Today is National Pet Day! Traveling as often as I do makes it impossible to be a traditional pet owner, but over the years I’ve had my share of company!
Living along side a preserved greenbelt we get lots of visitors in the Wolfe garden, including these troublemakers. They are cute, they are playful, and they love to uproot the various vegetation in my garden. I’ve taken to using humane water jet devices to keep them from pawing around my ponds.
The delicate trees in my yard make excellent nesting grounds for smaller birds, like this Anna’s Hummingbird. It’s always an uplifting moment to discover their intricately assembled nests housing tiny eggs when I’m working in the garden.
Lastly, the koi. Sad to say that I’ve had koi numerous times over the years. However, much like those traditional pets they end up being a lot of work – and also very hard to protect in the pacific northwest, where fish are a favorite snack of many a predator. I had fish in my pond up until this past Christmas eve. As I was away on a trip, my security cameras caught a large river otter having himself a holiday feast, and then had the audacity to take a post-meal nap. Frustrating, but that is the circle of life!
So – happy National Pet Day to everyone who has furry, scaled or feathered friends, even if i like me your “pets” are free to roam!
There’s a lot to see here in the Pacific Northwest, and there are still spaces available to join me at Mount Rainier and on the Olympic peninsula – or if you’re open to other locations in the western US join me in Colorado or on the California Coast!
Greenland has been in the news lately, but we will leave current events there and instead look back at this gorgeous territory of Denmark from previous trips here. Offering some of the most dramatic and untouched natural beauty on Earth, the scenery is both wild and serene. The soft, diffused light of the Arctic sun casts a magical glow over the landscape. Those in the ‘flat earth’ camp might be discouraged to hear that there are weeks when the sun never sets!
Wildlife in Greenland is equally captivating, with an array of species adapted to its Arctic environment. The icy waters are home to whales, seals, and walruses, while the skies are often dotted with migratory birds like puffins, guillemots, and arctic terns. Capturing these creatures in their natural habitat can be both challenging and rewarding. Using a long lens and maintaining a respectful distance is key to getting those perfect wildlife shots while preserving the integrity of the creatures’ natural environment.
Although I’m primarily known for wildlife, the culture of the places we visit are just as important and the two are intrinsically linked. Greenland is a blend of indigenous Inuit heritage and Danish influences. The Inuit have lived in Greenland for thousands of years, and their traditions, language, and craftsmanship continue to play an essential role in the country’s identity. Visitors can explore colorful villages, where the vibrant homes contrast beautifully against the snowy surroundings, and witness the art of traditional kayak building.
Leave a comment below if Greenland is on your bucket list – perhaps we will plan a tour!
