A Rainy-Morning Stroll

Body Language Although I approached them through the trees from the side, the guard wasn't deceived. The picture was taken while I used a tree trunk for cover. The guard, pictured at left, is shaking his leg to give silent warning of my approach. October 4, 2004 — 10:45 AM

On a rainy Monday morning, Owen noticed a small flock grazing just past the fence behind our house. Some of their buddies soared over head while the guard stood watch just out of the picture.

Recall that birds' eyes are on the sides of their heads. So, when this guard appears to be looking away, he's really observing things to the side.

Carefully, I moved to within about 30 feet of the flock. They didn't react to my approach except that an additional bird took a gander at me.

Ever bolder, I moved about as close as I could get without climbing the barb-wire fence. I was about 20 to 25 feet from them when this was taken. It was beginning to rain again, so this photo shoot was finished. Watching from the house, I saw that it wasn't long before they took flight. I assume they went to the nearby lake.