The Photo Bin - May 2011

May 6th: Save 15%...

This month's trio of odd shots could be called the Backyard Creature Collection - except that the first two were actually taken in the front. There's always something interesting going on around here.

We found the five-lined skink, above, tucked into a deteriorating tree stump just off the front porch on what was perhaps the final cool spring morning - so cool that the little guy was sluggish enough to let me handle him. As he warmed in my hand he quickly considered his position and bolted back to his hiding place. We appreciated capturing this cameo.

May 21st: See Ya Again in Thirteen Years

For the past several weeks, our woods have been ringing with a sound that resembles the descent of the mother ship in a bad B-grade science fiction flick. At it's peak you could not hold a conversation without raising your voice a few decibels. The sound has been produced by the above bug - he and a few million of his cicada friends. Magicicada Brood XIX - the thirteen year cicada - and they are everywhere. Estimates range from 100,000 to 1 million bugs per acre, so here in the 900 Acre Wood that's a lot of noisy critters. Very cool, but very annoying after the first few weeks. Oh well, I guess it can be endured once every thirteen years.

May 4th: FEED ME!!!

And finally, a poor shot, technically, but an interesting look into the bluebird house. These guys have since departed and a new nest is in the works by a second pair. It's always fun to see the bluebirds around, though I tire of them fighting their reflections in my truck's windows and pooping on the doors. Silly birds.

So, another Photo Bin's in the books. I hope you enjoyed yet another glimpse into my world. It's never, ever dull.