Neighborhood Outlaws

Last summer, the deer were fruitarians - we were lucky to get the two strawberries they left.

The strawberries are "everbearing", too - not that we could verify that, since they disappeared on a weekly basis. Leaves, berries and blossoms - all the deer left were stems, to taunt us.

They rarely nipped any veggies, and only topped the nasturtiums and roses a few times.

This year they are confirmed vegetarians. Haven't touched the strawberries - which I had decided not to even weed, why put in the effort? Of course.

So this summer we have NO green beans, most of the peas (for which this garden is famous) are pruned beyond salvage, and we just discovered some cabbage leaves with TEETH MARKS.

I heard them out there last night, romping around - but I know from sad experience, that by the time I can get to the door, the damage is done and they are off to the next sucker's (um - neighbor's - ) garden.

 Venison goes well with carrots and potatoes, I'd would be happy to remind these outlaws.

Speaking of outlaws. Racoons have a bad rap around here. But the next door neighbor's CATS have given "outlaw" a whole new definition, with a record number of bad marks in our Black Book. WAY more than the coons...

There are five cats living right next door. They eat our wild birds. They pee on the porch. They climb on the roof. The male, Buddy, has even sauntered into the house a couple of times when we have the door open.

Meet Buddy.  Yes, that is OUR bird bath.  In the front yard.  10 feet from the window.  Obnoxious beast.

Yes, he is taking a bath.  A moment before, he had his hind leg stretched out in typical cat-bath pose, grooming away.

I think mom may have just mentioned something about BB guns. Buddy has very good hearing...

and even better survival instincts.

I'm keeping the birdbath full of water now - see how he likes wet tail feathers.