The two I refer to as the 'twins'. These are the two very tiny but scrappy little raccoons that suddenly appeared outside the Retreat last summer - without a mom! Later they joined a slightly older group of youngsters that appeared almost very night. Oddly enough, though much smaller than the others they were accepted as part of the group. The smallest one (on the right in this photo) was actually very dominant of the whole gang. the small one is also the most inquisitive and seems to be quite willing to become friends with me. (And so far ONLY me). The other larger chappie is actually quite timid.I have no idea of their sex. Time to give them names, I think.

I think this is the mother raccoon I met just over a year ago. She has been visiting the Retreat almost every day this year. Lady is still very cautious, but will take treats from my hand now. Hopefully she will show off her new kits as soon as they are able to go out.

Little Red arrives for Christmas Dinner

Winter Arrives

The Retreat is surrounded by christmas card scenes. 

Just waiting her turn, momma would be proud.  (Yea, right!  GRIN).

All ready to come right on in to see what treats may be given. 

One of the three friendly kits - almost full grown by now.  What a happy face!

Swift water, cool and clear!

The Color of Fall

Big Red as the Retreat lookout!

August Skies

Little Red

Wow, can this guy hop!

Lots of friendly chipmunks here

Two of three racoon kits - regular visitors

Momma raccoon

We have hills - and forest.

Both wild and cultivated

You again?

Shallow near the shore line

The Supermoon - May 5th.

We have moved - and in the process of unpacking.  What a job.  The 'Retreat' has been relocated though it will be some time before the cameras are ready and running.  Nights are still cold, but the last few days have been sunny and reasonably warm.  There are lots of birds returning to th area - including at least one very big hawk.  Milady is sure she saw what may have been a wolf just the other evening.  No sign of any raccoons yet, though I'm told they are around.  Yes to the chipmunks, but I have not seen any squirrels yet.

Looking for his girlfriend?

I met my first friend

Sunrise over the mountain

So silent too!

April in the mountains

Up just before dawn, and what do I see?  I arrived at the new house the night before to check out things before renovations started. Snow I was not expecting, though,of course, it was no surprise. The beauty and the fresh air was! 

A New Path

I'm surrounded by boxes! In less than a month the Retreat will be moving to it's new loation. I can only wonder what creatures may come to visit. We will be far away from traffic noise, low flying aircraft and heavy freight trains. It's bound to be quite an experience. Hopefully both still and video cameras will be set up and running in short order. ATB!