PBS

On Wednesday evening during our dinner hour, Bud and I watch PBS. One of our favorite programs is NATURE. A few weeks back, they aired a "New" episode on the Panda Bear. Pandas - Born in the Wild. It followed the research and care of Panda bears, raising cubs to eventually be released into the wild Bamboo forests. But, near the end of the 45 minute program, the same researchers were out IN the wild searching for new born pandas. After weeks out in the open land of their "Journey through the steep Qinling Mountains with filmmakers, scientists and rangers to witness pandas’ startling courtship and aggressive behaviors", they came upon an infant high up in a tree. When I saw the image on the screen, my heart burst. I took photos of those images with my phone. I have no intention of infringing the copyright; used just for an educational purpose on my blog. Anyway, during the few minutes of this open country search, it was revealed that baby pandas are left in the treetops as the mother goes hunting or perhaps breeding. Just to keep them safe from the male pandas, known to kill their own offspring...

Another episode, I believe it was last week, also a new one, was about the Australian fires and animal rescue. So sad, yet so compelling to think of all the rescue attempts [both successful and not so much] with the unique animals of the continent. Excellent and educational viewing. I recommend them to anyone that loves the wild!! What was most interesting that was brought to our attention was that kangaroos, during the bushfires, they would follow the fire line, and CROSS the fire into the already burned areas to evacuate...they most likely had a better chance of survival than those that would try to out-run the fire.

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A few months back I read a book review on a blogger's blog of one they just finished. Giving it a "thumbs up"! The other day, when I cleaned out my clothes closet that I do bi-annually, I took them to the donation station here in town and as I was walking out of the building, I saw the book...Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. I've read several chapters and have been enjoying it a lot. The dust jacket tells me it's part murder mystery. I think I have it figured out who killed Chase...but, I could be wrong. LOL I am using all my will power to read it in its entirety and not cheat and read the ending first before I finish. I will be surprised, I just know it!!  "A surprise ending is promised".

Panda bear images courtesy of PBS