I don't consider this post significantly momentous and it certainly won't make the 3rd, 4th, or even 5th page of the daily newspaper, but maybe what it means to me is that the cycle of life continues each year whether you're human or animal. And it's sort of a really touching cycle that occurs usually each spring. Obviously you see a "wabbit" as Elmer would longingly call out. Nah...it's not Bugs but maybe Bugs' girlfriend. It's a Mommy Rabbit and she's carrying, or actually nursing her young. They're lying beneath her in a clump of grass enjoying their daily sustenance. I happened to come along them a couple of weeks ago as I was mowing the lawn and saw this clump of dead grass in the middle of the lawn. As I surveyed the area prior to mowing, looking for rocks or twigs larger than what I lazily would just mow over, I noticed the clump of grass. As I was about to just pick up the grass and give it the old heave, I just decided to garner a look-see. And squirming beneath the mound, were tiny baby "kits". I'm not sure how many there were, but I did see that they didn't have any fur so I guess they were only a few weeks old as they start to fur out about 3-4 weeks. The mother rabbit is quite diligent as she usually comes about the same time each day to nurse and check on them.
As I checked on them this evening, I can see that they are turning into little "fur balls". And the fact that they've made it this "fur" (how's that for a pun?) in their very short life is a testament to survival. My innate desire to protect them goes beyond survival of the fittest even though I know it's nature's way. There has been a hawk taking up residence in my area over the last few years but I haven't seen it as of late, possibly as the "hunting" has been limited and we certainly have our fair share of cats that are on the prowl. So, as these little kits strive to adulthood, I hope the cycle of life continues for them and once again I won't be to upset when I see those familiar little chunks taken off my hostas each spring.
2 comments:
I feel like Summers almost here after reading this post.
I hope all the kits make it to adulthood, keep us updated on their progress and just to let you know I fully intend to watch Days Of Wine And Roses when I've got some time off in a couple of weeks.
From what you've said I'm sure I'll enjoy it!
Thanks Paul,
I saw 3 of them out there last evening romping and running through my yard at the steady and watchful gaze of Momma Bunny. I saw one this afternoon and tried to get a shot of it, but it dashed off before I could get to my camera. Hope you enjoy Days of Wine and Roses
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