Sunday, January 11, 2004

Busy, busy

I am working on a Mad Cow/BSE post; have patience while I try to learn what's going on, and try to understand why cows are fed to other cows. . .

Saturday: we enjoyed our in search of eagles tour at Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge--we did see some Golden Eagles (at a distance) but also some Northern Harriers (formerly known as Marsh Hawks.) Of course, we also saw bison and longhorn cattle and prairie dogs; deer, coyotes, and even elk (first time we've seen elk here!) Alas, we didn't see any Bald Eagles; here is some info about Bald Eagles in Oklahoma (from the Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center)
. Look for the link to download the set of hyperlinked pages.

We picked up a schedule of tours for 2004; Tim noticed a 'strenous' wilderness hike in April--so we'll probably try to get reservations for that one! (There are also wildflower, star-gazing, elk, fall foliage, night animals tours.)

Before the tour, we had a picnic lunch at the refuge. Crested Titmice begged for bread crumbs--which the boys were happy to provide. Joe took some photos--we'll have to wait and see how they turned out.


Father, let me dedicate All this year to you
In whatever earthly state You will have me be
Not from sorrow, pain, or care Freedom dare I claim;
This alone shall be my prayer: Glorify Your name.
--from New Year's Hymn by Lawrence Tuttiett, 1864 (alt.)