The big coyote (Canis latrans) appeared at the edge of the path between Linne Doran and Mosswood Hollow.
He was beautiful, long-legged, and in fine condition with that happy canine grin that means the world is a good place today. I saw him at the same instant that I hit the ignition key, and he melted into the greenery. Ghost dog...
What does it mean when the same wild animal keeps appearing - in midday, and in places you don't expect to see one? In six weeks or so, I've seen 3 coyotes in 3 different places, and each has taken me by surprise. I've seen them before, of course. I've heard them howl - a sound that I love to hear in the evening. I've tracked them in Missouri, Oregon and here in Washington.
There just seems to be something mystical about my sudden ability to find them everywhere...or are they finding me?
The photo above is of the female I saw last month in McCormic Park. The first was along Cherry Valley Road as I went to the land for a staff meeting on a recent Sunday. This last one appeared at the end of the Plants for Food and Medicine course that I helped out at. Both of these appeared to be males. She's the only one I've seen when my camera was at hand...
I wonder if ghost dogs appear in pictures anyway?
It is a good idea to pay attention to an animal when it keeps showing up in your life. What teachings might Coyote be bringing you right now?
ReplyDeleteDo you remember the Wolf Honoring song? Try singing it to the next coyote you meet. :)