Vicki Fox > Guests > PEI Foxes > 2002 Journal 3Q

PEI Foxes - 2002 Journal : July to September

July 4

Gypsy is now coming into the back yard for her nightly feed.  I haven't been reporting because it's the same thing each night.  If I give her dog food or cat food, the crows will pick most of it up before she has a chance to get much.  I think she must have a deal worked out with the crows because tossing her meat scraps and bones works better for her.  She can get lots in her mouth before the crows have a chance.  No doubt she pays them off out of sight.   Yesterday I roasted a couple of turkeys so she had part of the neck and giblets from one of them.  She promptly ran to Tom's garden and cached one of the neck pieces and came back for the giblets.  Terrible storms here; our phone line was out all day yesterday, and power is out today as well as the phone line.  Fortunately my fax/modem line works intermittently and my laptop has a large battery capacity.  Gypsy returned about an hour after her feed last night and was begging for more.  I told her a storm was coming and to hurry to safe quarters.  She stared at me as if I was a really dummy.  When the wind started to blow chairs around, she took off.

July 5

Tom's birthday today so had the whole PEI family over.  What with the offspring of our nephews and nieces, there were 9 little grandnephews and grandnieces.  Gypsy came for her evening treat while we were on the deck having watermelon.  I tossed her a half of a turkey neck and some giblets.   The little kids were thrilled that she came so close (to the driveway).  The grown-ups were taking pictures.  Gypsy buried part of the turkey neck in Tom's freshly hoed garden and then came back, so I cut up a 3 week old sugar donut and tossed some to her.  The little kids wanted to do the same so I gave them some of what I had cut up, and eventually the fox was coming up to within 4 or 5 feet of the deck.  When I was through with the one donut, I went in the house assuming the event was over. Well, Gypsy is on sugar overload now because the kids knew I kept the leftovers and stale bread, etc. in the fridge in the mudroom and they kept on feeding her sugar donuts until Tom realized what was happening and stopped it.   Sooooo, we have one wired fox.  Tonight she's having an apple and that's it.

July 6

Guess What?  Gypsy refused the apple.  She picked a piece up and promptly spit it out. Golly, I wonder what she would have preferred?  (She got nothing else; the apple or nothing.)

July 13

Gypsy is still visiting each evening.  We were away for a couple of days and Sheldon and Gertrude came up from their cottage to resume her feeds.  They couldn't believe how nervous she was and wouldn't come near them.  It hurt their feelings I think that they had only been absent from the evening ritual for about 10 days and she has forgotten them.  I notice she's warier and I wonder if the other foxes are about and she's back to low wo/man on the totem pole.

July 14

Tom and I spent the part of the afternoon back in the woods taking photos of wild flowers and picking wild strawberries.  If you've never picked wild strawberries, they are about half the size of an eraser at the end of a pencil.  Tedious work, but oh, my they are sweet.  As we were coming around the curve on the circle road, a large golden fox came half-way out into the road.  Probably curious about the noise.  As we drew closer he quickly jumped back into the woods.  I had about 4 or 5 seconds to view the critter.  From the size I'd guess it's a male, and from the color it could have been Gus.  Who's to know.

The turkey bones and fat that I had left on the flat rock and at the log den last night were gone.  Tonight there was scat on the flat rock that hadn't been there this afternoon.  Gypsy was running back toward the field from our back yard.  Evidentally she got her treats while I was leaving tidbits at other places.  I could see her mouth was full - and it had to be full of milk bone because that's all I left tonight.  The crows were chasing her, so she fled to the safety of the field of grain which hid her completely.

July 16

Talked to the man cutting our hay today.  Asked him if he had seen any foxes.  He replied that yesterday when cutting the field by the log den he had seen a small coal black fox traveling with a red.  I'm assuming this is Gilda and she's either traveling with Gus or with Gum Drop.  Unless, she "married" and her mate was with her.  He went on to say that this morning he had seen a mottled red in the field below the hutka.   This would be Gypsy.  So, it appears from first glance that the territorial lines drawn by Gum Drop last year are still holding.  Everything back of Sunset Ridge and the hutka are Gum Drop's (who allows Gilda access) and everything below is Gypsy's.  I'd say Gypsy, while being the outcast, has had the best of it with all the nurturing Sheldon and Gertrude did through the winter.

Went to the local "diner" for dinner tonight.  When we got home and pulled into the lane, I could see Gypsy waiting on the berm behind Tom's garden.  I rushed into the house and got both the video camera and the still camera along with a couple pieces of turkey neck and some giblets.  Threw them out by the maple tree and called "kit kit" and she came running.  Got some pictures of both kinds.  She would run into Tom's garden to eat her treat, and then come back for another.  We had to leave to go pick up the old tractor and wagon which Tom stores in a barn several farms away.  He got the tractor running and I came back to the house, put the bag of cat food in the car and drove up the hill behind the house.  There was Gypsy, waiting in front of the hutka.

I put the car window down and called "kit kit" and she came right up to the car.  Not nearly so nervous as she is in the back yard.  I broke a small milk bone into 3 pieces and tossed them to her one at a time.  She was so close to the car I couldn't get a picture. 

I then continued back to the flat rock by the back field before the brook.  She didn't follow me at all - reinforcing the idea that last year's range boundaries still hold.  Left food at the rock and the old log den.  Coming back I threw a handfull of cat food at Sunset Ridge, but no sign of any fox.

July 18

Scott, my biologist and nature specialist friend, is visiting from Alberta.  We drove the woods and on the Loop Rd found fresh fox scat with egg shells in it.  Scott couldn't tell for sure, but guessed they were probably duck eggs since the Loop Rd is between the river and the brook.

Last night I left ham scraps and dog food at the regular places and decided to wait by the old log den just to see what would happen.  About 30 minutes later I realized there was a head in the tall grace at the edge of the trees watching me.  I got out my camera and had it at the ready.  Lo and behold, a black fox emerged.  It had a coal black head and shoulders, a silver grey back and sides and a black fanny and tail.  It was cautious, but not terribly alarmed.  It walked with confidence.  I took scads of pictures, but the still digital camera doesn't zoom up as close as the video camera.  At least I had a camera with me.  At times I felt this was Gilda with silver guard hairs she didn't have last year, and at other times I felt it was an early pup - probably born in March.  I came back and emailed some of the photos to Scott along with a couple of Gilda from last year.  He studied the facial markings, ear set, size, etc. and gave me the bad/good news that he is 99% certain that this is Gilda.  I'm happy she's still around, if it is - but my balloon is burst that I don't have a new litter.  However, it was late August last year before I saw Gypsy, Gum Drop and Gilda on a regular basis, so there is still hope.

July 19

Out for the evening, so Gertrude and Sheldon did the feed.  They stayed in the back yard, didn't go up the hill, but didn't see anyone.

July 20

Out for dinner so left dry cat food and fruit loops at the feeding places.  Home from dinner by 7:15, so went back around  the spots with dog kibble.  The flat rock was cleaned up so left a handfull there.  As I drove thru the cut to the field by the log dog, I saw this red streak coming toward me.  There was Gyspsy, racing toward the car just as a dog would greet its master after a day at work.  Her tail was wagging.  I threw a handfull of kibble to her and she ate a few - reluctantly.  We "chatted" for awhile and then I went on toward the log den.  She followed right along next to the car.  The earlier treats I had left were gone, so I don't know if Gilda had visited or Gypsy cleaned them up before my second trip.  I left kibble (all I had with me) and then went about 30 feet up the hill to get a better view.   Gypsy came right along with me and parked herself about 15 feet from the car.  I spent a half hour talking to her.  She settled down and listened to all I had to say, her ears twitching ever so often to let me know she was paying attention.  I asked if she knew if anyone had kits this spring and where they were.  No response.   At one point she got up, turned her back to me, bowed to the opposite direction with her fanny high in the air toward me, yawned, and turned back and came up closer to the car.  After 20 minutes of my nonstop chatter she rose, went behind some high weeds, squatted and left some scat, and mosied down to the feeding area by the log den.  She tried some kibble again.  I could hear the crunch of one, but the second one she spit out.  Eventually she got a mouth full and cached it right by the feeding area.  Obviously it isn't something she really cares about as the hole for the cache was one swipe of the paw and one minor nose push to cover it with a few grains of dust.  She immediately trotted right up to the car - about 3 feet away - and gazed at me with the most poignant pleading sorrowful look.  I could just hear her saying "Don't you have anything else?"  I told her that was all I had.  She settled down and I nattered on for about 10 minutes more about proper nutrition, etc.  I finally had to get home to return some phone calls before it got too late, so said good night to her and left. 

July 21

Gypsy was waiting at the back of the back yard.  As soon as the car started up, she ran toward it.  I got out to give her a ham scrap but she ran ahead.  After a couple of tries, I realized she wanted me to follow her.   She ran to the flat rock where I left kibble and fruit loops and one ham bit.  I then left the same by the log den and went about 10 feet up the hill to video whatever appeared.  Gypsy came running thru the cut and spent several minutes cleaning up bits at the log den.   Suddenly Gilda appeard and Gypsy charged her to run her off.  Gilda just circled around a bush and came out behind Gypsy.  Gypsy immediately ran to the protection of the car.  Fortunately a big round hay bale was next to the car and Gypsy quickly jumped up on top.  From here she could survey everything, plus look right into the car.   I got some good video of her hay bale episode, plus some good close ups of Gilda eating.  I had the strongest feeling that Gypsy ate the fruit loops and ham piece, leaving the kibble for Gilda.  Suddenly Gilda bounded off with playful leaps to greet someone/thing out of sigh.  Gypsy hunkered closer to the car.  The mosquitos were fierce so I had to leave the windows closed.  Near suffocation, I started the car to go home.  Gypsy followed the car to Sunset Ridge where she sat, waiting for treats.  Figuring she had enough of the "sweet stuff" I left a handfull of kibble. 

July 23

They say victims of abuse often become abusers.  Gypsy has done so.   Some how she has gone from the Omega to the Alpha.  Both she and Gilda were waiting tonight.  Gypsy ran to meet the car as Gilda melted into the brush.  I left porkchop fat, bones, and some kibble.  Gypsy ate it all, plus caught a mouse in the field.  She sat next to the car for about 10 minutes while we went over etiquette, good manners, letting others go first, etc. etc.  She twitched her ears, rose, and walked to the other side of the car where she dug up a cache of bread.  Since bread is what I left last night she must have grabbed it all once again.  I was so fascinated about her unearthing her cache I never turned the camera on.  Finally Gypsy took off and disappeared over the crest of the hill.  Gilda then came out of the brush and sniffed and sniffed - probably wondering where the pork chops were, and actually found one piece of kibble that Gypsy didn't eat.  Yes, Gypsy is even eating kibble now.  I couldn't stand it - poor Gilda.  I started the car which sent her into the brush again and drove over to the spot where she had been.  I left a few fruit loops and some kibble.  Next thing I knew Gypsy was streaking down the hill with a pork chop bone in her mouth (tonight's offering) and stood over the extra bits I left for Gilda.  Her dilemma was amusing; should she temporarily drop the bone in order to get more fruit loops?  I was disgusted with her and as it was starting to rain, left.  Let them fight it out.

July 24

Took the golf cart to the back of the woods this morning to check on the wild raspberries.  As I came around the curve on the circle drive a fox came out of the trees evidently curious about the noise.  This happened several weeks ago.  When the cart came closer, he bounced back into the trees.  Fortunately I keep a jar of milk bone in the cart so called "kit kit" and tossed a milk bone into a bare patch by the side of the road.  The fox stopped when I called, turned around and stood and looked at me.  I nattered on for a while and the fox took one step closer and then no more, but continued to look at me.  I tossed a few more milk bone pieces and then left.   This fox is a light mottled red - lighter than Gypsy, and also bigger than Gypsy.  I honestly don't know if it's Gus, Gum Drop, or a brand new one.  

July 25

We took Ruth from across the road out to dinner at the Red Rooster.  (The cook from the Blue Goose is now there so the food is excellent.)  After dinner Ruth and Tom had after dinner drinks on the deck of the hutka while I did the fox hunt.  Gypsy was waiting by the log den and ran to meet the car.   I didn't spend any time as I wanted to get back to the hutka.  Tonight's menu was strictly dog kibble with a little dry cat food for flavor.  I left the log den area and drove straight thru the field up the hill back to Sunset Ridge where I left more kibble.  Gypsy followed for a few feet and then went back to see if the kibble changed into donuts; it hadn't.  I just settled down with my Pepsi on the deck of the hutka with Tom and Ruth when Gypsy appeared on Sunset Ridge.  Gadzooks!  More kibble.  I called to her and invited her over.  She came trotting toward the hutka and stopped about 30 feet away.  She settled down and was content to stay there as long as we did.   She didn't seem angry about the kibble, but did her best to look pathetic.  It worked on Ruth - not on me.

July 26

Both Gilda and Gypsy were out tonight.  Gilda hung back until Gypsy had eaten all the ham bits.  By mistake Gypsy got a piece of kibble.  It was so quiet tonight (no crows) and since I was parked just 25 feet away I could hear the crunch.  She was not thrilled with what was in her mouth and if she knew how to spit I'm sure she would have done so.  Gypsy also picked up the piece of blueberry muffin and cached it right next to the car.   She made one more survey of the feeding area to make sure she hadn't missed anything, and then curled up next to the car.   Gilda came out hesitantly, and then discovered the kibble.  Good heavens she's a noisy eater.  When I throw out the kibble some lands in the grass, some in the lane, some in the trees.   Gilda hunted for nearly 20 minutes, finding one every minute or so, and crunching delightedly.  Gypsy watched benignly until Gilda was through.  The two of them trotted off into the trees..   I'll be back in Chicago for 3 days so Tom will feed (or leave food) in my absence.

July 30

Gypsy was waiting at the hutka for me, so I threw out a small handfull of dry cat food.  She ate it as if it were caviar.  While she was so occupied I drove to the log den area.  I am eliminating the flat rock as a feeding area since I can't observe it.  There are two bare spots in the lane by the log den, about 20 feet apart.  I leave food at each area.  Tonight it worked perfectly.  I left a half of an old sausage that was at the bottom of the fox-scrap bowl and some dog kibble by one area, and some ham bits and dog kibble at the other.  Gypsy pounced on the old sausage like it was a banquet and promptly took it to parts unknown either to cache it or eat in private.  Meanwhile Gilda came out of the trees to the other area where she finally got some ham bits.  She had just started crunching on the kibble when Gypsy returned to eat kibble in "her" spot.  Yes, Gypsy is finally resigned to eating kibble.  After several minutes, just as if it had been choreographed, the foxes crossed over to each other's spot, stopping midway to smell each other's breath.  (My spots better than your spot)  They continued to enjoy the kibble and since I had bread ready to come out of the oven, left them to their pleasure.

July 31

Both Gypsy and Gilda were waiting tonight.  It's time for a word or two about how Gypsy looks.  For the past week or so her tail has had a kink in it.  It comes straight out from the rump, dips down before resuming the straight out carriage, rather like an "S".  Actually, it looks like a crank.  She is small - nearly half the size of Gilda.  Her amber eyes are a little too close together for beauty, and her coat is utterly shabby.  Her legs look fragile, as all foxes legs do, and her white bib is scraggly.  Her nose is long and has a dip in in; a ski-nose ala Bob Hope.  All in all, not a great beauty.  However, I'm sure her winter coat will start in a month or so and she'll look gorgeous.  Tom went with me tonight and since Gypsy's tail juts straight out and is lacking a full brush, Tom thinks the little tufts of hair beneath the tail could be testicles.  I hope not - we finally got it defined who she is (Gypsy not Gypsy) and I don't think I could handle a sex change right now.  Gilda is stockier, her coat is prettier, a blunt face, (no dip in her nose), and large ears.  Neither of these foxes are the raving beauties Pepper and Abby were 10 years ago.

Aug 3

Lots to report.  Yesterday, driving on the winding road, a baby skunk came out to greet me.  It stared at the golf cart.  I didn't dare move because I didn't want to alarm it and get sprayed by it or its mother.  I got a couple of pictures before it turned its back and trotted into the trees.  It really was cute.

Tonight BIG NEWS!  Gum Drop is back and looking absolutely healthy and gorgeous.  Gypsy was in charge of the feeding spots, but Gum Drop didn't show fear, awe, nor hesitation; yet, Gypsy was still Alpha (at least for tonight).  Gum Drop did show some respect by dipping her head slightly and keeping a windmill action of her tail.  She was obviously delighted to be with Gypsy by the way she performed her tail wags.  After cleaning up the meat loaf crumbles and dog kibble, Gypsy headed up the to see what was left at Sunset Ridge, but first she came up to the car door to see if I had any "good stuff" with me.  I talked to her and then noticed Gum Drop had trotted up beside her.  Gum Drop seemed perfectly comfortable with the car and with my voice.  Got lots of good photos and video.  (Still trying to determine Gypsy's sex.  It does look suspicious.)  I'm wondering now if the fox I saw a couple of times on the Circle Drive was Gum Drop.  I thought it could have been at the time but wasn't sure.  The second time, however, the fox stopped when I called kit kit and listened to me natter on with no fear.  My mind is going 100 miles a second.  I'm wondering if Gum Drop had a litter and is just now out and about.  Oh I hope so - it will mean I have my "H" litter after all. 

This afternoon the big old birch tree in front of the house was the aerodrome for Blue Jay flying lessons.  It was fascinating to see the adult bird teach the young one to fly.  They would hop from limb to limb encouraging.  Several young Blue Jays fell off the limb and fluttered their wings to the ground - and then absolutely refused to try again.  Nuf of that stuff.  Two adults would fly down to the ground and give some kind of pep talk or motivational speech as eventually the youngster would flap up to the lowest limb.  One poor thing fell of three times and I never did see that one take off again.

Aug 5

Tom and I toured the woods this morning and noticed more of the very loose, liquid coal black scat that I had seen the other day.  It was on the lower spring road and the clear cut road.  I pointed it out to Tom who said the animal was bleeding profusely internally and that what I was seeing was digested blood.  He felt it could be something like a perforated stomach ulcer or perhaps the animal was poisoned; (it's the way DeCon works).  Since there was no shape to it it's hard to tell whether it's fox, coyote - or even raccoon.  Tom said the animal is in a bad way.  Well, at least it's lasted for 3 days in this condition and he agreed it there was a slight possibility it could respond to nature's healing.

Rain, lightening, thunder tonight so made a fast catering trip.  Gypsy ran to meet the car and wanted to play tag.  It terrifies me.  I know she's smart enough to get out of the way, but am I? 

Aug 7

I had visitors with me for the fox hunt tonight.  Very, very windy so foxes were skittish.  Gilda and Gypsy were "on stage" and we thought we saw the head of another red fox.  Since all three of us saw it at the same time, it wasn't an illusion.  But - it never materialized beyond the head.  Both Gypsy and Gilda actually ate apple without having the skin taken off.  We are making progress.  And Gypsy actually appeared to enjoy the dog food.

Aug 8

All three foxes were out tonight; Gumdrop, Gypsy and Gilda.  Both Gypsy and Gumdrop ran to meet the car tonight, tho Gumdrop did hang back about 30 feet.  Gypsy played her usual "chicken" game by running close to the wheels.  I am so delighted these foxes will eat the apple peel as well as the apple.  They also enjoyed some ham trimmings; rather Gumdrop and Gypsy did.  Gilda arrived too late for the tasty stuff and once again settled for kibble.  Gumdrop was playful tonight and she and Gilda put on quite a show.  First Gumdrop was chasing Gilda through the fields, and then on the return trip it was Gilda chasing Gumdrop. Gumdrop kept inviting Gypsy to play (posture down in front and rear end raised with tail windmilling) but Gypsy wasn't about to give up the serious business of eating.  Gilda and Gumdrop did some playful jumping over each other, pouncing on some Goldenrod, and Gumdrop did a solo act chasing a butterfly.  Gypsy ate.  When Gypsy had her fill, she came next to the car (so close I couldn't open the door) and curled up and watched the other two with me.  When she sees a camera in my hand she quickly strikes a coy pose.   I got a fairly good look at her underside and I'm 75% sure she's a girl.

Aug 10

Put my mosquito netting suit on and went out in the golf cart to feed tonight.  Gypsy was sleeping on the slope of the hill overlooking the feeding area - about in the location I park the car.  She didn't stir at the sound of the golf cart, but when I got to the feed spot and called "kit kit" she came running up to me.  She had no problem with the cart.  However, after waiting for 20 minutes and being eaten alive by mosquitos and black flies on every uncovered spot, I left.   That could actually drive a person nuts.  And these pests love me.  Tom and I went to an outdoor lecture at a historic sight today and everyone was enjoying it except me.  The black flies were hovering around me in a cloud.  We moved to the other side and they followed.  It took Tom, Marian, and me brushing me full time to keep the most of them away.  I've tried every insect repellant known to man and nothing works.  Anway, this is a long way around to stating I may continue to use the car as a catering truck.

Aug 12

Despite my vow not to use the golf cart and subject myself to flying critters, I did try again last night.   However, none of the foxes showed up.

Took the Rav4 tonight and Gypsy ran to meet me.  She loved the cold boiled potato.  Left the kibble for Gilda.  No sign of GumDrop.  Gypsy cached part of the potato and when Gilda appeared, dug it up and recached it farther away.  After a few moments of communal "grazing" she must have had 2nd thoughts and trotted over to it, dug it up and ate it on the spot.

Aug 13

No one was waiting for me tonight and just as I was starting to be concerned, Gilda shot out of the brush as if she had been propelled from a canon.  She galloped down the edge of the field in such big leaps, her forelegs were straight out and the rear legs were pushing straight back.  No sooner had she disappeared from view than Gypsy sauntered onto the scene and started grazing for the dry cat food (three flavors - chicken, beef, fish).  Gilda must have made the circuit in the brush for minutes later she came out behind Gypsy to feast.  Gypsy pretty much ignores her.  No snarfing, no barging, no recognition.  Gilda does likewise to Gypsy.  Gypsy is much better looking now; not nearly so scraggly.  She's putting on some weight (see? dog kibble is better than donuts nutrition-wise) and lookes healthier.  I discovered our neighbor had been feeding her chocolate chip cookies all winter.  I'll bet Gypsy will be glad when the leaves turn and we go back to Chicago.  No sign of Gum Drop since Sunday night.  My guess was that she has established her own range and was just visiting.  Foxes do that, you know.

Aug 15

In honor of a friend's visit, I brought REAL FOOD (table scraps) for the foxes tonight; chicken bits, yellow beans, potato, carrot, pie crust.  Gypsy was waiting and, of course, cleaned up the chidken but did leave some of the kibble behind.  Gypsy obviously had other things on her mind tonight as she ate and ran.  We waited for another half hour, but Gilda never showed up.

Aug 16

Oh what joy!! A new fox . . . well, maybe an old one.  My friend Harriet and I were back in the woods in the golf cart this morning and I left some dry cat foot near where I had seen a fox on the circle road two times earlier this year.  I don't feed regularly there, but every once in a while I throw something out.  We drove another 10 feet and there was fox scat, so I quickly left more cat food there.  Drove about 30 feet and was just turning around when Harriet touched my arm.  There, where we had left food by the scat, was the biggest, most gorgous fox I've ever seen.  It HAS to be a he to be that size.  The tail was bigger around than my arm.  As the golf cart got closer, he melted into the trees.  We went on and drove the winding road and the circle road, and before we went back up on the main road I checked that section of the circle road.  There he was again . . . nibbling the cat food from the first place I left it.  Once again he went into the trees.  I drove past, turned around to watch and there he was in all his glory.  Checking last year's pictures, he's very much like Gus - tho why he would be that far back in the woods is beyond me.  And he seems bigger than Gus was.

Feeding time tonight had Gypsy waiting for us.  She was alone.   She ate and ran - no hanging around to be sociable.  Ten minutes and she was outta there.  We waited another 15 minutes but Gilda never showed up.  I suggested we drive by the brook to see if they were watering.  No one at the brook.  I drove up between the two back fields heading for the short road.   Lo and behold - there was Gilda in the driving track between the fields.  She stared at the car but when it got to within 50 feet she went into the hedge road.  As we passed, she came out again.  I had left no food as this is NOT where I want to have our encounters.  Took the short road to the top of the Loop Road where I'll occasionally throw something out for the partridges or whomever.  The bread and dog kibble I left there this morning were gone and fox scat in its place.  I have no idea what all this means.  I have lots of conjecture but need a few more sightings and interactions to have any real clue.

Aug 17

Wow!  What a day.  Harriet and I went back this morning and the fox in the woods was waiting for us.  The golf cart didn't even pull away before he was out.  I took about 5 min of video tape before I realized it was flashing a problem.  Fortunately, in reviewing it, about 1 minute did "take"; enough for us to compare with last year's video and state categorically that this fox is Gus. Also, in reviewing the previous night's tape of Gypsy with Tom also watching, we now know that Gypsy is a HE.  For sure.  Anyway, back to Gus . . . he is wounded and carries his left rear leg high and appears to be able to tolerate absolutely no weight upon it.  He seemed fairly hungry for our crust of bread and dog dry cat food.  Harriet had saved some steak trimmings for him and he seemed to be appropriately grateful.  I can't believe he could really be starving hungry because his coat is in excellent condition and there are acres and acres of wild raspberries he could eat if his injured foot makes hunting a problem right now.

The evening trip brought disappointment because I had three guests in the car with me and Gypsy wasn't waiting for the catering truck.  I drove across the brook and was driving up along the hedgerow between the two back fields to get to the short road when I saw this little red 'thing' popping up and down amongst the clover, streaking across the field.  Sure nuff, it was Gypsy.  He came thru the hedgerow and up next to the car, twitched his ears when I balled him out for not being at 'our place' at the appointed time, tossed him some kibble, and drove on.  We went thru the loop road, anniversary road, and up the back new plantation without a sight of Gilda.  I checked the spot by the log den - and there was Gilda finally getting first dibs on the treats.  Since there was turkey trimmings and boiled potato with the kibble I was delighted that for once Gilda got to see what human food was like.  Soon Gypsy appeared on the scene to find (chortle, chortle) nothing but kibble left.  No sign of Gum Drop which conforms my theory she was just visiting.

Now that we know Gypsy is a male, it explains Gum Drops behaviour to him.  Respectiful but not obsequious.

Aug 18

Gus was waiting for us back in the woods in the morning.  He came from the opposite side of the road this time, making me wonder if he was the one leaving the digested blood scat.  We'll never know.  He is limping badly - but maybe he was putting on a show to get more food.  I have FINALLY found a fox that likes broccoli.  He ate up all the leftover broccoli from the night before.  Cleaned it up so nicely, I left more - which was promptly eaten.

Gypsy and Gilda got the message and showed up by the log den last night.  I am having much trouble thinking of Gypsy as a "he" and when I talk to him keep calling him a pretty little girl.  I've probably damaged his psyche so badly he'll never be able to reproduce.   It's interesting that his markings are very similar to Gus's - except Gypsy is about the size of a 6 month old fox.   Very, very small - and particularly for a male.  No wonder he has a Napoleon complex.

Aug 19

Gypsy and Gilda didn't show up tonight.  Harriet and I had to leave for early this morning so didn't get back to the woods until tonight.  Gus came out as soon as he heard the car (not the golf cart) and the call "kit kit".   I saw him trotting down the road and thought he was putting some weight on his foot - but later he was limping quite badly.  Perhaps a ploy to get my sympathy.  The bad news is my digital camera broke and I have to send it back to Nikon for repair so this leaves me with just the digital video.  But since that's all I've had in previous years, I guess I can manage.   Got some video of Gus tonight.

Aug 20

Gypsy waiting tonight.  No sign of Gilda, no sign of Gus.

Aug 21

Harriet and I went back in the golf cart this morning and left goodies for Gus, but no sign of him.  Harriet wanted to say good-bye to him as she leaves today, but he didn't have the good manners to show up. 

This evening I left just a little dog kibble at the log den site as no one was there.  I didn't want to leave lots of food which might encourage absentee (me being the absent one) visits.  I went on to the back of the woods and left a little kibble on the circle road where Gus has been appearing.  No sign of him.   I drove the circle so the sun would be at my back and as I neared where the food had been left, saw him eating.  I called "kit kit" and he came limping closer to the car.  Tossed out the rest of the turkey giblets to him, the turkey back that still had some stuffing stuck to it, as well as a few fruit loops, and a piece of bread.  He limped around and ate it all.  His limp is worse.  His left rear leg just hangs and he has absolutely no use of it.  He can't even use it to brace himself.  I took lots of video for Tom to see and diagnose (I hope).  I also think his coat looks worse; quite dull and shabby.  It's funny how quickly it faded in just a few days.  He really tugged at my heart strings tonight as he didn't want me to leave.  Everytime I backed the car up a few feet, (throwing a little kibble out each time) he came closer.  He usually kept anywhere from 8 to 10 feet between us.  I had backed up almost to the junction of the main road (where there's a clearing I can turn around in) and he kept following.  I finally just stopped and let him come close.  I talked and talked, told him he was loved, that he was a handsome creature, etc.  He sat and listened.  I finally made ready to leave as I wanted to check on the log den site.  As I turned and pulled away I nearly wept as he was struggling along on 3 legs to keep up with the car.

Returned to the log den site and Gypsy was waiting.  Gosh he's looking good.  From looking so shabby last month, he's really becoming well turned out.  His coat looks shiny, he's put on some weight, and his tail is starting to straighten out.  He is about 2/3 the size of Gus.  No sign of Gilda.

Aug 22

In my encounters with Gus, my eye has been to the camera so I have not been looking at him very intently.  Last night I viewed the video tape and saw some pretty extensive damage to the fox.  The left flank is completely bare - on the video it looked like it was raw and open.  The left foot is held high and not used at all - not even for balance.  The right flank is also bare but not as raw as the left flank.   The right leg has been injured, but is able to at least support some weight. 

Tom went with me this morning when I went back in the golf cart to give Gus his breakfast.  He also took the binoculars in order to see 'up close and personal'.  While the situation is bad, it's not quite as bad as the video looked.  The right flank has a light covering of downy hair, showing that it is growing back.  The left flank, while bare, is not as open and raw as the video indicated; either that, or some overnight healing has started.  The left rear leg (the one held high) is completely bare on the outside, but has normal fur on the inside.  We have absolutely no idea what could have caused this injury.  It almost looks as if he had been in a fire . . . except the tail has no loss of hair.  It looks somewhat like mange, except mange usually starts on the inside of the leg which is not the case with Gus.  Plus, the pattern is wrong.  We even wondered if he could have been hit by lightening (bad storm a few days ago) until I mentioned I had seen him limp before.  However, we don't know if the leg injury corresponds to the bare flanks.  Such a mystery.  In any case, Gus didn't seem particularly hungry this morning.  Plus, his right leg kept giving out.  He might have had a busy night trying to hung.   He finished what I had put out and came trotting up to the golf cart.  I threw out some milk bone which he sniffed, ignored, turned his back, and limp/trotted away.

Tonight I took Tom's fish leavings and some bread, as well as a little dry cat food.  He never showed up.

I went to the log den site such as the heavens opened and it poured.  I called "kit kit" and Gypsy came out of the brush and seemed delighted with dry cat food and some bread.  I appreciated his appearance despite the weather, so tossed in a few fruit loops for dessert.  Still no sign of Gilda.  I'm beginning to wonder if our area was a bachelor pad and Gilda should be called Gilbert and has done the usual male August dispersal.

Aug 23

Gertrude went back with me in the golf cart this morning to check on Gus.  She had some steak bones and hot dogs to contribute.  Gus came out as soon as he heard me call "kit kit".   Nothing has changed regarding his limp - tho the left flank looks a little better.  Tom wonders if he wasn't hit by a car; the tire's rubber taking off the hair of one flank, and the asphalt scrubbing the opposite flank bare.  It certainly seems to explain things.  Also why he's so far back in the woods - just about as far from the road as you can get.  The left foot hangs, but the left stifle (knee) seems static - as if it's frozen in that position.  This would indicate the injury is not a recent one.  Gertrude thinks the hip looks out of joint, but I can't tell.   Anyway, Gus was most appreciative of his steak breakfast.  He gathered as many bone and steak bits as his mouth would hold and disappeared into the woods.   No doubt caching them for later.  He then returned and cleaned up the rest of the offering; yes, kibble.  When he was through, he did the same thing he has done for the past 2 days.  Came close to the golf cart, posed front-on, then turned to the left, then the right, (all this taking about 2 minutes) and then trotted into the woods.  I misunderstood yesterday and tossed milk bone to him thinking he wanted more to eat.  Now I'm beginning to understand it's his way of saying good-bye.

I went early to feed tonight as I'm pretty tired.  Baked pies, cookies, and bread today.  Gypsy came running as soon as he heard the sound of the car.  I'm leaving much less food as Gilda is not appearing.  After eating a half slice of bacon, some bread and kibble, Gypsy reverted to his old ways and came and curled up next to the car.  We talked - or rather I talked and he listened (my favorite kind of conversation) until I had to leave.  Company coming for dessert tonight so had best get home.  I didn't go back to check on Gus.  He had about 200 - 250 calories in the food we left this morning; at least one-third of his daily requirement.  There's plenty of berries and bugs and I don't want him relying on me.  Winter will be here and if he's to make it through until next spring, he will have to learn to hunt on three legs.  Tough love is SO HARD.

Aug 24

What an exciting morning.  Tom was mowing the lanes in the back woods with the tractor and the brushcutter.  I left some ham trimmings and scalloped potatoes on the circle road and positioned myself to view Gus' appearance.  In the distance I could hear the noise of the tractor on the lower spring road.  Suddenly a very healthy looking red fox sprang from the trees in the circle, leaped across the road in three bounds and disappeared into the trees on the other side.  (Eventually those trees border the lower spring road.)  This fox was obviously curious about the noise.  As the noise waned (Tom cutting a strip in the other direction) the fox returned to the circle road, sniffed the food, passed it up and went into the trees.   Just then Gus came out of the woods (circled by the road) right by the golf cart.  I could have reached out and touched him.  He ate slowly and deliberately.  Just then the noise of the tractor got louder as Tom was making another pass on the lower spring road in the direction of the circle road.  Gus moved closer to the side of the road in case he needed the protection of the trees, but again the other red   dashed across the road to see what the noise was.  Gus was wary, but not alarmed.  He contined to eat, not even bothering to look up or around.  The other red came and posed in the middle of the road. I got a good look; it was Gumdrop!  Now either she and Gus have mated, or else she's a good girl and is taking care of the old man.  In either case, if I hadn't recognized her markings, I would have recognized her bouancy and playfulness - neither of which Gus was having any part.  I got some good video of the two of them.  She was up the road and Gus stayed by me looking at her with great puzzlement as she attacked a leaf.  She did, however, show absolutely no interest in the food.  Each time the sound of the tractor got close she had to go look.   I asked Tom later if he realized he had been under observation; he hadn't.  Gus finished and went back into the trees.

This evening I had to make a fast log den feed.  Gypsy came out as soon as I appeared.  He took some Italian bread cubes and cached it.  I tried to get some video but the clover is too high and nothing shows except his hind end and the clover.

Aug 25

Had church this morning and a dinner tonight so did my catering rounds mid afternoon.  Did see any vulpine friends.

Aug 26

Went back in the golf cart this morning to check on Gus, but didn't see him.  Left him some dry cat food and a couple of windfall apples I had picked up on the way.

Tonight went back to the circle road first and the dry cat food was gone, but the windfall apples were still there.  I guess the foxes on this farm don't like apples.  I threw out some meatloaf bits that had stuck to the pan and some kibble, called "kit kit" and out came Gus.  The right rear leg looks steadier - at least it isn't letting him down (or wasn't tonight).  This fox is NOT hungry.  Therefore, I shall leave less.  He ate the ham bits, crunched one nugget of kibble, and then just came up by the car and stood, and finally sat.  I can't believe he's willing to get so close to the car if, in fact, his injury is due to an auto.   In any case, he seemed to be content to listen to me natter.  He tried another nugget of kibble and then sat in the middle of the road, curled up, and began to groom himself.  He spent quite a bit of time licking the bare left flank.  I don't know why he came out, since he obviously does not need food.   Unless I'm deluding myself, I really think it's purely social.

Went on to the log den site and no one was there.  Have decided I'm not leaving food unless there is a sighting.  I called "kit kit" and Gypsy came crashing out of the brush.   He was so close to the car I couldn't have opened the car door without hitting him.  Now - get this.  I threw out some kibble along with a few fruit loops and Gypsy ate the kibble first!!!  He was pleased with the meat loaf bits but seemed to relish the kibble.  The mosquitos were buzzing around, so I backed up the hill to higher ground where the breeze could blow them away.  Gypsy disappeared for about 7 or 8 minutes.  I was just getting ready to leave, when Gypsy appeared with Gilda in tow.  I think he actually went and got her.  I left very little food tonight thinking just one fox would be "grazing".  Gilda gave me some good video shots before melting into the brush.  It was windy tonight and both foxes seemed nervous.  I've noticed that this is common behaviour when it's gusty, so perhaps they are getting an overload of smells.

I'm happy that I got a "hat trick" tonight - but it would have really been terrific if I had seen Gumdrop too.  I'm not too greedy!

Aug 27

I've eliminated my morning trip back to Gus.  He appears well fed enough that an evening treat should be sufficient.  Tonight I noticed that the windfall apples from yesterday are gone.  Either Gus or a raccoon must have eaten them.  He enjoyed the kibble tonight and spent a little time listening to me chat.  The hair on the left flank seems to be growing in - just a little beyond the fuzz stage.  The hock of the injured left leg is bare, however.  He seemed tired tonight.  Sat down more often as if the right rear leg just couldn't take the weight tonight.  His coat is pretty shaggy, but doesn't look too dull. 

Gypsy was waiting at the log den.   Gosh he looks good.  Has completely shed out now so you see he muscular little body.  He's very small, but in fantastic shape.  His coat just glistens.  (All that nutritional kibble.)  Tonight he had a couple of fried potato pieces and dry cat food - 3 flavors.  He has completely adjusted to eating 'animal' food.   I left a little more tonight in hopes that Gilda would show up again - which she did about 8 minutes after Gypsy left.  Talk about a fox in prime condition!  Her coat glistens in the light, the silver hairs just shimmer.  It's pretty hard for her to be inconspicuous as the white tip of her coal black tail shows up no matter how deep in the brush she is.  Gypsy actually left some food for her - enough to keep her 'hunting' for 10 - 15 minutes.  I scatter it when I toss it out so they will have to search in the grass and weeds for it.

Aug 28

Gus prefers kibble to baked potato skins.  However, the fried chicken remains went first.

Gypsy, however, preferred the potato skins to the kibble.  And, of course, the fried chicken was number one in the menu order.  No sign of Gilda, but I didn't wait very long.

Aug 30

Had two of my house guests with me.  It was raining lightly, but dear Gus did come out and get his treats.  He seemed to be moving very stiffly; rain? arthritis?  Anyway, he still hadn't eaten the broccoli by the time we left.  We moved on to the log den where Gypsy came running up to greet us.  He performed beautifully - running to both sides of the car, doing little jumps as if to see inside, sitting down and then jumping up again.  My guests were bsolutely entranced.   He, too, left the broccoli.  Finally Gilda came and strutted - really strutted - up and down the path from one feeding area to the other.  (They are about 20 feet apart.)  It was as if she knew she was on display and she was striding up and down the "catwalk" to make the most of it.   Alas, she also ignored the broccoli.   We had to leave for a concert so didn't take the time to wait and see if Gum Drop might show up.

Aug 31

Gus came out as soon as the car appeared.  The broccoli from last night was still in the road.  He had bread and pork bits tonight, along with some kibble.  My guests being in the car didn't bother him at all.   Suddenly, GumDrop streaked across the road.  What joy she takes in running.  Gus looked up and then resumed his eating.

Gypsy was not waiting for us, so I left a minimum of dry cat food and we went on to our appointment.

Sep 1

Gus, Gypsy and Gilda all appeared.   Broccoli still drying in the road. Left windfall apples for Gus.

Sep 2

Broccoli still in the road, but apples were eaten.  Gus not sure what to expect next as we fed an hour early as my guests and I were invited out for dinner.  However, he showed up immediately upon the first call of "kit kit".  The fur on his flanks is coming in nicely and covers the bare skin; however, the outside of his left (injured) leg is still bare of any fur tho the skin doesn't seem as raw as earlier. No sign of Gypsy and Gilda - so I didn't leave any food.  No view, no food.

After dinner - about an hour and a half after our usual feeding time, we were home and decided to go back again to give the foxes a chance to say good-bye to my friends.  Gus, thoroughly confused, gamely appeared again at the sound of the car and "kit kit" and tried to appear grateful for some hard stale bread.  His right leg just didn't support him tonight; I'm hoping it's because he had a strenuous hunt and had stressed it.  No sign of Gypsy or Gilda on our second trip back so stuck to my guns and left no food.

Sep 3

Poor Gus; he'd go with the program if only I would let him know what it was.  Got back at my usual time tonight and left food in the two usual spots on the circle road.  He was eating at the first drop as I was throwing out kibble at the second.  Then, instead of completing the circle and coming back to the starting point (my usual position with the sun at my back for picture taking) I decided to back up.  Gus just stared as if to say "What on earth is she doing now?"   It's difficult for me to back around a circle with a fox in the middle of the road and avoid it, so after crashing into several saplings and making much noise, Gus solved the problem by melting into the woods.  I finally positioned myself and gave the usual "kit kit" cry.  He didn't return.  Probably is hoping I'll settle down by tomorrow.

Got to the log den area and Gypsy was waiting.  He was windmilling his tail so hard in a joyful greeting he nearly twisted himself into a knot.  He came up to the car door and got some dry cat food which he relished; obviously, as his eyes were closed, head back, and chewing so rapturously that crumbs were spilling from his mouth.  I scolded him for not saying good-bye to our house guests and he indicated he had learned his lesson by the absence of a food drop, and our conversation turned to more pleasant things such as mice, voles, and his probably choice of a bride this winter.  I let the car roll for about 30 feet and left food at the second site which is where Gilda usuall comes out.  I barely backed the car up the hill a few feet when Gilda appeared.  I guess she can tolerate the car closer now. 

Suddenly Gypsy alerted, posed, and finally pointed. He was stretched out with his nose and tail extended and his right paw lifted.  He made some joyful leaps into the brush.  Gilda placidly continued to eat for a couple of minutes, and then she too alerted and crashed into the brush.  The white tip of her black tail is so visible that I could see it wagging frantically - but never saw at what.  I waited, hoping Gum Drop might appear, but when nothing happened I drove on.  I noticed Gypsy leaping out of the brush and running after the car.  He caught up to the driver's side door and I just had to toss him some hamburger bun for being so appealing.

P.S.  Broccoli very dry and shrinking, but still in the road.

Sep 5

Gus' leg looks really bad.  There is a raw spot on the hock, though I really do think he's not carrying the stifle as high as before.  He coat looks terribly shabby and the once magnificent, noble beastie now looks rather pathetic.  He waits in the circle road and is out in an instant whenever I arrive.

On the other hand, Gypsy looks better and better.  He now waits in the lane for me.  Guess one night without food was a good lesson.  Gilda still shy, but getting plenty of treats as Gypsy is careful to leave what he doesn't like for her.

Sep 6

No sign of Gus.  He ALWAYS comes when I call "kit kit" or he hears the car.  Waited for about 15 minutes and kept calling.  Nothing.  Went on to the log den area and no sign of Gypsy nor Gilda.  That Gilda wasn't there didn't surprise me, but Gypsy has been so faithful since that one time.  Returned to the circle road and everything I had left for Gus was still there.  Now the ominous news . . . plenty of coyote scat through the lanes.  It's dispersal time for them too, but a critter bigger than a juvenile coyote left these droppings.  In fact, a very very very large one.  I hope the foxes are just staying away and haven't been harmed.  I fear for Gus.

Sep 7

Gertrude and I went back in the woods in the golf cart this morning to check on Gus.  More coyote scat in the lanes.  Got to the circle road and all the food I had left last night was gone, but whether eaten by fox or raccoon or other critter who's to know.  Gertrude had some ham bits and fish sticks with her which we left.  I drove the golf cart about 40 feet away, called "kit kit" and waited.  Called several times within a 5 - 6 minute time span, when suddenly Gus appeared from the other side of the road.  He did not look happy - and I don't blame him since it was high noon and no doubt in the middle of his nap.  However, we were so happy to see him we didn't care how grumpy he might be.  He sniffed the food, took some into the trees, came back and just nosed what was left.   This fox was NOT hungry.  I apologized for waking him and he trot/limped upto the golf cart as if to chastise me, but turned and left.  Gertrude thought his leg was hanging lower - the tip of the injured foot almost touches the ground now.

Tonight going back to check on Gus, I could see Gypsy waiting in the lane by the log den as we whizzed past on another lane.  Didn't leave any food last night since I didn't see him and there's nothing like going without your treat to keep you on your toes, little fox.  Left some good chicken giblets for Gus, but 10 minutes of calling and calling didn't bring him.  Tom was with me and is beginning to feel it must be him since he didn't come out last night when Tom was along.  I wonder if he's not just playing it safe and staying hidden because it's close to the time of night when the coyotes might be moving about.  It could be he doesn't want to leave a fresh scent anywhere.

Anyway, on to the log den and Gypsy nearly turned himself inside out with delight at seeing us.  He, too, got chicken giblets along with the normal dose of kibble.  He closed his eyes, head back, ears back, and shuddered (with ecstasy I assume) as he ate the chicken.  We waited for 15 minutes but no sign of Gilda.  I'll leave less food tomorrow night.  And, will leave no food for Gus unless I see him.  The no view-no food rule holds.

Sep 8

Well I lied.  I left food for Gus anyway.  I called and called and he never appeared.  Finally I drove around circle road hoping the sound of the car might attract him from wherever.  I had nearly completed the circle and was nearing the clearing when suddenly I saw a fox in the middle of the lane with it's back to me and looking toward the clearing.  This is a new fox - though obviously an adult.  It looked a little like Fudge (2000) might have looked grown up.  A gorgeous dark, dark, dark red - almost a dark henna color and an enormous tail.  I let the car idle about 50 feet from it and since I was downwind it didn't hear me.   I finally called "kit kit" and it turned, looked, leaped, and shot into the woods.  I pulled up to where it had been and called kit kit some more.  I could hear it in the trees so it didn't go too deep - but could see nothing.  I left a couple of pieces of chicken and drove on to where I usually meet Gus.  Food still there, and no Gus.  What I have noticed the past two nights, however, is that the mushrooms in the woods are popping up all over the place.  I don't know much about them, but I do know experts have told us we have "magic" mushrooms in goodly supply.  These fungi that I'm seeing also have teeth marks on them as if a passing animal will stop and nibble for awhile.  Now if Gus has been into these, he's stoned out of this world.  I can see see him with gold chains around his neck, bell bottoms, tie-dyed shirt, saying "hey, what's happenin' baby?"  I'll check on him tomorrow morning.

Gypsy was waiting - and lo and behold, so was Gilda.  Gosh Gypsy is small.  Half the size of Gilda.  If he weren't so muscular and well developed I'd say he's the size of a 4 or 5 month old pup.   Gilda looks huge next to him.

Sep 9

No sign of Gus.  Guess I'll have to give him up.  Checked this morning and again tonight.,

Gypsy was out and charming.  Gilda was a no-show.

Leave for Chicago tomorrow for a week so Tom will take over.

Sep 17

I'm back on PEI now. Tom fed faithfully while I was gone, but it rained most nights so he just dropped the food and left.  Gypsy was the only one he saw.

Went back to the circle road tonight just in case, but after waiting 20 minutes and no sign of Gus I guess I'll really have to face reality and not expect to see him anymore.  The good news is, there are no new signs of coyotes so I hope they were just passing through.

When I got to the log den Gypsy ran up to the car dancing with great abandon.  His rear end nearly met the front end he was jumping and twisting so.   Had some chicken bits tonight and he came right to the car door.  I almost expected him to stand on his hind legs and paw at the door with his front legs . . . but he's better mannered than that.  I talked while he ate and he listened, not always attentively.  I dropped some chicken and kibble at Gilda's spot (that Gypsy cleans up before she gets there) and then backed up into the field about 10 feet.  Usually Gilda won't come out unless I'm considerably farther back, but tonight she made a spectacular jump over some Goldenrod and landed in the lane.  Ta Da!!!  Gypsy had already made away with the chicken but Gilda enjoyed the kibble.  She was feeling feisty tonight and tried to get Gypsy to play, but he wouldn't.  I don't think I've ever seen him engage in hi jinks just for the fun of it.  Got some good video.  Nikon tells me my digital still camera will be fixed by the end of the week and they will ship it to Canada for me to use again.

Sep 18

Gypsy was the only one out for tonight's social hour.  His tail is now carried like a proper fox tail and not a crank shaft.  My, he's turning out to be fine looking.

Sep 19

Strange behavior tonight.  Had two steak bones, some carrots, some baked potato as well as a little kibble.  Left it in the usual two places by the log den.  Gypsy was waiting and immediately made off with a steak bone.  I could see him caching it half-way up the field.  He returned and sampled everything at spot #1.  He then moved to spot #2 about 30 feet away.  He came upon the second steak bone (intended for Gilda) and promptly brought it out into the lane and chewed some of the meat from it.  He then left it in the lane and investigated the other goodies at that spot.  (more potato, carrot, kibble)  He went back to the bone, picked it up, and very deliberately moved it about 6" away and set it down again.  He returned to spot #1, grazed there for awhile and then left.  I waited for another 20 minutes and no one showed up.  Since I had dinner guests at the house waiting for dessert, I couldn't wait any longer.  Now why would he leave a perfectly good bone in a very obvious place?  And leave so much food behind?  He obviously expected Gilda - or someone - to show up and was leaving things for them.  Unheard of behavior in a predatory animal.

Sep 20

Both Gilda and Gypsy were out tonight. They both came at my call of "kit kit". A high wind was blowing which made both animals very, very nervous.  Got some good video footage of how quirky they become in wind gusts.   Every weed blowing becomes a serious threat and they run off at the speed of light.  (Well, almost.)  A threw out a few fruit loops with their chicken bits and dry cat food tonight.   As Gypsy was starting and darting at the movement of the Goldenrod, a Blue Jay came out of the tree and started eating the fruit loops.  This was almost more than Gypsy could take.  He was alarmed at the movement of the critter . . . but to have it eating the first sweet thing that had been served in weeks overcame his cautiousness.   He went back to the spot - and darned if the Blue Jay didn't fly at him to head him off.  Gypsy gave up.  However, the bird only took 5 or 6 pieces and then tired of it all and flew away.  Gilda almost takes my breath away she is so gorgous.  She is allowing the car much much closer.  I park just about 10 - 12 feet away from the feeding area now. 

Sep 21

Gypsy was waiting as usual.  Took a piece of chicken, ate it, and disappeared into the brush.  Came back with Gilda.  She seems to need a special invitation.  They ate together in harmony for a while - and both stopped, nonplussed as the cheeky blue jay came out of the trees at spot #1 and started eating the dry cat food.  The foxes stared for a while, I could see them mentally shaking their heads, and Gypsy finally casually trotted down the lane the 30' to spot #1.  The blue jay promptly flew up, landed on a branch just above spot #2 (where Gilda was still grazing).  Gypsy finally came back to that spot and all three - 2 foxes, 1 bird, seemed to eat in harmony.   Gypsy eventually sauntered away; almost as if he had become bored with the whole thing.  He never returned, but Gilda finished everything off in good form.  She knows she's being watched and seems to take delight in teasing with provocative views.   That girl should be a stripper.

Sep 22

Going to a birthday party tonight so fed early.  No view.

Sep 23

Another windy night; a storm is on its way.  Both foxes were waiting as if to say "lets get this over with before the rain hits".  They were pretty easily startled.  At one point the wind gusted and two branches of a tree rubbed against each other making a moaning sound.  Gypsy crouched, ready to run, and Gilda didn't waste any time.  Took a leap over Gypsy and away she went.  This spooked Gypsy who took off in the opposite direction.  Both returned to finish a delicious meal of week old chicken and kibble.

Sep 26

All has been as usual for the past several days.  Tonight Gilda showed unusual bravery in coming out of the brush onto the lane to feed.  She reminds me of a high spirited race horse as she trots up and down.  Gypsy is the same old loveable feeding machine.

Sep 28

Nothing out of the ordinary is happening.  Both Gypsy and Gilda show up, with Gypsy not allowing many distractions from his feed while Gilda starts at a falling leaf.  However, she is getting braver and not objecting to the presence of the car.  My neighbor who feeds them during the winter went along tonight and is amazed at how good they both look.  Gypsy is getting his winter coat faster than Gilda which makes him look almost as big as she is.

Sep 30

As is usually the case, Gypsy was out waiting for us.  (Us being my neighbor and me)  He was not hungry at all but nosed around the bread, scrambled egg and kibble.  He's had bones two nights in a row now and how quickly they get spoiled.  He kept disappearing into the brush and I explained to Gertrude (neighbor) that he frequently does that and eventually reappears with Gilda.  And so it was tonight.  On the third trip into the brush she finally came out with him.  She is still wary, and starts easily, but is comfortable with the car parked within 10 feet.  She'll often look over at us as if to see if we approve of her latest fetching pose.  Gypsy bored quickly and took off, leaving Gilda the rest of the banquet.  The minute Gypsy left, the Blue Jay came down and started eating the bread and kibble.  Gilda jumped and ran, but returned when she realized it was her "feeding friend".  My neighbor was amazed that the bird didn't call the others, which she claims is what the jays usually do.  This bird is smart; he found it and isn't sharing.

Last night we surprised a pheasant in the back fields on the other side of the brook.  It could have cared less that the car was 100 times its size.   It kept its spot in the lane until it was finished and I could darn well wait.