We've established the critter eating our blackberry patch is a mountain beaver, thanks to some photos from Andy that showed the tell-tale white spot behind the ears. Pity we don't know how to get him to invite his mates around to visit - they're doing a better job on the blackberries than our gardening service!
Today, however, took the cake - we spotted two young coyotes on the hill near the side fence this morning. Andy was out shopping, so we grabbed the camera for documentary evidence, or I suspect he wouldn't have believed us! Mangy looking things too, probably moulting - but still pretty scrawny. I was surprised theey were bold enough to come into the bacckyard too, which means they're probably hungry enough to overcome any fear.
The most surprising thing to us is the ambivalence most people seem to have about their appearance. I thought we'd be able to call the City and have someone come and trap them, but we'd have to pay for a private contractor instead. Neighbours seem to think the kids would be okay, but pets would be in danger - I've seen cats that are bigger than Ewan is just now!
Needless to say we won't be letting the kids play in the backyard for a while ... hearing a nearby pack of coyotes howling in chorus with passing sirens is a bit unnerving
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