The camera trap along the rim of the plateau
has been in the right place at the right time for a number of months. Earlier
videos were in previous posts – the one with the bobcat trying and failing to
catch a gray squirrel was especially satisfying.
Here’s a selection of the latest videos –
The jumble of boulders, outcrops and
overhangs on the steep slope below the camera seems to be prime habitat for
one or more bobcats; a photograph or video of a bobcat has been on the camera’s
memory card at every check.
The rabbit in this video may well be an Appalachian
cottontail since the site’s elevation and habitat, which contains significant
amounts of mountain laurel, huckleberries and blueberries and a few conifers, are
those preferred by these rabbits. Appalachian cottontails are a species of
concern in Pennsylvania; white-tailed deer compete for the browse that the
rabbits rely on for winter food and eastern cottontails compete for summer
foods. Unfortunately, without a DNA test there’s no way to know if it was an
Appalachian cottontail or just a wayward eastern cottontail in a large area of
dense woodland.
The white-footed mouse that ran down the branch stub didn’t hang around for
long – a wise move with the bobcat paying regular visits.
Eastern coyotes form lifelong pair bonds and the pair in the video appeared at the peak of breeding season – in mid-February on a foggy morning after a freezing rain. These weren't the first coyotes caught by a camera at this site.
Eastern coyotes form lifelong pair bonds and the pair in the video appeared at the peak of breeding season – in mid-February on a foggy morning after a freezing rain. These weren't the first coyotes caught by a camera at this site.
The rim of the Allegheny Plateau
has been a productive place for a camera trap, what will the future hold?
Enjoyed those. Great sequence of the deer walking through. Reminds me of so many deer trails I've seen.
ReplyDeleteWonderful to see how many creatures inhabit this part of the woods. I was especially impressed with how still that deer stood. Like a statue! I thought the video had stalled until I noticed the other deer continuing to move about. Thanks for sharing these photos of animals we would otherwise never get to see.
ReplyDeleteHello, great captures and slideshow. I love the Bobcat, bunny and deer!
ReplyDeleteThank you for linking up and sharing your post. Happy Saturday, enjoy your weekend!
Hello. It is awesome that there are so many animals in that same area... Wonderful! And great video!
ReplyDeleteI love watching your videos. The wildlife out there is so special to see. Sometimes the camera trap is the only way to get close to them.
ReplyDeleteSuch a mix of critters. Have none of them sniffed your camera?
ReplyDelete