Curious And Cautious Racoon

"Curious And Cautious"

This guy was enjoying his snack out of one of the big trash cans in the park while we were eating at a picnic bench close by. As soon as we got up to throw our empty bags away he got startled but I was able to capture a picture before ran into the woods. I tried coaxing him back out so I could take a few more pictures but he was very hesitant. I got this shot and one more before he ran off again.
Click on March 23, 2011 to see post of "Rocky" on top the trash cans.

Being a Good Steward of Mother Earth

I am of the belief that we should be good stewards of Mother Earth and all of her species, whether flora or fauna and all of the resources she provides for us. We can't keep taking and taking and ravaging her, she does a fine job of that herself. But that is her right. We on the other hand don't have that right. We need to respect her and all life. We are all connected and we our not only hurting ourselves but everyone and everything.
Yes, even pesky 'Rocky Racoon' is important in the Circle Of Life.
I took this picture in Rocky River Reservation, which is part of our beautiful Metroparks System in Cleveland, Ohio that is fondly known as The Emerald Necklace.
As I was browsing today doing research on some wildlife, I came across this interesting link of a Washington State Zoo.
The Cougar Mountain Zoo and Zoological Society of Washington are dedicated to increasing the understanding and appreciation of the earth’s wildlife and the role of humanity in nature through education, research, captive breeding, conservation, exhibition and recreation.
Visit the link below to learn more.
Cougar Mountain Zoo

The Month of August

Okay, it is August 6th and I just realized I haven't posted anything this month yet, so here is my first one.
AUGUST - 8th Month Of The Year
August is a good month, summer is winding down and the cooler temperatures of fall will soon be upon us, but there is still some time for seasonal outdoor activities. Maybe camping, canoeing, cycling or horseback riding, a backyard barbecue or roasting marshmallows by a campfire. Or how about a hike in one of your favorite city parks. In Cleveland, OHIO we are blessed with a beautiful System of Metroparks also known as The Emerald Necklace for the way they drape around the greater Cleveland area in the shape of a necklace, each one a gem with many things to see and discover. Hiking Trail Locations They are my favorite places to go for a quick nature fix. If you haven't been to one lately, here is a reminder to do so! Of course you can go any time of the year!
I'm rediscovering how much fun it is to take a child to the park. I used to take my daughter when she was little, now I have the opportunity to take my grandson Bobby. He loves the park and all the creepy crawlers that you can find there. Here is a pic of him from our most recent trip earlier in the summer. He is hamming it up in front of the frog sculpture at The Rocky River Reservation Interpretive Center.