My uncle, Ed, writes from Bent Mountain:

[…] We’ve also been harvesting chipmonks. These demons have been tearing up Francoise’s flower garden, so we got a trap and began to trap them. Each one trapped is released into Diablo’s custody on the screened porch for punishment. Punishment has been severe for all eight. We saw another late this afternoon, so I moved the trap back out front and feel confident that Diablo will have one to sentence by noon tomorrow. I just wish it was as easy with the deer. Or the bears. We were awakened again a couple of nights ago, the dogs going bonkers. A big bear was at the front bird feeder, looking for a meal. I bring the feeders in at night, so he was disappointed. But we watched him for a bit before he wandered off. We think it was a bit smaller than the one that had been coming. At least this one didn’t come up onto the porch. If he does, there is a 12-guage shot gun waiting for him. I don’t like the idea of shooting a bear, especially a big one, but will if he becomes a threat. I’ve heard that a wounded bear can be a problem. […]

tags: friends & family