Saturday, November 1, 2014

First Frost




The thermometer took a nose dive last night.   
At first light, zinnias, deluding themselves that everything was the same as always, stood bright and tall in the flowerbed.  
It didn't take long for the sun's warmth to reveal that their glory was gone.




Underground, chipmunks were hunkered snug in their dens.  
The adults have been busy lately preparing for winter, gathering acorns, and stuffing their elastic cheeks with sunflower seeds.




The little ones have been active, too.  
It took them a while to figure out that acorns were more than toys; there was something yummy inside. 
 Now they can't leave them alone.




Considering that they live in underground, chipmunks are remarkably clean, 
most likely due to all the time they spend washing up.

Or is he just talking into his watch phone?




A crack in the rock walk provides temporary shelter.
Driven by a wind gust, leaves swirl down, and the chipmunks dive for cover.




"Is it safe?"




They look quite sweet, but the mother can deal some swift and harsh discipline when she is displeased.

Of course, it's always best to ask, "Mother, may I?"




"I'm outta here!"




Linking with Saturday's Critters