August 31 2007
After refill yesterday, all hummingbird feeders empty! Migration moving through?
Posted in 2007 Journal, Food
August 27 2007
Many hummers! Lots of Ruby throats, Black-chinned and juveniles
Posted in 2007 Journal, Census
August 26 2007
Hummers
- Experiment with ways to prevent direct sunlight to shine on glass feeders to extend their fresh use.
- Hourglass shaped feeders seem to last longer than globe shape
Posted in 2007 Journal, Food
August 23 2007
16 total deer, 8 youngsters. Plan to hunt deer this winter.
Caretaker's note: White-tailed deer are overpopulated in the hill country. The numbers of their natural predator, the mountain lion, is in decline.
Many deer are hit by cars and some starve. They browse heavily on seedlings and forbes. They also require acorns and juniper berries for mast. All plantings that are not deer resistant have been caged with wire to prevent browsing. Attempts at introducing new native plant species require extra effort to ensure success. watersto_jennystone allows hunting on the land. Plans are now underway to prepare for the hunting season in the winter.
Improved habitat and selective harvest equals quality deer according to information published about managing White-tailed deer in the Texas Hill Country (PDF) from the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.
Posted in 2007 Journal, Census
August 20 2007
Hurricane Dean in Mexico, very cool, light shower and breezy. River very high and fast.
- Continued to refresh hummingbird feeder
- Fewer feeders presented
- Saw Ruby throat
- Mostly Black-chinned (green back)
- Many animal tracks and dragonflies at pond
- Collected mulch from Oak Wilt clearing to beef up driveway behind house
- Treated poison ivy on steps to river with horticultural vinegar
- Added water to natural pond in bobcat draw with 2 hoses strung from well water faucet
Posted in 2007 Journal, Census, Habitat, Food, Water