Sunday, July 26, 2009

Gone Snuffling


There really is nothing to match an early morning visit to the woods.

I like to trot down to my local woods early on a Sunday morning and indulge in three of my favourite hobbies: talking to my woodland friends, having a go on the rides in the playground, and snuffling.

Now, if you are a bear, you will not need me to tell you what snuffling is, but I do have some human fans and it is possible that they may need the term explained.

Snuffling is the name we give to the fascinating business of pootling about in undergrowth, around old logs and up trees. There is always something new to divert one's attention. Autumn is an especially good time for snuffling, as there are invariably several big piles of leaves on the ground - ideal for snuffling in.

Here are some photographs of me snuffling, to give you the general idea.

Here I am having a good snuffle around some old logs.

And here I am snuffling in some pretty pink flowers.

Here I stopped snuffling for a moment so I could have my picture taken, but as soon as it was done I had an especially good snuffle in these leaves.

You won't be able to see me in this picture because I am hiding behind the tree on the left.

As I said, another good thing about the woods is that there are always friends around to talk to.
Here I am sharing some breakfast with my friend Samuel. Most of the other squirrels call him Sammy but I think that sort of informality can often lead to loss of respect.

This is when Samuel and I were joined by three pigeons who, reasonably enough, liked the look of our breakfast. We were happy to share, but in this picture you see me giving them a stern lecture on the subject of good manners and the importance of waiting one's turn. As you see, the two on the right are listening attentively, but the one on the left proved quite incorrigible.

My local woods are especially good because they have a playground area, where the most marvellous fun may be had free of charge.
On the swings...

... the slide ...

... and on this. Not sure what it is exactly, but it provides first-class amusement.

So that was my guide to the woods. I look forward to meeting you again soon.

Sincerely,
Mr Orso Bear, Esq.

7 comments:

B.T.Bear (esq.) said...

Ah yes, I enjoy a good snuffle!
Did you hav a poo wile yu wer in the woods? I hav my fayvrit tree for this. A fine oak, an it has a nice mossy bit to sit on. Oh! An sum nice dok leevs neerby for wipeability. Hehehehee!!

:@}

Sir Woodstock said...

Good morning Mr Orso!

I am very impressed with your snuffling technique!
I am still waiting on Mother to take me out, let alone to the woods.
I just manage to snuffle the odd garden flower but the Spring Celendines brought on my Hayfever very badly!

Regards & Hugs
Woodstock

Buttons the Bear said...

Orso,
Looks like you had a great time outdoors. The playground photos are especially nice. The slide looks especially fun, but perhaps a tad warm on the backside fur.

Buttons

Orso Bear, Esq said...

Robert -
I always feel that a fellow's sanitary arrangements are his own private realm. But as it's you asking, no - I use the lavatory at home.

Sir Woodstock -
Thank you for visiting my site, sir. You must impress upon your mother the importance of fresh air to a bear. Woods are part of our heritage. Snuffling, tea-parties and rides on swings are just not the same indoors.

Buttons -
The playground is marvellous fun to an adventurous bear. Don't worry about the slide. I went at 7.30 in the morning, before it had a chance to 'warm up', as it were.

Buttons the Bear said...

Orso,
I guess going that early also guarantees no queue for the slide either.

Thanks for stopping by my blog and leaving such a nice comment.
Buttons

Miss Sandra said...

Looks like you had a grand time!!
Sandra

Orso Bear, Esq said...

I did indeed, Miss Sandra.
Thank you for visiting.
Sincerely,
Orso Bear, Esq.