Chipmunks – they are destructive little creatures! They continually dig tunnels in my backyard, they mercilessly torment my dog, and they gobble up the seed that is supposed to be for the birds. Still, instead of finding them frustrating or labeling them a nuisance, I find myself saying things like, “Aww, aren’t they cute?” And really, who doesn’t love a chipmunk?
This fellow showed up in my backyard the other day. Apparently he had heard about the “bath and beverage” special we were offering. Upon arriving, he scampered to the top of a rock at the edge of the fountain and made sure the coast was clear.
Then he looked around and listened for signs of danger – which by the way, does not include my dog, who stuffs his head down the hole they disappeared in and is completely unaware that they have emerged elsewhere and are watching him!
Next he sniffed the air – still making sure no predators were lurking about.
Then, once he felt sufficiently safe and secure, he stretched out like a slinky and lapped up some water.
After a refreshing drink, he took the time to give himself what we would call a “cat bath”, although I guess it must be a chipmunk bath too. Don’t you just love his little hands?
With his thirst quenched and his body bathed, he made his way over to the seed stump, where he loaded up his cheeks before darting back into his underground hideaway.
You have to admit, he is a cutie. And in spite of being a destructive derelict, he has an open invitation to hang out in my backyard. Not only does he provide me with a bit of entertainment, he gives my dog some much needed exercise!
Backyard Bird Nerd 
I like them, too!!
I loved this series!
You’re right, who could not love chipmunks? It must be wonderful to see them so close (in spite of the havoc..). Thank you for sharing.
Warm wishes,
Takami 🙂
And I would like to see some of the lions that you take pictures of!
Thanks for stopping in. 🙂
It’s so much fun to see your photos and your world through your lens, and I’ll definitely stop by again 🙂
I’ll put up some new lion cub photos soon 😉
That is one cute little guy. Looks like he can be full of mischief!
Alan
Alan – I think mischief is exactly the right word. Hope you have a blessed Thanksgiving.
Thank you Kathy. I wish you the same.
Alan
Your little chipmunk is a lot like this little acrobat. Hope this comes through.
Ha. That was fun!
It was fun to watch him run the obstacle course. They are such great athletes. They are so agile, can climb, jump, hang upside-down, amazing little creatures!
Thanks,
Alan
Nice post Kathy, you have a compassionate heart. Thanks! 🙂
Gorgeous pics! You are such an artist Kathy
Thanks you. Your words made me smile. 🙂
I keep coming back to take a look at this little fella! We don’t have them in Oz, he is so cute!
This is one of my favorite posts of all (and that’s saying something at your place!)
These critters have a soft spot in my heart! 🙂 You are a blessing!