....a rather unusual squirrel I spotted in Sunland Park. Don't know exactly why or what but it seems one of his incisors didn't line up properly, so over time it evolved into what you see. Squirrels, like other members of the rodentia clan have teeth that grow continuously throughout their lives and are worn down by the food they eat. If something were to happen to prevent this ( like our odd little friend here) the tooth would simply keep growning and eventually pose a risk to the animal. Hope that doesn't happen...I kinda like this wee fella.

A European Starling at his breakfast...

This delightful avian is one half of a pair that set up shop in Sunland Park. Ravens are alot less skittish than their smaller cousins and for the most part, alot smarter and this find fella is no exception.

My fave raven again. Think what I love most about this bird is it's capacity for play. While crows huddle together in a mob and fly off at the slightest disturbance, ravens won't even turn a hair at your approach and have been seen performing feats of aerial aerobics that would rival any stuntman. They divebomb, they do rolls in mid-air, they chase each other...in short, they're extraordinary critters.

This feisty featherball put on a helluva show the other morning...he displayed feats of aerial daring that would put a stunt pilot to shame!

Sitting at his window, contemplating what life would be like out there....

GOD these two love each other!

I'LL say! This furry doorstop flashes me a look of utter disdain and only allowed two snaps before flouting off in a huff...

My friendly neighborhood Phoebe posing for me in the park....

Judging from this guy's expression, I'd say he's a little bothered!

...I'll say!

Just a little further.....