I love to create and maintain small habitats—to see up close the activities of insects and birds. At first glance, the crepe myrtle tree is merely loaded with fluffy blossoms. But with a closer look, I see it is alive with bees. Fuzzy-looking bumble bees poke in between the petals while honeybees zip around, dipping in for their share of nectar.
Their next stop is the deep pink rhododendron that shows off the bumbles’ shiny black. The butterfly bush, also called summer lilac, entices a magnificent array of colorful butterflies and moths. They fly in, land on a blossom and stay while wafting their wings and feeding. Usually, they land on the side of the bush closest to the fence. I might have missed them had I not peeked behind and spotted their safety zone.
Every year, dragonflies come to oversee the vegetable garden. I never knew until I watched closely how vibrant their colors can be.
Unfortunately, my vegetable garden has become the late-night-diner for a local rat. The pesky critter leaves evidence, so I know my ministrations of essential oil spray aren’t working. The weather in California has been excessively hot for weeks. Gallons of water have gone into the ground to sustain a rat.
Next year I might opt for a flower garden only.
When my frustration reached its peak, I reminded myself that my small scale, backyard oasis helps me remember to pay attention to obscure details. The subtle hidden minutiae of living things. A soft whirring sound causes me to look over to see a beautiful tiny Anna’s hummingbird drinking from the waterfall fountain. The whoosh of a male gray hawk's wings as he flew four feet over my head, right before he landed on the fence above me. I slowly laid down my clippers, tried not to breathe loudly and watched him watch. His long, pointed talons gripped the top of the fence as his bright eyes surveyed the yard.
I only wish the rat had happened by.
These living creatures allow me to see them as long as I remain quiet and respectful. I enjoy covertly watching them in their uninhibited state, recognizing that if I hadn't paid attention, I might never have witnessed the complicated beauty of these natural inhabitants. These are beautiful, formidable survivors. We all can learn from their resourcefulness and tenacity. They aren’t merely pests, rather an invitation to look closely at bushes and plants, so that we might see what’s inside.
All the Best,
Corliss
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