Re: [a/s] New members

[Susi and John Burchard <saluqi@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Very rare to see one in daylight.  They are rather strictly nocturnal. 
Tolerably common around here (western Arizona) .. our neighbor has shot several
which got into his chickens ... he will, alas, shoot anything he thinks *might*
be bothering his livestock, which he doesn't take any steps to protect or
enclose ... the ringtails were under his house, I don't know whether or not they
were interested in the chickens (mice, more likely, they used to be called
"miner's cat" because they were such good mousers, and easily tamed).

> Speaking of Wildlife................
> 
> A few weeks ago I was driving to Malabar.  I took 192 (I think)... a desolate
> road.  I was the only vehicle I could see for miles.. when I saw what looked
> like a dog on the side of the road about to cross.  I hit the brakes... was
> stopped when he darted out in front of me... all (approx) 5 feet of him!!!
> It was a river otter. with a fish in his mouth.  I was so excited I almost
> screamed.  It was so special to see him, I've only seen them at Sea World or
> in Disney movies.  He was wonderful.  I have since bought an otter charm for
> my silver charm bracelet.

Now THAT is something.  I've never seen an otter in the wild.

John

Susi and John Burchard
Tepe Gawra Salukis
saluqi@ix.netcom.com