Tate the Naturalist

I've mentioned before that Tate has a way with animals.  Wherever we go he finds something to observe, and usually catch.  Frogs,  crickets, salamanders, crabs, fish, starfish, etc.  All of this is great!  I love it!

I don't so much love his fascination with the reptile kindgom.  And the fact that reptiles make up a disproportionate amount of his catch.  I've mentioned the two snakes lately, (he informs me he got pictures of the second, a "really cute baby" about six inches long.  Yah.)

And the latest acquisition?

One of his favorites, another Northern Alligator Lizard.

The stumpy tail shows that he has recently done battle and escaped.

Tate says, They have a definite advantage in the rocks, where they crawl into cracks and hide.  But in open areas they can't escape.  So be careful not to make any noise stalking them in the rocks.

Good advice for all you alligator lizard hunters.

By the way, Tate says jokingly, I take my prisoners of war, interrogate them for a day or two, and then parole them back where they came from.

He's keeping a tally of all the creatures he catches this year.  So far, 2 snakes, 1 lizard, 1 frog.  I'll keep ya posted.