Hazel & Fern

There are a pair of rabbits that hang out in this little thicket next to the river. They forage along the edge, seldom venturing more than a few feet away from cover. I was walking along the trail the other day and came upon them foraging. Their instinct is to stay stone-still. I took a couple quick photos as they stood absolutely motionless. I decided to keep walking so they could hop into the bushes where they feel safe and can relax. I looked back after a few steps and one had already disappeared. The other one waited until I was probably fifty feet away before it moved into the bushes. They have large eyes and ears that are acutely tuned into the sights and sounds in their environment. There are many predators out at the arboretum, so they need to be aware. Whenever I see them, it reminds me to check in with my surroundings - listening to the river, feeling the wind, watching for birds, smelling the earthly scents in the air and tasting the yummy snacks from my pack.