Fur, Feathers, and Affection - UPDATE December 15, 2023
Red Fox
Foxes are known for their long guard hairs that our red fox seemed to be showing off as he posed for this picture. Then a hairy woodpecker that is named for its hairy white feathers, especially on the back, did the same. Hairy Woodpecker female
Hairy woodpecker female
Now in this time where there are no black bears around to stir one’s curiosity about their minds, black ravens are filling in. This pair that is probably mated for life showed mutual affection as they caressed and preened each other with their bills, often closing their nictitating membranes to protect their eyes as this male is doing as he also fully raises his eyebrow feathers. Raven Pair
Raven pair
These birds that are sometimes thought of as symbols of death for their scavenging habits are to others symbols of loyalty, dedication, and love. Out the widow here, ravens are the most expressive in showing their desire to sit by their mates and touch bills together. Males also show dedication by bringing food to their lifelong mates who are incubating the pair’s eggs in the cold weather that goes with early nesting.
Wolf
Wolf
Fisher
Fisher
On another topic, a red crossbill showed up here for the first sighting I’ve had since May 3, 1999. Red Crossbill male
Red crossbill male
Across the lake, a wolf and a fisher put in brief appearances along the shore, but the biggest excitement is when the red fox comes by to eat some food and bury more for another time, demonstrating trust and expectations from his experience.
Thank you for all you do.
Lynn Rogers, Biologist, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Cente