Gardening, caterpillars, frogs, rural delights.

I worked in the forest for several hours today. My little black furry twins were good for moral support. They were fascinated with the sticks and stones I was throwing about.

A tree had to be brought down, one that will surely fall in the next storm. A dead cedar, it isn't good on a walking path! The kittens similarly helped. I chased them away.

Weather began to change. Hauled in my axe, saws, put away the tractor that was dragging the rocks out of the bush, and decided to garden awhile. Noticed animal poo on the table under the table umbrella.

Oh, boy, more poo photos for Jofee!


Opened said umbrella. Lovely brown bat rubbing bleary eyes, swore at me and flew into said forest. It was a beautiful flight, lovely translucent wings flapping it to safety.

bat house; bat

We have two bat houses, as well as many trees with holes.

What's with this?
Was it out late at the bar, forget to save money for cab fare home?
Everyone left before s/he knew it?

Anyway, there are lots of little friends in the forest.

In an update: I didn't take the time yesterday to pursue the identity of the caterpillar.
I have since done so. The above link is a great one. You can search by colours, location, hairy or not!
My caterpillar seems to be this one: but I will look again!
Trichordestra legitima Striped Garden Caterpillar


Nope! No red stripes...from chattnaturecenter.org Henning Von Schmeling
The final word: The caterpillar is Cucculia alfarata, camphorweed moth, feeds on, you guessed it, camphorweed, Heterotheca subaxillaris. Did not know they are found that far north. See them a lot down here in the south and further west.