We’re very happy here, but
it’s easy to see our condo complex as a bit cookie-cutter, although those of us who live here know that the units can be surprisingly different inside. And what with the HOA restrictions – no lawn ornaments, no painting your front door a bright puce – it can look suburban-sterile. But we have a remarkable variety of trees and plantings, and although we’re a half-mile from Main Street, we’re surrounded by woods. When we first moved here, I heard tales of a bear sighting in the middle of the street.
If I’m by a back window at the right time, I’ll usually see three turkeys making their afternoon rounds. And they must begin their day at the other end of the complex; more than once I’ve had to stop to let them pass in the morning.
A couple of days ago, when the Mumbai monsoon that’s been here for the past 14 days was taking a break, I managed to get out for a walk. Ahead of me on the sidewalk was a young deer. What to do?
I didn’t want to turn around, and I didn’t want to scare it. I continued slowly, head down. As I drew closer, I saw Mom on a lawn to my left. The teenager moved to the street, only about 10 feet away at this point, and I could hear its hooves tapping on the asphalt. With a sudden bound, it skittered around to the back of me, heading to the safety of Mama.
I also finally managed to take a picture of a tree down the street from us.
It’s a Gordonia axillaris (and before you get impressed, I only know that because I just looked it up.) Otherwise known as a Fried Egg tree, an apt name. It’s even kind of fun when the flowers fall since they all land in a tidy circle at the base like an ambitious Sunday brunch.
I love the fried egg tree. Are those wild turkeys taking a daily constitutional?
ReplyDeleteYup. They appear to have a routine they follow daily.
DeleteWe spot deer every now and then. It's nice except when I hit one and did a few thousand $ damage. Poor thing, but it ran off.
ReplyDeleteThat would certainly shake me up.
DeleteAn adventurous walk. Don't you like the way deer seem poised on those little hooves and skitter away.
ReplyDeleteLove that tree - and would love to see your wildlife as well (despite knowing that deer and gardens don't always coexist well).
ReplyDeleteI saw Mama Deer with her two young ones this morning on my walk. I also just put my head down and walked slowly while they watched. I love seeing wildlife on my daily walks.
ReplyDeleteHaven't seen a group of wild turkeys for a long time. Deer, yes! Black bears we sight most years. Local employers with landscaping and picnic tables warn employees when not to eat lunch outside. Bear magnets.
ReplyDelete