OT ... about 3 years ago we seemed to have a peak in the buildup of vols. Attracted the ermine. The vols were like everywhere, dug in, in all the banks.
Last winter (2021/2022) about mid way through we had a two day warm up, culminated in some serious ice rain, on top of about 18 inches of snow. A freak deal but it happens. Then back way below zero. For a long time. And a lot more snow. Put an ice cover right over the ground, like a few inches above G0.
No voles this last summer. I have read if there is an ice cover they all die, can't get out and the ice plugs up their air supply.
I'd like to think the ermine lived well, I fed them a while. Then they just sort of disappeared. In the end I think a lot of them probably starved. I went in and read about em, starvation happens a lot apparently. They can really multiply fast, a mama can have up to 19 kits. Once a year as I recall. And the kits grow up fast, ready for more breeding. Darwin over did it here?
Bob maybe you need to start an ermine farm on your Wisconsin place?
The cycle of life.
Most of us humaniods have it quite good by comparison.
Squirrel watching and feeding now. They seem to cycle as well, maybe not as severe as the vols and ermine.
Had a big lynx stop by this winter, first one we have seen on my place. Came right into the driveway and main parking area. Looking for food I assume. It looked to be in decent shape. They are kind of majestic cats imo.
Tweets
I watched this cross fox, for about an hour, out my PU window, within 15 ft. Hunting vols. Never did see it get one. Rough life. Late winter, it was. I used to drive a fair number of miles, it is what I miss the most, since retiring. Seeing all the scenery, game, etc. Unless I was in a hurry I could just stop and take it all in.
I left this fox the remains of my lunch.
Later, an interesting month coming up in the markets imo. We are all kind of like this fox right now! Looking, watching, listening, reacting, ..... hoping for the big lunch and maybe more.
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