Figs, Feathers, and Fur

OK, OK, Uncle! I give up, I surrender.



Each summer I hungrily anticipate the first fig harvest from the garden. I had especially high hopes this year, thanks to my rabbits and their prodigious fertilizer supply. So, as the first fruits began to ripen, I did what I do every year......watch the birds and squirrels arrive with all of their relatives to feast on the fruits of my labor.



A vow was made that this year would be different. I declared war. I scaled brick walls, precariously perched ladders, and wobbly chairs to spread three sheets of bird netting over the fig tree. I felt confident, almost arrogant, that this summer I would be the one feasting.



But, alas, two days later I realized that me and my nets were greatly outnumbered and outmaneuvered. The nets were pulled down and ripped up. Partially eaten figs were strewn around the ground. But, I persevered. Out came a big yellow balloon thingy with big black circles that are suppose to look like eyes and scare the critters away. They were not impressed. Then the scarecrow was added. I even perched it atop a trellis railing so that it would be at tree top level. Again, nothing. So, I give up.



Now any gardener knows that when you plant crops, you should plant enough to "share" with the outdoor residents. And I'm OK with that. Really. But, when are the other guys gonna get the memo? They don't seem very interested in sharing, unless you happen to be interested in half eaten fruit discarded on the ground.



And, that's another thing- they don't even finish eating one piece before they move on to another one. What's up with that? Oooops, here I go again........