Raccoon War

Once again the raccoon war continues.  It managed to reach the
hummingbird feeder and yanked it down for spite.  I was told this
racoon was a large male.  I didn't ask my partner how one could
tell male from female.  I really didn't want to know; however, I
did note that the males had a nasty attitude whereas the females
did not--unless they had their babies with them.

I didn't see the "black chinned" hummer today--of course now
I am doubting the black chinned part and have begun to think
ir is a Lucifer, a really rare one, because of the amount of purple
I saw on it and the hunched way it sat and it did have a notched
tail.  Unlike the ruby throats, this hummer was shy and ranged
far and wide searching for food..

The chickens continue to fledge--soon to go outside.  On warm
days, they stay outside all day.  If one stops and looks at you, all
eight do the same.  I can tell them it is time for them to sleep and to
quieten down--and they get quiet.  I didn't know chickens were
trainable!

Still working on the retaining wall.  It's a tough project.  Maybe,
weather permitting, it will be done today.

All for now--Kate