Our trees are full of the wind right now. I love laying here at night and hearing it move through the hollow.

Living close to the earth like this , the things you hear are important. The sounds tell a story of what is happening in your world…

Crows are my best friend , they have 70 plus different vocalizations! They have a different sound for a man vs. a man with a gun…there is a very distinct call for a hawk and a completely different one for an owl.many hunters dislike them, because they will follow them and warn wildlife. Grain farmers also have problems, because they thieve grains..sometimes in large amounts. But for me, they are sentinels, protectors and local entertainment!

They have a hilarious sense of humor. I’ve seen a crow light on branch near a sleeping owl, then slowly sidle up beside it, look around, and ?suddenly do a raucous “Caw!” in it’s ear, flying away to sit and laugh as the owl wakes up bumfuzzled.

They tend to hang out in smaller family groups, living in one area, claiming turf. Yet I have them gather into murder of crows..hundreds in one spot, discussing , arguing, the it gets still and then it seems like they come to an agree ment and they all disperse!

They are extremely aggressive toward hawks and other raptors…ganging up on them and driving them out of their territory. It is odd here, ours tolerate our resident hawks, the Redtails, Sharp Shin and Coopers yet let a strange hawk move in and it is driven out rapidly .

One of the deep joys of living here, is our wildlife. They have a rhythm to their lives that brings me a sense of belonging, when I slow down and listen. So many things here can tell a story, just by sound alone. Deer move the forest floor with a certain rhythm, while squirrels have their own crazy start stop sound.

The creek has it own voice. I hear it sing , gurgle and roar…you can tell if it is high water by the sound. There  are perfect places to sit and listen to the waterfalls, or wade …but watch out for the crawfads! They have an affinity for my big toe.

Sitting on the deck, just listening …a treasure all it’s own.