There was hint of sunshine this morning. It didn’t last and we’re currently shrouded in mists this evening, high up in the South Downs. But the sun was nice while it was there, and it brought out the early morning duck feeders to Falmer pond. I’m sure the ducks did well enough, but whatever the ducks don’t get, there are always other hungry and watchful creatures around determined not to miss out on the free grub.
Patience proved to be a virtue, and after several scurries back out of sight, the rat was rewarded with by the appearance of several pieces of bread.
With each piece it would disappear into the undergrowth, before re-emerging a minute or two later empty handed. I watched its route each time.
This is where it was taking its hand-outs. To the top of the tree in the left of this shot. I suspect it may have a nest up there. It stands just over 6 feet high, and it undoubtedly safe from any potential flooding. Wise little rat who lives in a tree 😉
Later in the day a similar pattern played out as some of the lunchtime duck-feeders distributed more bread. This time the bread was going into the water, not on the bank. A lesser black-backed gull circled several times and took its share, but the main beneficiaries were the carp.
Camera note: all photos taken with the Canon 7D and EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L USM IS lens.
Darko
8 Mar 2014I’ve heard that in some USA states they call squirrels “tree rats” 😀
Words
9 Mar 2014Darko, we call squirrels that as well; but occasionally a tree rat really is a tree rat. 😮
dW
8 Mar 2014Yep. My redneck buddies down South call them that … and harvest them, too. They shoot them out of the trees with .22 rifles (the ones looking for a challenge use .22 pistols or airguns). They get a few (3 or 4, or more if there are more people to be fed), and either stew or fry them. Most Good Ol’ Boys become fairly good at the harvesting and cooking … and, if you don’t know already, squirrel is pretty good, but the quality of the food depends greatly upon the cook.
dW
8 Mar 2014Sorry, Words … forgot to say that the photos are really nice … the rat is really cute, and oddly enough, the carp, too.
Surely a diet of white bread can’t be too healthful. They must get more appropriate food somewhere.
Words
9 Mar 2014dW, a cute carp! Thanks 😀 I’m sure the bread isn’t great for them, but it’s typically what all ducks get fed here. One couple do bring lots of seed as well which is far better for them. The rats like it too!