Backyard Critters: Squirrel Edition

My favorite way to relax, is to sit in my kitchen chair, sip my coffee and watch my backyard friends munch away on their seeds. When I first lured a squirrel into my backyard, with an ear of corn, I was jumping for joy. For some reason these creatures have always fascinated me. I was determined to get as close as possible and hoped he (or she) would eat from the palm of my hand. We're still working on that part...

I noticed a set of three squirrels that started coming in my yard regularly. I should have named them Alvin, Simon and Theodore but I wasn't thinking at the time. One was really skinny, one was medium sized, and the other was a little chubby. That's the only reason why I was able to tell them apart.

Squirrels are so funny, from their wagging/smacking of their tail, incessant eating of seeds and nuts, and chasing one another around the yard or trees.

"You talkin' 'bout me?"

I imagine this is what Fred would say to me as I continued on with my ramblings!

I think Fred wants to secretly be The Incredible Hulk. He posed his best Hulk Smash for me once.

Occasionally I am able to bear witness to Fred's daily exercise. He enjoys aerobics, which involves hanging, balancing, and flying.

Here you can see he is practicing his balancing act.

Fred is about to practice jumping! Go Fred, Go!

Here is he practicing his hanging act. Unfortunately, he dropped some seeds. Don't worry Fred, you'll get better with time!

Sometimes Fred likes to carry his food to the front yard... I don't mind much. I just follow him haha

Sometimes Fred likes to fly.

Fred has always been a curious creature. He likes to explore my outside furniture.

Mostly, I think he exploring for more food 🧐😅

After a long hard day, Fred is ready to relax and take it easy.

If you’re here for the nerdy photo deets… this part is for you! I photographed all of these images using my Canon 6D and probably all with my 70-200mm f/2.8 II. I get torn between using my 70-200 and my 100mm. I recently (FINALLLLY) purchased the Sigma Art 35mm and have fallen IN LOVE.

Most of the time I start as far away as possible, zooming all the way in and I slow zoom out as I walk closer. Sometimes I will come outside if I notice the squirrels from the window. Other times I will have my camera on hand and sit quiet as a mouse and wait patiently. I try not to disturb the animals and if they do see me, I want them to trust me and know that I am not there to harm them. In fact, I couldn't be more like, "LET'S BE FRIENDS!". Let me be your modern Snow White!

The closest I have ever been to Fred is holding my hand out and he sniffed my hand. He then quickly ran away. No idea why! I had a hand full of sunflower seeds ready for him. Oh well, one day Fred! One day!

All images in this article are taken by me: 721vanessa Photography

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