Not our name, but our passion
The Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is a tree dwelling squirrel native to the eastern part of the United States and Canada. It is very important in forest regeneration due to its habit of scattering and hoarding of seeds. It is common in parts of Europe and is considered an invasive species there. Alex took these pictures as the marauding culprits scattered and ate birdseed on our deck overlooking the river.
The eastern chipmunk (Tamias striatus) lives in deciduous wooded areas and urban parks throughout the eastern United States and southern Canada. It prefers areas with rocky outcrops as it is mostly a ground dwelling animal. Alex took these pictures from our living room looking out on the deck as it was eating birdseed that had been scattered by marauding Gray Squirrels.
Alex and Emma spotted this American Toad out by the river. The American toad (Bufo [Anaxyrus] americanus) is a common site here in the northeast. Luckily Emma did not pick it up as its skin is very slightly toxic.
Our house is right along the Exeter River in Raymond, New Hampshire. Alex finally expressed some interest in fishing so we bought him a simple rod and reel. After just a few casts in pulled in a good size fallfish for his first catch. He excitedly headed to Wason Pond and caught a few bluegills that we devoured for dinner!!
When I was looking for a house to purchase years ago I fell in love with my current home at first sight. The main attraction was the river running adjacent to the property. It was overgrown and unsightly but I saw the promise in its inherent beauty.
The river provided endless pleasant family time on the deck overlooking the river
Convenient access for the canoes
I found out that there was an old road that led to the back of the property where there was a flat area that was used to cut ice in the days before refrigeration. Much of the ice cutting access road has been overgrown or decimated by new buildings but some remnants remain. Alex traced the route that runs directly through our property to document the path.
We enjoy our time out by the fire pit during the summer months
