early in the morning, seldom at night.
Winter bird count: Cardinals, tufted titmice, Virginia warbler (new to us this year), sparrow, wren (not sure species), mocking bird, buzzard, pereque (call), Carolina wren, chickadee, phoebe. Noticeable short list of birds this winter.
Also noticeable absent this year are red fox, coyote, turkey, and mice.
Still seeing some new hog damage in the back yard. We are trying to make the best of it by repairing the damaged area by pulling the dirt back into the hole and seeding the same with little bluestem. Completed perhaps 6 damaged areas.
Deer are scarce. One neighbor called and said they had shot a deer with arrow and were tracking it in our direction. They found the downed deer and hauled it off.
Week 2
Neighboring property reports that they trapped a boar, a sow and three small pigs in their trap. Perhaps they got the culprits who have been tearing up the south slope. We shall see.
Deer population exploded to 9 does this week, but no bucks. Seems like hunting pressure was greater this year than it was last year.
Small band of turkeys moved through.
Do not see much evidence of raccoons or possums, but from the droppings around, they do seem to visit at night, even up on the back porch where they leave their calling card.
Coyote evidence this year is down considerably from last year. Not sure why, but the bordering ranches might be actively destroying them.
Week 3
Really dry again, having to water the wildlife tanks in front and back. Holding back on feeding kitchen vegetable scraps to the deer as the hog keeps rooting up the back yard.
Week 4
Routine for the deer seems to be 3 to 5 does in the back near the fenceline early in the morning, seldom at night.
Winter bird count: Cardinals, tufted titmice, Virginia warbler (new to us this year), sparrow, wren (not sure species), mocking bird, buzzard, pereque (call), Carolina wren, chickadee, phoebe. Noticeable short list of birds this winter.
Also noticeable absent this year are red fox, coyote, turkey, and mice.
Saturday, January 16, 2016
December 2015 Activity
Week 48
We hear several shots of deer hunters in the area, some to the north on the Ingram Ranch, some here in the community.
Season has ended for harvesting grass seed, so that ends a poor year for seed.
Removed two more very large prickly pear cactus plants.
Week 49
Sufficient water so that we no longer have to be concerned with keeping the two water troughs filled. The rain, plus the lower level of visits of animals allows the water to last longer.
Week 50
No activity on our part this week
Week 51
No activity this week.
Week 52
Still seeing some hog damage, so there must be more than one visitor to the west slope of these acres. Not every night, however, so that makes it more work to sit up for a good shot.
We slacked off on the sunflower seeds to the feeder, so the bird population really tapered off.
Seeing a bird in the yard that we have not seen before, but from all we can determine, it is not that rare for this area. Its probably a Virginia's warbler. Its small, warbler sized and has a red crowned head.
We hear several shots of deer hunters in the area, some to the north on the Ingram Ranch, some here in the community.
Season has ended for harvesting grass seed, so that ends a poor year for seed.
Removed two more very large prickly pear cactus plants.
Week 49
Sufficient water so that we no longer have to be concerned with keeping the two water troughs filled. The rain, plus the lower level of visits of animals allows the water to last longer.
Week 50
No activity on our part this week
Week 51
No activity this week.
Week 52
Still seeing some hog damage, so there must be more than one visitor to the west slope of these acres. Not every night, however, so that makes it more work to sit up for a good shot.
We slacked off on the sunflower seeds to the feeder, so the bird population really tapered off.
Seeing a bird in the yard that we have not seen before, but from all we can determine, it is not that rare for this area. Its probably a Virginia's warbler. Its small, warbler sized and has a red crowned head.
November 2015 Activity
Week 44
Deer population steady at 4 to 5 does. On an occasion of once per week or so, a rather large buck shows up with the does. On occasions, we see them cross the county road going south toward Purgatory Creek where it is pretty much a "no man's land".
Twice this week had a rather large group of turkeys move through the area.
Songbirds are dwindling down in numbers.
Mowed some more of the broomweed before its seeds are mature.
Cleared two tractor buckets full of prickly pear cactus.
Week 45
Hauled two tractor buckets of brush trimmings to the main brush pile in the west end. The brush pile, although it is settling due to decay and weight, still offers many places for small animals.
Grass seed production this year has been very poor. Last year I was harvesting by hand all the tops of the bluestem. and indian grass, but there is almost none this year.
A report on all the acorns planted inside the spread of the prickly pears, I find none that have sprouted.
The ten oak tree seedlings planted in a protected area, in spite of watering, have lost their leaves. The stems seem to be pliant yet, so maybe next spring they will respond and grow.
Week 46
Deer season has started, the does don't seem to mind matters and the buck has again made his appearance. We stopped feeding the table vegetable scraps because the deer seem to have enough feed in the area with the more rain we have had and the other deer feeders in operation. Plus, the kitchen vegetable scraps down in the deer yard may be contributing to the hog problem.
Cut a few more swaths of broom weed, making sure not to cut the grass that seems to want to form seed at this late time.
Week 47
Finally got one of the wild pigs, now lets see if the rooting damage stops.
Deer population seems to have dropped.
Ever since we have electrified the bird feeder, we no longer have any squirrels, the birds seem to appreciate the disappearance of the squirrels. If there is food present, there is no way to kill enough squirrels to drop their population to zero---don't even try.
Deer population steady at 4 to 5 does. On an occasion of once per week or so, a rather large buck shows up with the does. On occasions, we see them cross the county road going south toward Purgatory Creek where it is pretty much a "no man's land".
Twice this week had a rather large group of turkeys move through the area.
Songbirds are dwindling down in numbers.
Mowed some more of the broomweed before its seeds are mature.
Cleared two tractor buckets full of prickly pear cactus.
Week 45
Hauled two tractor buckets of brush trimmings to the main brush pile in the west end. The brush pile, although it is settling due to decay and weight, still offers many places for small animals.
Grass seed production this year has been very poor. Last year I was harvesting by hand all the tops of the bluestem. and indian grass, but there is almost none this year.
A report on all the acorns planted inside the spread of the prickly pears, I find none that have sprouted.
The ten oak tree seedlings planted in a protected area, in spite of watering, have lost their leaves. The stems seem to be pliant yet, so maybe next spring they will respond and grow.
Week 46
Deer season has started, the does don't seem to mind matters and the buck has again made his appearance. We stopped feeding the table vegetable scraps because the deer seem to have enough feed in the area with the more rain we have had and the other deer feeders in operation. Plus, the kitchen vegetable scraps down in the deer yard may be contributing to the hog problem.
Cut a few more swaths of broom weed, making sure not to cut the grass that seems to want to form seed at this late time.
Week 47
Finally got one of the wild pigs, now lets see if the rooting damage stops.
Deer population seems to have dropped.
Ever since we have electrified the bird feeder, we no longer have any squirrels, the birds seem to appreciate the disappearance of the squirrels. If there is food present, there is no way to kill enough squirrels to drop their population to zero---don't even try.
Monday, October 5, 2015
October 2015 Activity
Week 40
Two deer browsing in the back yard, a few songbirds back after refilling the feeder. There has been no rain for about a month (since September 11-- now October 9). The deer are still up on the terrace eating the last bit of tomatoe plant leaves.
Providing sweet feed and corn, plus kitchen vegetable trimmings on an every other day basis.
20 or so turkeys walked through the back yard.
Week 41
Turkeys are back again, nice sized flock with healthy looking birds. We saw a fawn today, no spots, but perhaps the smallest fawn seen at this time of the year since we have been observing deer. It was less than half the size of a normal doe.
Still no rain. Still hot at 90 degrees every day.
Added two front end loaders of brush to the pile nearest the roadway.
Mowed about 5 acres of backyard to cut the broomweed to prevent reseeding. It was cut high to cut the broomweed, but not damage the tops of native grasses.
Scraped out of the ground several large cactus plants, reminding me that this fall we need to take big time action to rid parts of the property of small cactus growth.
Week 42
Still hot, still dry. Small bird population is beginning to shift to the fall/winter bird species. Many of the cardinals have moved on now that their brood has matured.
So far this fall, not as many deer have been observed. Concluded, though that deer counts don't mean a lot since there are others within a mile that feed the deer and so have pulled them away from here.
Week 43
Seems as if we are having a big problem with either one or two feral hogs tearing up the backyard. Had another shot at the big black beast the other morning with buckshot (no rifle rule here) but did not bother him as the distance was too great.
Not sure mentioned in an earlier post, but along in August last a family of mother and four feral cats moved into the area and stayed about a day. They, all but one runt cat, moved on to a neighboring ranch where they stayed for awhile until they were sent away to the animal control unit. The runt stayed with us and is now a house cat, no longer roaming the area.
Two deer browsing in the back yard, a few songbirds back after refilling the feeder. There has been no rain for about a month (since September 11-- now October 9). The deer are still up on the terrace eating the last bit of tomatoe plant leaves.
Providing sweet feed and corn, plus kitchen vegetable trimmings on an every other day basis.
20 or so turkeys walked through the back yard.
Week 41
Turkeys are back again, nice sized flock with healthy looking birds. We saw a fawn today, no spots, but perhaps the smallest fawn seen at this time of the year since we have been observing deer. It was less than half the size of a normal doe.
Still no rain. Still hot at 90 degrees every day.
Added two front end loaders of brush to the pile nearest the roadway.
Mowed about 5 acres of backyard to cut the broomweed to prevent reseeding. It was cut high to cut the broomweed, but not damage the tops of native grasses.
Scraped out of the ground several large cactus plants, reminding me that this fall we need to take big time action to rid parts of the property of small cactus growth.
Week 42
Still hot, still dry. Small bird population is beginning to shift to the fall/winter bird species. Many of the cardinals have moved on now that their brood has matured.
So far this fall, not as many deer have been observed. Concluded, though that deer counts don't mean a lot since there are others within a mile that feed the deer and so have pulled them away from here.
Week 43
Seems as if we are having a big problem with either one or two feral hogs tearing up the backyard. Had another shot at the big black beast the other morning with buckshot (no rifle rule here) but did not bother him as the distance was too great.
Not sure mentioned in an earlier post, but along in August last a family of mother and four feral cats moved into the area and stayed about a day. They, all but one runt cat, moved on to a neighboring ranch where they stayed for awhile until they were sent away to the animal control unit. The runt stayed with us and is now a house cat, no longer roaming the area.
September 2015 Activity
Week 35
This is the last week we have before leaving the ranch for some two weeks. Checklist completed, water troughs filled, feeders full, deer yard supplied with two days feed (no need to provide more, they just eat it all up in one day)
Week 36, 37, 38
Out
(Neighbor reported 4 inches of rain to us by email---great!)
Week 39
The deer and other wildlife seem to have given up dependence on me as there is nothing stirring. All the cardinals have disappeared, which is noteworthy as there are usually lots of them.
This is the last week we have before leaving the ranch for some two weeks. Checklist completed, water troughs filled, feeders full, deer yard supplied with two days feed (no need to provide more, they just eat it all up in one day)
Week 36, 37, 38
Out
(Neighbor reported 4 inches of rain to us by email---great!)
Week 39
The deer and other wildlife seem to have given up dependence on me as there is nothing stirring. All the cardinals have disappeared, which is noteworthy as there are usually lots of them.
Saturday, August 15, 2015
August 2015 Activity
Week 31
Still no rain, feeding birds and providing water via the front tank and birdbaths. Water in the bird baths disappears each night. Mostly deer are drinking it dry at night.
Aside from the cottontail rabbit, essentially no sighting of any wildlife--perhaps a deer or two every four or five days.
With these drought conditions and the mid-day temperature of 103 degrees, here is when it is important to have natural cover, dense shaded areas where the sun seldom shines, for wildlife to hunker down on the ground- the coolest spot for them to find until nighttime comes again. Undercutting brush eliminates all this important daytime cover. If one does not have natural heavy brush near the ground, the only alternative is to create it via half cut cedars and carefully stacked brush piles---brush piles that have a lot of open areas underneath.
Hooray, the bobwhite quail are still here.
Week 32
Rain today, the 15th of August-- brief shower in the morning, perhaps .50 inches.
Resumed feeding kitchen greens to the deer in the far back feedlot area. The deer hang so closely to this nightly feeding that they must be waiting for fresh food every night.
Week 33
The metal tub under the eave in the front is turning out to be popular with the birds and the Leopard Frogs during this dry weather. Especially, they both like the "beach" provided by the 2x6 on a slant into the water. Here are two photos, one of birds, one of frogs:
Week 34
Very dry on these specific acres, maybe more droughty than at the worst of two years ago.
Feeding the deer corn, sweet feed and kitchen vegetable scraps. The deer were selective on the vegetable scraps they ate last year, but this year, they eat everything provided.
Still no rain, feeding birds and providing water via the front tank and birdbaths. Water in the bird baths disappears each night. Mostly deer are drinking it dry at night.
Aside from the cottontail rabbit, essentially no sighting of any wildlife--perhaps a deer or two every four or five days.
With these drought conditions and the mid-day temperature of 103 degrees, here is when it is important to have natural cover, dense shaded areas where the sun seldom shines, for wildlife to hunker down on the ground- the coolest spot for them to find until nighttime comes again. Undercutting brush eliminates all this important daytime cover. If one does not have natural heavy brush near the ground, the only alternative is to create it via half cut cedars and carefully stacked brush piles---brush piles that have a lot of open areas underneath.
Hooray, the bobwhite quail are still here.
Week 32
Rain today, the 15th of August-- brief shower in the morning, perhaps .50 inches.
Resumed feeding kitchen greens to the deer in the far back feedlot area. The deer hang so closely to this nightly feeding that they must be waiting for fresh food every night.
Week 33
The metal tub under the eave in the front is turning out to be popular with the birds and the Leopard Frogs during this dry weather. Especially, they both like the "beach" provided by the 2x6 on a slant into the water. Here are two photos, one of birds, one of frogs:
Very dry on these specific acres, maybe more droughty than at the worst of two years ago.
Feeding the deer corn, sweet feed and kitchen vegetable scraps. The deer were selective on the vegetable scraps they ate last year, but this year, they eat everything provided.
Thursday, July 9, 2015
July 2015 Activity
Week 27
In spite of showers, the ground is still dry. Not critical as green growth still occurring.
Saw the first fawn of the year, not here, but on adjacent land maybe a mile away. It was spotted yet and very small, seems as if it is late.
Six point buck observed today, horns all in velvet yet.
Lone turkey stalking the back yesterday---Still, not as many turkeys this year as years before.
No evidence of new hog damage now that the ground on this tract is hardening up from lack of rain. Am still on the lookout though.
Week 28
No rain and the condition is getting tight for water supplies. Keeping the two troughs filled with water, but the roaming animals seem to like the bird bath water best as they drain these each night.
No new evidence of the hog, perhaps the ground is too tough for rooting now that the soil is so dry.
Occasionally spotting the 8 point buck in the back, horns still in velvet.
Observed for the first time this year a fawn--yay!
Turkeys, roadrunners, owls all somewhat scarce at this time.
Cottontail rabbit greets me on the driveway every morning. Never afraid of me approaching.
Skunk walked through the back on two occasions this last week, almost at darkness.
Snakes are scarce this year.
Week 29
No rain, its starting to be critical again for the animals and plants. Its now become a daily routine to keep the bird bath full and the drinking tubs filled with water. I haven't put the game cameral out, but I suspect that the birdbaths and tubs are visited by a variety of animals during the night. I will place the game camera near a birdbath tonight, and then rotate it to the tub behind the big water tank.
Frogs have taken up residence in the tank under the eave, and disappear quickly when the roadrunner appears for its nightly drink.
Still no snakes, being the time of the year when they are pretty much holed up during the day and only prowl at night for food and water.
Week 30
Still no rain. Worst ground moisture condition since start of records on this land six years ago. Worst before was two years ago when the frost week was badly wilted, now the frost weed are dying.
Only wildlife activity seems to be at the watering trough in front and the bird baths---all water centered.
In spite of showers, the ground is still dry. Not critical as green growth still occurring.
Saw the first fawn of the year, not here, but on adjacent land maybe a mile away. It was spotted yet and very small, seems as if it is late.
Six point buck observed today, horns all in velvet yet.
Lone turkey stalking the back yesterday---Still, not as many turkeys this year as years before.
No evidence of new hog damage now that the ground on this tract is hardening up from lack of rain. Am still on the lookout though.
Week 28
No rain and the condition is getting tight for water supplies. Keeping the two troughs filled with water, but the roaming animals seem to like the bird bath water best as they drain these each night.
No new evidence of the hog, perhaps the ground is too tough for rooting now that the soil is so dry.
Occasionally spotting the 8 point buck in the back, horns still in velvet.
Observed for the first time this year a fawn--yay!
Turkeys, roadrunners, owls all somewhat scarce at this time.
Cottontail rabbit greets me on the driveway every morning. Never afraid of me approaching.
Skunk walked through the back on two occasions this last week, almost at darkness.
Snakes are scarce this year.
Week 29
No rain, its starting to be critical again for the animals and plants. Its now become a daily routine to keep the bird bath full and the drinking tubs filled with water. I haven't put the game cameral out, but I suspect that the birdbaths and tubs are visited by a variety of animals during the night. I will place the game camera near a birdbath tonight, and then rotate it to the tub behind the big water tank.
Frogs have taken up residence in the tank under the eave, and disappear quickly when the roadrunner appears for its nightly drink.
Still no snakes, being the time of the year when they are pretty much holed up during the day and only prowl at night for food and water.
Week 30
Still no rain. Worst ground moisture condition since start of records on this land six years ago. Worst before was two years ago when the frost week was badly wilted, now the frost weed are dying.
Only wildlife activity seems to be at the watering trough in front and the bird baths---all water centered.
Sunday, June 21, 2015
June 2015 Activity
Week 22
Rain, good for everything that grows, but maybe enough for now
Week 23
Only feeding is the sunflower seeds in the electric feeder. Deer and all others are self sufficient.
Modest crop of turkeys this year, perhaps the excessive rain affected the broods
Treated 43 mounds of fireants. They are especially busy with all this rain.
Its turning out that the metal bin under the eave in the front is proving attractive to wildlife. It appears that small wildlife is using it for drinking, and birds especially like the 2 x 6 board on a slant that serves as a bird beach.
Week 24
Oh no, hog damage in the downhill side. Discovered 4 rather large uprootings that were quite fresh.
Spotted the big black lone hog leaving the edge of the property one late evening. Will begin to post a watch for it.
Spotted the hog again one late evening and blasted away at it with No. 1 Buckshot (2 rounds), but didn't seem to affect his rather rapid race to security. Will continue to watch for more action. Filled in the holes dug to prevent further erosion.
No sightings the last three days.
Quail calls still prevalent. It appears this species had a good spring brood
No evidence of purple martins, and the barn swallows attempted nest building, but abandoned the effort.
A good crop of wrens in the two birdhouses under the eaves. Perhaps as many as 4 broods this spring.
Week 25
Still seeing some new hog damage, but never spotted in the act.
Quail still around, but have seen only one covey.
Turkeys seem to be doing well, but have not seen one fawn this spring and early summer.
Added more brush to brush piles in the front and the back. The many rains have really settled the brushpiles and compacted them---not good for wildlife.
Grey Fox population seems to be good; cotton tail rabbits seem to come and go, not sure if the foxes are harvesting them or the owls.
Week 26
Smattering of rain, but it appears to be getting a bit dry again. Keeping water supplies up and available. No feeding, the deer feed lot is now overgrown and the deer do not hang around like they used to do. That's good, the deer need to remain wild.
Six of the six planted oak seedlings, under the protection of wire, are all growing well. These are the Oak variations that landscapers use, and which appear to be productive acorn bearers.
Painted buntings are still here, they usually are one of the earliest to migrate away.
Rain, good for everything that grows, but maybe enough for now
Week 23
Only feeding is the sunflower seeds in the electric feeder. Deer and all others are self sufficient.
Modest crop of turkeys this year, perhaps the excessive rain affected the broods
Treated 43 mounds of fireants. They are especially busy with all this rain.
Its turning out that the metal bin under the eave in the front is proving attractive to wildlife. It appears that small wildlife is using it for drinking, and birds especially like the 2 x 6 board on a slant that serves as a bird beach.
Week 24
Oh no, hog damage in the downhill side. Discovered 4 rather large uprootings that were quite fresh.
Spotted the big black lone hog leaving the edge of the property one late evening. Will begin to post a watch for it.
Spotted the hog again one late evening and blasted away at it with No. 1 Buckshot (2 rounds), but didn't seem to affect his rather rapid race to security. Will continue to watch for more action. Filled in the holes dug to prevent further erosion.
No sightings the last three days.
Quail calls still prevalent. It appears this species had a good spring brood
No evidence of purple martins, and the barn swallows attempted nest building, but abandoned the effort.
A good crop of wrens in the two birdhouses under the eaves. Perhaps as many as 4 broods this spring.
Week 25
Still seeing some new hog damage, but never spotted in the act.
Quail still around, but have seen only one covey.
Turkeys seem to be doing well, but have not seen one fawn this spring and early summer.
Added more brush to brush piles in the front and the back. The many rains have really settled the brushpiles and compacted them---not good for wildlife.
Grey Fox population seems to be good; cotton tail rabbits seem to come and go, not sure if the foxes are harvesting them or the owls.
Week 26
Smattering of rain, but it appears to be getting a bit dry again. Keeping water supplies up and available. No feeding, the deer feed lot is now overgrown and the deer do not hang around like they used to do. That's good, the deer need to remain wild.
Six of the six planted oak seedlings, under the protection of wire, are all growing well. These are the Oak variations that landscapers use, and which appear to be productive acorn bearers.
Painted buntings are still here, they usually are one of the earliest to migrate away.
Sunday, May 10, 2015
Semi-Annual Bird Species Count
Birds observed in 2015 to this date (May 10)
- Barn Owl
- Grackle
- Cowbird
- Cardinal
- Mourning Dove
- Bobwhite Quail
- Carolina Wren
- Barn Swallow
- Ruby Throated Hummingbird
- Crow
- Vulture
- Cara Cara
- Roadrunner
- Scrub Jay
- Painted Bunting
- Red Tailed Hawk
- Scissor Tailed Flycatcher
- House Finch
- English Sparrow
- Lesser Goldfinch
- Whitewing Dove
- Peruque
- Bluebird
- Summer Tanager
- Mocking Bird
- Chicadee
- Rio Grande Turkey
- Cuckoo
- Raven
- Titmouse
May 2015 Activity
Week 18 All is stable and quiet this week.
Week 19 Rain, rain, not much volume, but everyday is rainy. Good for the soil to get some deep-down moisture built up for a change.
Deer have been scarce at dusk and early morning, but tracks prove they are on the prowl all night long. Many spots in the long grass where they have bedded down for the night.
We will begin to work on the areas of excessive cactus growth, with the tractor, as soon as the ground dries out a bit.
Quail calls still prevalent in all directions from the house.
Week 20 More rain, all is quiet
Week 21 More rain, ground wet. Mowed track through the center of the south side to provide a place to walk--the needle grass is just too tough to walk through.
Hauled two front end loaders full of brush to brushpile no. 2. One of the loads was from uprooted prickly pear cactus that was growing too thickly in one area.
Quail still here. Wrens have fledged.
We had to electric fence the Mexican Plum tree to keep the deer from browsing the terminal buds. Most often, we see just three does. We have not seen any fawns yet.
Week 19 Rain, rain, not much volume, but everyday is rainy. Good for the soil to get some deep-down moisture built up for a change.
Deer have been scarce at dusk and early morning, but tracks prove they are on the prowl all night long. Many spots in the long grass where they have bedded down for the night.
We will begin to work on the areas of excessive cactus growth, with the tractor, as soon as the ground dries out a bit.
Quail calls still prevalent in all directions from the house.
Week 20 More rain, all is quiet
Week 21 More rain, ground wet. Mowed track through the center of the south side to provide a place to walk--the needle grass is just too tough to walk through.
Hauled two front end loaders full of brush to brushpile no. 2. One of the loads was from uprooted prickly pear cactus that was growing too thickly in one area.
Quail still here. Wrens have fledged.
We had to electric fence the Mexican Plum tree to keep the deer from browsing the terminal buds. Most often, we see just three does. We have not seen any fawns yet.
Friday, April 10, 2015
April 2015 Activity
Week 13 Placed one front end loader full of brush on the front brush pile.
No evidence of feral hogs on this property, but neighboring properties are experiencing some damage to plantings.
Week 14 We seem to have heard the painted bunting, but have not seen it. The barn swallows are back in the same nest built last year.
No reports of quail yet.
Four oaks are up and leafed out. These are the monterrey-looking oaks that produce a lot of acorns.
Week 15 Yes, did hear the Painted Bunting, now showing up at the water trough in front.
And, yes, quail are back in good strength according to their calls from different directions at the same time, so perhaps have several nesting pairs.
Water situation looking good, so none of the wildlife need any special attention regarding water or food, as the rains are producing edible forbs in good supply.
Week 16 The Wildlife Plan for the next five years has been approved by the Central Appraisal District. There were no big changes made to the Plan submitted 5 years ago. New plan puts a bit more emphasis on native grasses, clearing some prickly pear where it is getting to dominant, and continued building brush piles.
Since deer supplemental feeding has stopped for the year, deer are less visible, which is good--they need to stay wild.
Week 17 All is quiet except for the grass which is growing like wildfire. This is definitely the best spring grass growth we have had since we started the wildlife plan 6 years ago. Three factors are important here: Timed mowing to make sure seed has matured, ample rain, no cattle grazing on the front half. It is too early to check for results of hand sewing of the on-site collected native summer grasses in the previous two years.
No evidence of feral hogs on this property, but neighboring properties are experiencing some damage to plantings.
Week 14 We seem to have heard the painted bunting, but have not seen it. The barn swallows are back in the same nest built last year.
No reports of quail yet.
Four oaks are up and leafed out. These are the monterrey-looking oaks that produce a lot of acorns.
Week 15 Yes, did hear the Painted Bunting, now showing up at the water trough in front.
And, yes, quail are back in good strength according to their calls from different directions at the same time, so perhaps have several nesting pairs.
Water situation looking good, so none of the wildlife need any special attention regarding water or food, as the rains are producing edible forbs in good supply.
Week 16 The Wildlife Plan for the next five years has been approved by the Central Appraisal District. There were no big changes made to the Plan submitted 5 years ago. New plan puts a bit more emphasis on native grasses, clearing some prickly pear where it is getting to dominant, and continued building brush piles.
Since deer supplemental feeding has stopped for the year, deer are less visible, which is good--they need to stay wild.
Week 17 All is quiet except for the grass which is growing like wildfire. This is definitely the best spring grass growth we have had since we started the wildlife plan 6 years ago. Three factors are important here: Timed mowing to make sure seed has matured, ample rain, no cattle grazing on the front half. It is too early to check for results of hand sewing of the on-site collected native summer grasses in the previous two years.
Sunday, March 8, 2015
March 2015 Activity
Week 9 Time has come to cut way back on supplemental food. All wildlife, especially deer are now able to forage for themselves---any more food just makes them tame. We can not do that.
Seems like there has been a big increase in deer population. Of course it is difficult to make that conclusion because the deer from surrounding areas may just be visiting more often. Next door at Summer Mountain, many residents feed deer all year long. It shows the effect with the tame natureof the deer and the large population there.
Field mice seem to be prevalent this year in the grass out in the fields. Good food for the owls.
Purple martin house is up, but no activity.
Getting short on ground water again, but the forecast for today (8th) is promising.
Inspected the brush pile created by the half cut dead juniper from last year. This is a rather open brush pile and the grass has grown up in it so that it really provides good habitat.
Two more front end loader loads to the brush pile in the front left corner.
We heard a red tailed hawk this week- with its shrill call.
An oriole was at the bird feeder. Put out a half grapefruit to see if that attracts them.
We have seven oak trees (of unknown species) starting from acorns. They too are looking for warmer weather. When warmer weather comes, they will be transplanted inside cages. These acorns came from some trees alongside Hwy 123 in the city. We were attracted to these trees due to their huge production of acorns---good food for wildlife.
Week 10 Rainwater troughs are all full and seem to be used very little by wildlife--except the birds as they always use the nearby supplies of water.
New $20.00 bag of sunflower seeds. Birds at the feeder seem to be mostly cardinals, but some finches as well. Spotty observation of deer.
Observed big two stripe skunk in mid day. It seemed healthy and rambled off to the north.
Week 11 Planted 5 oak trees of the "unknown" species--the ones from acorns from planted trees alongside Hwy 123. Will continue try to identify them. In all places where these small plants were placed, they now have cages over to protect them from deer browse.
Water situation in good shape.
Added two front end loaders full of brush to the front brush pile. Have not yet started the selective prickly pear cleanup.
Still have not heard any quail calls and have not seen any birds since those seen back a month ago.
Week 12 Half grapefruit disappeared, not sure to where. Doe cautiously appears near 6 pm to the north side in a loitering mode--Must have a fawn stashed away somewhere nearby. Supplemental food has been deleted. Deer observations are way down as a result.
The call of the painted bunting was heard (perhaps), but did not observe.
Seems like there has been a big increase in deer population. Of course it is difficult to make that conclusion because the deer from surrounding areas may just be visiting more often. Next door at Summer Mountain, many residents feed deer all year long. It shows the effect with the tame natureof the deer and the large population there.
Field mice seem to be prevalent this year in the grass out in the fields. Good food for the owls.
Purple martin house is up, but no activity.
Getting short on ground water again, but the forecast for today (8th) is promising.
Inspected the brush pile created by the half cut dead juniper from last year. This is a rather open brush pile and the grass has grown up in it so that it really provides good habitat.
Two more front end loader loads to the brush pile in the front left corner.
We heard a red tailed hawk this week- with its shrill call.
An oriole was at the bird feeder. Put out a half grapefruit to see if that attracts them.
We have seven oak trees (of unknown species) starting from acorns. They too are looking for warmer weather. When warmer weather comes, they will be transplanted inside cages. These acorns came from some trees alongside Hwy 123 in the city. We were attracted to these trees due to their huge production of acorns---good food for wildlife.
Week 10 Rainwater troughs are all full and seem to be used very little by wildlife--except the birds as they always use the nearby supplies of water.
New $20.00 bag of sunflower seeds. Birds at the feeder seem to be mostly cardinals, but some finches as well. Spotty observation of deer.
Observed big two stripe skunk in mid day. It seemed healthy and rambled off to the north.
Week 11 Planted 5 oak trees of the "unknown" species--the ones from acorns from planted trees alongside Hwy 123. Will continue try to identify them. In all places where these small plants were placed, they now have cages over to protect them from deer browse.
Water situation in good shape.
Added two front end loaders full of brush to the front brush pile. Have not yet started the selective prickly pear cleanup.
Still have not heard any quail calls and have not seen any birds since those seen back a month ago.
Week 12 Half grapefruit disappeared, not sure to where. Doe cautiously appears near 6 pm to the north side in a loitering mode--Must have a fawn stashed away somewhere nearby. Supplemental food has been deleted. Deer observations are way down as a result.
The call of the painted bunting was heard (perhaps), but did not observe.
Saturday, February 7, 2015
February 2015 Activity
Week 5 Steady routine of reduced corn and sweet feed, plus vegetable scraps to the deer yard. Those attending range from 3 does to 6 does. Added to the brush pile no. 2 in the back field, placing brush and cactus cleanup such that there is a lot of internal space for habitat.
No reply from TP &W on the question of whether to mow last years dead grass or let it stand for the quail. Disappointed in no response.
Week 6 Cleaned and erected the purple martin house this week. Recall that no purple martins have taken up residence since this house was put up two years ago.
Decided to limit the barn swallows to one nest---if this is possible--due to their aggressive nature regarding the smaller birds, such as the wrens. Moved the wrenhouse away from the barnswallow nest on the house wall.
Usual routine of feed at the deer yard. Point to note, saw two bucks with the antlers still intact. Must be getting close to antlers falling off.
Added more brush to brush pile no.2. We will put a few more cactus on this pile, then move to another site for adding another brush pile.
Week 7 Good news: We encountered a state game warden at the SMCISD STEM fair and asked the question about quail habitat for our land, asking him the question of mowing. He did not know the answer but buttonholed a biology professor from TSU who happened to be nearby. He was knowledgeable and gave us all we need to know about quail on this land. Four key points: (1) Don't mow if there is room for the birds to run along the ground without mowing (yes there is). (2) Provide brush piles with loose structure for nesting (yes there are, and will build more) (3) Don't knock down old, loose structure prickly pear cactus as they provide nesting sites. (good advice as we were about to take many of them down). (4) Don't bother to feed the quail purchased seed or commercial feed as studies have shown no effect on quail nesting success or population growth.
Week 8 Feed to the deer yard pulled in 10 does tonight. Most ever. I guess that is because all the hunters have stopped feeding for the season and this is now the only welfare feeding spot. One buck with antlers.
Getting dry again, need some rain.
Built a level platform for the phoebe to see if that helps them build a nest in their favorite spot by the garage.
Planted a huge number of acorns (half shumardi and other have liveoak) in various protected places. We did this last year with no noticable results, but maybe with the right rainfall, it will be successful this spring.
No reply from TP &W on the question of whether to mow last years dead grass or let it stand for the quail. Disappointed in no response.
Week 6 Cleaned and erected the purple martin house this week. Recall that no purple martins have taken up residence since this house was put up two years ago.
Decided to limit the barn swallows to one nest---if this is possible--due to their aggressive nature regarding the smaller birds, such as the wrens. Moved the wrenhouse away from the barnswallow nest on the house wall.
Usual routine of feed at the deer yard. Point to note, saw two bucks with the antlers still intact. Must be getting close to antlers falling off.
Added more brush to brush pile no.2. We will put a few more cactus on this pile, then move to another site for adding another brush pile.
Week 7 Good news: We encountered a state game warden at the SMCISD STEM fair and asked the question about quail habitat for our land, asking him the question of mowing. He did not know the answer but buttonholed a biology professor from TSU who happened to be nearby. He was knowledgeable and gave us all we need to know about quail on this land. Four key points: (1) Don't mow if there is room for the birds to run along the ground without mowing (yes there is). (2) Provide brush piles with loose structure for nesting (yes there are, and will build more) (3) Don't knock down old, loose structure prickly pear cactus as they provide nesting sites. (good advice as we were about to take many of them down). (4) Don't bother to feed the quail purchased seed or commercial feed as studies have shown no effect on quail nesting success or population growth.
Week 8 Feed to the deer yard pulled in 10 does tonight. Most ever. I guess that is because all the hunters have stopped feeding for the season and this is now the only welfare feeding spot. One buck with antlers.
Getting dry again, need some rain.
Built a level platform for the phoebe to see if that helps them build a nest in their favorite spot by the garage.
Planted a huge number of acorns (half shumardi and other have liveoak) in various protected places. We did this last year with no noticable results, but maybe with the right rainfall, it will be successful this spring.
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
January 2015 Activity
Week 1 Seems as if the harvest of deer is quite large this year. None on this tract, but know of at least 10 bucks killed within half mile radius of this location. Wildlife in general is in good shape this year, opposum, raccoon, field mice, (squirrel population is down since I rigged the bird feeder with an electric fence charger), fox (havent seen any, but have heard them bark, coyotes (needed to keep the piglets under control).
Week 2 Corn and vegetable scraps in the feed lot. Need to think about cutting back, getting ready for spring. Plenty of water, as the water troughs hardly have any use at this time.
Winter bird population is at a low point. Hardly see any birds except a few cardinals and lots of mockingbirds (they never used to stay here all year, but now do).
Week 3 Deer spotted were the usual 3-5 does, but did see two bucks which means they escaped the hunting season. No coyotes heard. A few, but not many, red tailed hawks showing up.
Corn and sweet feed to the deer lot on three of the five days.
Feral cat seems to show up about once per week.
Week 4 Person in charge of the community hog trap says he has caught about ten hogs so far this new year. For some reason, we never see any sign of hogs here--but on the alert nevertheless.
Vegetable scraps and corn to the feed lot on two days this week.
Reports of night hunting of hogs on the adjacent ranch to the north. From the gunfire, sounds like they had lots of targets. Planning on setting a day aside for bird count.
Week 2 Corn and vegetable scraps in the feed lot. Need to think about cutting back, getting ready for spring. Plenty of water, as the water troughs hardly have any use at this time.
Winter bird population is at a low point. Hardly see any birds except a few cardinals and lots of mockingbirds (they never used to stay here all year, but now do).
Week 3 Deer spotted were the usual 3-5 does, but did see two bucks which means they escaped the hunting season. No coyotes heard. A few, but not many, red tailed hawks showing up.
Corn and sweet feed to the deer lot on three of the five days.
Feral cat seems to show up about once per week.
Week 4 Person in charge of the community hog trap says he has caught about ten hogs so far this new year. For some reason, we never see any sign of hogs here--but on the alert nevertheless.
Vegetable scraps and corn to the feed lot on two days this week.
Reports of night hunting of hogs on the adjacent ranch to the north. From the gunfire, sounds like they had lots of targets. Planning on setting a day aside for bird count.
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