I had a treat today. I was enjoying the beautiful weather that has finally cooled down a bit in Ohio and to my surprise 12 deer came sauntering out of the woods to dine on the corn that I had put out not more than 15 minutes earlier. The mom with three rapidly growing fawns that I had previously posted was here… and another with twins, and probably the others… mature Does, all related. Very cool!
I’ve been observing lately one of the mature Does, most likely from last year based on her size, is very possessive with her corn and her territory around it. She does not like competition and is eager to show the others they’re not welcome and gives them the “Evil Eye” to drive them away as can be seen in this series below. If that doesn’t work it’s a paw to the head or body. Generally pretty effective. 🙀
Big or little it doesn’t matter… What’s hers is hers until she’s done. She even gave one of the fawns clunk in the nogen.
Anyway it was really fun seeing them casually enjoying a good snack. I hope you enjoy sharing in The Sunday Gathering.
Comments always welcome…..
Terry
The Evil Eye
NIKON Z6_3VR 200mm f/2G lens200mmf/5.61/400s1800 ISO0.0 EV
The Eviler Evil Eye
NIKON Z6_3VR 200mm f/2G lens200mmf/5.61/400s1800 ISO0.0 EV
So You Think I’m Kidding Evil Eye
NIKON Z6_3VR 200mm f/2G lens200mmf/5.61/400s2000 ISO0.0 EV
I Tried To Warn You
NIKON Z6_3VR 200mm f/2G lens200mmf/5.61/400s2200 ISO0.0 EV
Maybe If We Stay Real Close She’ll Leave Us Alone
NIKON Z6_3VR 200mm f/2G lens200mmf/5.61/400s2000 ISO0.0 EV
We’ll Just Stand Over Here until She’s Done
NIKON Z6_3VR 200mm f/2G lens200mmf/5.61/400s7200 ISO0.0 EV
douter wrote:
I'll bet it was thrilling to observe the herd, Terry! Loved 1 and 4 here. Is that a mineral block in the foreground of some of these?
Douglas
Hello Douglas… Hope you’re well! Thank you for stopping to take a look and yes, that is a sweetened mineral block with corn and other deer goodies in it. They really seemed to enjoy it because it disappears real quick. 😄 I have some good news to share with you, which I will PM you about after a while with the info.
birdied wrote:
What a sweet and amazing set ! They are amazing animals. Enjoyed each and everyone of the shots.
Birdie
Many thanks Birdie for the kind words. It was amazing to see 12 of them show up here. They do pass through with their babies or in small groups, but wow 12 at one time. There is obviously a pecking order there and the one who’s doing the provocation is not the largest one by any means. Just the feistiest one I suspect. One of the fawns is like that too he never sets still. Always suddenly jumping and running in some direction just to stop and wander back and start eating again. It’s a hoot to watch him. 🤣
nugeny wrote:
Quite a treat and a catch, It must have been quite exciting for you. Glad you caught them.
Bob
Hi Bob….thank you much…and yes it is a treat when we’re privileged to witness some of nature’s generally private interactions. I don’t think I’ve seen 12 deer total in all my years up until recent times in this area of Ohio. Even though we’re putting more and more pressure on them for a livable range, they amazingly find a way to survive and thrive. I feel very fortunate that they feel this comfortable here.
Erictator wrote:
Fun set Terry, thanks for sharing the experience with us. Sometimes I'll just lower my camera and take it all in, so I know how you feel.
Eric
Thank you Eric. Yes I too do a lot of just watching and not trying to photograph every moment that they are here…just for the joy of seeing them. I know exactly what you mean. 👍🏻
Karl Witt wrote:
Delightful images and great story Terry. Glad Nature is treating you to these opportunities!
There is always one in the bunch
Karl
Hi Karl. I’ll tell you this little girl wants the whole back yard to herself. 😳 I started putting the corn out in separate piles so that they wouldn’t have to compete over it, but she saunters over from the pile she’s eating at and pushes them off of theirs. Spoiled brat.
Oh well, there’s plenty out for them all. I think they’re learning to come at different times so they get a chance to eat in peace. 😁
