Ruffed grouse?
I went for a bike ride yesterday and saw some sights in the neighborhood.
At first I thought these little ground-hugging birds were young turkeys. But 1) no “adults” around 2) not a big flock 3) a different stripe pattern in their feathers and especially 4) that little crest on top of their heads convinced me they’re not turkeys. My phone camera identifies this as a ruffed grouse. Rarely seen, but yesterday I saw them twice. The photo is very cropped, they don’t like attention!
I went to one of the abandoned houses I like to check on. I wish I was brave enough to go inside, but I’m not. I noticed this abandoned picnic table out front. Because of Grace at windthread, I had serious thoughts about how I could steal the table. It looks like it’s in pretty good shape and it would be useful in my yard. But I won’t do it. It belongs here in the ruin.
This beautiful old apple tree is in the yard there. Very few apples on it this year. I love its shape.
Those head feathers, I thought turkey until I looked closer.
Believe it or not I found an abandoned half built building on my own property, 9 acres back. Trying to get a path cleared so I can investigate further.
Apple trees are so gnarly, I love how they grow.
Abandoned buildings carry so much – I love them. Old apple trees too!
I think you should bring that table to your place.
I will be thinking about it!
Catherine~ That house is such a patchwork! These old places are so great and worth photographing. I could see how the picnic table would be tempting. The grouse’s headpiece reminds me of a quail (kinda). That apple tree is great…like the shape of a Bonsai tree!
Maybe I’ll explore the house further – get Sam to come with me. I’m afraid I’ll fall through floorboards but it’s very intriguing.
You could leave a note saying you will return it if necessary