Big Kitty visits Off-grid Senior
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 ก.พ. 2025
- One adventure after another! A beautiful big kitty shows up in my yard!
I have been taken off guard and surprised by youtube subscribers wanting to donate to help me develop my property here. My belief is that such wonderful gestures shouldn’t be shunned in anyway. Can you imagine you refusing to open your presents at Christmas? I simply want to do whats right.
Some have requested to make donations to my off grid living project. Many thanks.
Paypal: ibwonet1@gmail.com
For those who asked I create an amazon wish list here it is: copy and paste
www.amazon.com...
For those who want to contact me:
affordabledesertliving@gmail.com
Thanks for watching!
Don K
"Never Cry Coyote" 😆😆😆 just don't eat mice😝that movie was a classic!
Farley Mowat worked as a student for the same organization I worked for. Canadian Wildlife Service. Thanks for watching Jane!
My neighbor had a mastiff pitt mix that tore through his large cage and tore through the drywall, insulation and siding and escaped the house. When the neighbor was around the dog was a cupcake, just a big silly puppy but when the neighbor wasn't around the dog became very insecure, nervous and aggressive. Anyway I opened my garage door and he came running up growling at me. I jumped into the backseat of my car and hit the garage door opener. Luckily he didn't come into my garage. I went upstairs and looked out the window to see him grab a girl by the back of her shirt. A neighbor scared him away and then he chased a family into their house, barking and hackles raised.
When the animal control officer arrived he told us all dogs are dangerous because they are unpredictable. He couldn't catch the dog so when the dogs owner came home the dog ran up acting like a puppy and was friendly to all of us. It was an eye opening experience.
Don your little kiddy also likes to eat, especially while having plenty of water there! Your chances of him having a good meal are now higher! Good Luck, stay safe and arm yourself little buddy, even if it is to scare him away!
Thanks for caring Ed! Not really worried about Miss Kitty though to be honest.
@@affordabledesertliving3487 Would u carry a bear spray? That, I would think would also deter any future thoughts of kitty coming too close to you for your protection.
Some people say if they die doing what they love is worth it. Good luck👍
Stay safe down there Don! Up here on my homestead I had a "dangerous" encounter this last week as well. A Guatemalan man showed up on my property seeking water and food... :( Very nice gentlemen. Fed him, let him rest his bloody feet and sent him on his way. Really messed with my head as I am not a fan of illegal immigration, but this guy had more of a love for being here than many Americans I know. Also is a linemen for high voltage power lines, so has a valued trade. I only bring it up because like the kitty, many say I need a gun due to illegal immigration. I do have one, but much like you and your kitty companion I am not scared of what the media tells me about these "dangerous" encounters.
Good for you!
I too believe that the majority of folks crossing the border, are honest, hard working people.
Yes, we have laws, but we all are in the his life together, and should be helping each other.
"If you have the means, you have the responsibility"
This is something we all should try to live by.
Glad everyone was safe during the visit Beautanical Gardens. Is it okay to ask if you are in Cochise County? Yes the old camp fire horror stories about wildlife out to get you is a common place way of viewing wildlife. Having spent most of my adult life studying and working with wildlife I tend to simply enjoy the face that this gorgeous big cat is in my area. It's possible she has watched me from a distance at some point. Like most cats they don't miss much that is in their environment. If I was a Coue's deer or Javelina NOW THAT would be a concern. LOL.
@@affordabledesertliving3487 I am up 30 miles west and south of Tucson. 3 acres, a 12'x32' shed like yours. Been out here since August. Just got hot water figured out. Septic is next. No well, so using IBC totes for now.
Going to be building a earthbag/cob home here soon.
@Tommie Jones 100%! We are all brothers and sisters. Just hate to see people risk the desert, trample our sovereignty, and cut ahead of people doing it legally. Me and the Guatemalan are still FB friends today.
The cougar heard there is a older single man in the area and is stalking Don any way Don do not let her in the cabin you have been warned .
😆😆😆😆👍Best Comment Award🏆🏅
@@janebray9392 thanks Jane
ROTFL Jane
Hilarious Tim! Nope not going to let her into my cabin. LOL
We had a large black bear tracks up here. Have a great week Don 😀
Thanks so much! Yes grew up with black bears and worked on them a bit in wildlife research. In rural areas they tend to be pretty shy overall. But then they are intelligent creature and adapt to whatever environment they are in. I have never been really all that nervous about that species. I just make sure I don't surprise them at feeding sites or the Mums with cubs situation. Have a great week as well!
Amen~!
Fearful? I'd be more like you and embrace the visit!! Wildlife Rocks and so does your Homestead!!
Thanks Michael! Yep I am pretty stoked that she visits my yard.
Heh heh. Photobombed by a hummingbird. Love it!
LOL yes I didnt notice this until viewers brought it to my attention. I have 4 hummer feeders and love those birds for sure!
Hi a fantastic video. Well done don. Take care UK James.
James a bit wilder I suspect than the UK and really delighted you enjoyed the video mate. Cheers!
My cowboy neighbor in Az. told me the only animal that would bother me was the two legged kind. Enjoyed the Humming birds in the back ground. Don't forget southern Az. has the Mexican Grey wolf. My daughter has been stung by a scorpion also (flip flops).
Have seen a couple of small scorpions here but pretty rare it seems. Glad you enjoyed the photo bombing hummers. Wow forgot about Mexican Grey wolf. They are pretty far from here. Thanks for watching Slartibartfast70
0:44 Werner Herzog moment!! 😁 Be safe out there!!
Panda always love your comments. To my embarassment I didnt know who Werner Herzog was so looked this all up. Yes I would definitely call this a Werner Herzog moment. LOL. Thanks as always for stopping by.
🥰😸🙏 Happy, and blessed 2023!
and you as well ndlz1 !
grrrrrr!!!! Kitty cat knows a single is in town!!!!!
carolina.. priceless. Great to see you here as always and thanks for watching!
I totally agree with you. The odds of you even seeing a big cat is rare but the chances of you running across a killer dog is just about a fence away. I to live in Arizona desert and like you the only thing that worries me is rattle snakes.
Yes indeed. I have had too many not so fun dog encounters and yes rattlesnakes are my number one concern. But I simply am vigilant and careful.
That is so exciting to see those large cat paws.
Yes Miss Kitty caused quite the stir. I still remember her amazing voice as she was calling down over the hill.
You're right, they would rather avoid us. People asked me why we carry when out enjoying God's creations, I tell them you have to worry about the 2 legged critters up to no good. My friend and her 3 children were grateful of this when hiking/camping one time and met some of these 2 legged critters. No violence involved, they realized 2 mama bears would defend the children.
Agreed!
Yes wild animals are not that big a threat overall.
How extraordinary!
Pretty cool eh Bec?
I know I've been stalked twice by mountain lions; once in Central Oregon at the very start of Spring and warning signs to be aware were everywhere, and the other? About 3 miles north of the Southern terminus of the AZ Trail in the Huachucas, also early Spring. There were other hikers around the first time in OR. I was solo and only encountered one other person in 4 hours in the Huachucas. At one point I stopped to grab some water and my sandwich, and within minutes packed it back up and headed back the way I came. I was not budging any further north. Nope. It was another 1.5 mile before the sense of being watched dissipated. Both scary and fascinating. I was extremely grateful that Spring had an overabundance of "lion food", so I felt pretty lucky. I reported it to the Coronado NP staff - it was their first report of the season.
You're living right in your element.
Yes indeed! Thanks for watching!
We LOVE our kitties! We have only seen one mountain lion in 17 years, but we see bobcats all the time. I even caught a mom with a kit on the game camera he other day. They are very beautiful, and like their cousins the leopard, their markings are like fingerprints. So. Much. Fun! Keep up the good work. That game camera is going to be pretty cool. We have a bunch!
Irene yes Bobcats are beautiful little cats for sure! Thanks for watching!
Very good mr don ..that park life ponds lookin mighty fine ..😍😎😁pip pips
pip pip as well to you patrick! Glad you enjoyed checking out the pond. I really love it.
You are so cool! And I always learn new things from watching your videos!!! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks very much Martha. Glad you enjoy the vids!
I have spent a lot of time in the Arizona desert and the only animals that I have come in contact with that have gave me any concern with were domestic dogs.
So far minding my own business on hiking trails I have been jumped by a female Rottweiler and in another instance put behind a chain link fence (which I climbed over) by a pitbull. Both times I was no where's near the animals yard.
Excellent video. I always for your video, I came from Bangladesh. We have royal Bengal tiger
wow Abid Ali! Now THAT is one serious cat. and sadly so endangered. I would LOVE to go birding in India. One of the most diverse places on the planet for birds.
We got a pretty good video of a Mexican Bobcat in our wash a few days ago. It was scratching on a log and playing with a mouse! So that was pretty cool, but a mountain lion would be even more exciting! Great video, and stay safe! 😊🏜️
Oh.. so Aircrete House Build, you two are neighbours?..!!👍😁. And I have subscribed you both.... that's nice company .
Congratulations on a great Bobcat sighting! Way to go! Thanks for watching and your kind comments.
Shanthi H thanks so much for subscribing!
I hope you get to see the cat up close( preferably in pictures). Your hummingbirds are beautiful and Arizona is a great place to see all kinds. You are living the dream!
Hi Sandra yes! No end to gorgeous hummers. Because it's gotten colder all of them are Anna's right now. Tough little characters that can deal with below freezing temps. Yes super fortunate to live here!
😄 get a dog! Good companion, protector, and alarm system. Can help predators keep moving!
Good illustration of how regular dogs, and lightning is more dangerous than random puma attacks. Shucks, you might get a shark attack sooner!😆
Thanks for watching Dovelady! I have some dogs of friends I really like and I grew up with as well. But that said I love my peace and quiet and I find a dog like an over anxious child. Always needing to be catered to. So since being a Canadian bush guy I simply am not really alarmed by wildlife. So far 2 legged wildlife doesnt seem to be an issue here at all. I totally agree about getting shark bit before some lion ever bothers me.
Hay Don, another very interesting lecture on animal behavior, keep it up
Dave
So glad you enjoyed it Dave! So many fantastic things to learn about when it comes to wildlife.
Don, so glad I discovered your channel. Walden's Pond had always been my favorite book. I'll be retiring in about a year, but unfortunately my wife is disabled, so we will stay in our home, although we only heat what we use unless it is freezing. I guess I will have to live on the pond with you vicariously. Godspeed, my new favorite friend.
Vean so delighted to have you here. I hope you and your wife have a super summer and thanks so very much for watching!
The Desert is ALIVE! AZ is also My home, and we have Mountain Lion in pretty much all areas around here, just some are not aware of the Wildlife like someone who's lived here most all their life. You Sir have a Big Kitty visiting, possibly even robbing Camp at night...lol, Cats are opportunist.. 👍🤠
Hi Hyper Joe: I get Coue's deer wandering through and nibbling on things lots of times so she may have been following them around. All I know is that for every lion you see signs of there are tons of activity. Stealthy kitty for sure.
Good vid... I have black bear, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes all over my mountain cabin. The Javelinas are more aggressive, especially when traveling in numbers. Glad you put up a game camera, I have several at my location. You might raise it up a foot or two, and back it up the same. Also, try aiming semi downwards and towards the north or south, so not to get blinded out by the sun when triggered. Do a few tests pics. Also, blowing branches can trigger, and run down the batteries on a windy day/night... Look forward to your pics and vids.
Great tips for sure on game cams Rooster. Having fun with it seeing what's here. So far nothing dramatic except for big ol javelina and some desert rabbits. Glad you enjoyed the vid. Thanks!
Yes javelina can be pretty assertive that's for sure. So far they always run off when they see me but then I don't let them get too comfortable around me and make sure they know who owns this property.
Enjoyed this. I used to wrangle horses and cook in hunting camps and it wasn't uncommon to have nocturnal visits such as this. The horses really didn't like it much. Now days here where I live the moose are more problematic and they are kinda ornery. Most encounters and injury are human caused. I hope you get some good trail cam videos and share.
Zoanne I am thinking perhaps you are in Canada because of the moose mention. Yes I grew up in moose country and the only time I was threatened was when I was in the vicinity of a calf and Mum would have none of it. Naturally I respected her and gave her some space. Glady you enjoyed the video!
@@affordabledesertliving3487 I live in north central Colorado
I agree with your thoughts and statistics. Lived in the Alaskan bush during some of my youth and never had any major problems .I found the moose to be the most dangerous in winter in the deep snow when sharing trails. The good thing is they were not trying to eat me. They just wanted their space. Humans are by far the most dangerous mammal on the planet.
I found cows with calves particularly dangerous but again as you said just give them space.
When you showed the paw print, I immediately yelled, "Cougar!" Then you said it was a Mountain Lion. "Hang on, I know I'm right. What's the difference?"
Well, a Google search proved us both right. :) It's just another name for the same tawny cat.
Mostly I only see domestic cats in my back garden. And black bears when the plum trees are full of fruit. I look at their scat and think, "Doesn't it hurt, when all the pits come out the other end?"
Jon in rural BC, Canada
LOL. Yeah one bear to another: "eating these plums is the pits". Good call on the Cougar. Havent seen it since but they are in the area no question.
@@affordabledesertliving3487 The Big Horned Sheep are the real pests. They'll jump right over my fence and get into the garden. The big, lazy ones will just push on my gate so the whole latch turns and they can walk right in.
Jon in rural BC, Canada
@@JonTanOsb Wow I thought mule deer were annoying. Still wondering where you are located in BC. Your welcome to email me if private area.
@@affordabledesertliving3487 I'm in Spences Bridge. It really annoys me that it doesn't have an apostrophe. The population is under 150, but we have lots of Indian bands around. In fact my side of the street is freehold, and the other side is Cook's Ferry Indian band land. All my neighbours are cool people. :)
I think I bought the cheapest house around. It's valued now at $130,000. But that's just the replacement cost.
Last winter was cruel. It lasted two months, not two weeks, and my pipes froze twice. Luckily, I had my Luggable Loo and pine pet bedding to see me through. And a five gallon water jug with a hand pump.
Usually, we just get a dusting of snow, but we had a couple of feet. Ever since I moved here, people have been telling me, "This is not normal weather." Gee, I hope it isn't me.
Jon in rural BC, Canada
I agree with you
Thanks for watching Chuck!
I, for one, think it's great that you have wild life coming to your personal habitat. There's room for sharing our planet and as you now all too well, many species are trending downward. Those fearful folks need to ask themselves 'who was there first'? The animals win!!! Mating season is over and if the 'kitty' is in a family way, she's going to seek out nourishing food, water, shelter.
Always love your videos thanks again
Great info thanks Pat King!
Delighted you watch them Hattie!
I can not wait to see your trail cam photos ,those kitty's are fascinating animals , loved your statistics , I could go on about wildlife , I do not hunt anymore and when I did I ate everything I killed good luck with photos of wildlife
Chuck I am from a hunting family as well. Moose and white-tailed deer in our freezer while I was growing up.
You better keep safe there Don ok
Thanks mate. You too. Watch out for aggressive Big Reds and their lethal kicks to the groin.
A wooden walking stick can also provide protection. But wildlife biologists are savvy people. The cat might be after those quail or other birds that visit the pond. Ourpond drew domestic cats all the time as they tried to ambush cardinals and other small birds.
I have one feral that drifts through but I haze him whenever I see him. He feeds and relaxes at the neighbors about 1000 yards south of me. So he is well taken care of. I don't tolerate cats on my property if possible as they are serious predators to the bird population.
Just wanted to tell you that I have thoroughly enjoyed your journey and love all your wonderful stories. Mountain lions are truly beautiful creatures. Can't wait to see what you catch on your trail cam !!
Mrs Grammy many thanks! So far the cam has captured: desert cottontail, mice, Big ol Javelina, one feral cat, and lots of birds.
Hi Don, Your beloved Joanna and Rob are just now catching on to your videos. WOW , and what a joy to be able to follow your journey. Great job, we want to support you in some ways so bear with us for now. Check with you later, HALLELUJAH , much love R and J
Hi Joanna and Rob! How fantastic to know you guys are watching my vids! Definitely made my day. New one coming out in a few days showing what I chose to do as far as floor insulation and my insulation install. Great to hear from you!!
That's saweet! I'm glad you are getting all kinds of visitors to your desert oasis. I originally wondered why the necessity of it. But alas, the joy it must bring would far exceed the need to complete other projects first. Clear the mind, and the rest will follow. You are doing a heck of a job. I will be sad once I get all caught up on your videos.
Hemi I had one individual who came to visit one time basically chide and basically call me out and say essentially what a waste of time and energy. For me it's been a life dream to have a water feature like this one. I have not one bit of regret I put the time and energy into it. It's like candyland every day. It was funny this evening there were about 9 pairs of ghostly bright big eyes staring from the darkness at me as I went into the yard. The local mule deer herd has found it. I am a bit undecided about them. They eat trees and might damage the pond. Hmm we shall see. Dont worry about being saddened by the end of the vids. I will have a new one up in just a day or so. Then tons of them coming. Thanks for watching!
I worked and lived in the mountains along time. Once in awhile I’d get the feeling something was following me. 5 times I fount mountain lion tracks but never saw them. Luca
They are an intelligent curious animal so it's often hard to determine what they are up to unless you see and observe them.
I enjoyed the video Don. And yes the hummingbirds in the background were very nice
Hi James. So glad you enjoyed the hummers and the video. Love having you here.
Due to the California wildfires last year my trailcam caught a pair of mountain lions coming up our driveway (we live out in the country). Gave me the creeps to be outside at night for awhile. But it's all good now.
Maybe leave some food and toys out for her you need a pet👍 Take care.................
LOL re: food and toys. Food is out there already. Javelina and Coue's deer come through my yard all the time. Toys? hmm not sure unless they play with their food.
@@LMBee00 No I meant that with deer and javelina in my yard the food is already there!
@@LMBee00 Lions here are very focused on Coue's deer but of course wouldnt pass up an easy javelina or jackrabbit meal. Bobcats on the other hand will definitely focus on the rodents you mentioned.
Can hardly wait for the animal cam footage of your neighborhood creatures!
Will post anything interesting later on John. Thanks so much for watching!
Last month I drove north of Benson and drove gravel till just about Globe, I had a Bobcat run across the road in front of me.
They are a beautiful cool animal. I have seen them pretty close as well.
I like to carry some protection. A hunting knife and a sharpened dandelion digger on a three foot pole makes me feel better. A Golden Retriever as my early alert system works great as well. I don't go into the bad part of the city except in the hours between 9 AM and 12 noon. I like to see wildlife too. From a safe distance. Take care. Vaughn
Thanks for watching Vaughn. Appreciate you coming by!
I live 10 miles from the Florida Panther sanctuary here in SW Florida. Like you, I choose to live more remotely from the general populace. At the beginning of this year, I lost 3 cats to a young female in heat, roaming the area around me. My remaining cats suddenly found themselves housebound. I've literally crossed paths with this creature, or her mate, so I know they don't stay where they belong. Not much I can do about this since the species is still protected. Years ago the Florida panther was on the brink of extinction so the California mountain lion (I believe) was brought in when we lost the last male. They might look the same but they aren't. - Because of our desire for animal companionship, lost pet signs have suddenly become very common up and down the roads out here. And now my neighbors are telling me about their cattle being attacked or gone missing. (until the vultures start circling) Last week a police officer showed me a picture she snapped of a lioness and her 3 cubs crossing a road just 3 miles from where I live.
That's a very endangered cat. Amazing information Ant. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the vid.
Your so welcome. Hope you enjoyed it.
Very interesting! Always enjoy your videos. If I lived in the area I’d like to enjoy a coffee with you in your beautiful outdoor yard. Keep safely blest.
Bud so appreciate you stopping by and checking out the videos and so glad you enjoy them!
Agreed, absolutely not coyote tracks. I have seen cars in Arizona
They are out there
Yep lions happen.
Awesome analogy. We have a big cat around here and he/she/it does not seem to care about anyone. It laid on a picnic table in the state park and watched my buddy ride through on his scooter. Just leave them along and the odds of them leaving you alone go up. However the two legged kind of critters are around and many of them are up to no good.
Rodney you are so correct about the reality of danger and how all of that fits. One cool cat that just chilled on the picnic table. Thanks for watching!
Don I traveled around in my van for a year in my van and was never bothered by big cats. A coyote came by to visit, and humans, but humans were the most dangerous for me.
Yeah wildlife doesnt scare me one iota. Its aggressive dogs and their owners that treat them like harmless fur children that worry me. Of course nefarious 2 legged characters are always a concern in most places. Although I have had no thievery etc here.
Bobcat, possibly a young mountain lion.
By the calls and track sizes I would say female mountain lion looking for a friend.
thx.
Aprecio mucho que vengas y veas estos videos, Juana. ¡Muchas gracias por su amable apoyo!
Meow!!!!!!!!!!!!!wow how wonderful to have that action in your realm. Hi from Baja California Sur. On our way north now, will be back before you know it. See you at happy hour sometime soon. karen and bob
Hi Karen hope you and Bob are still enjoying your time away in Baja and other travels! Was over at your place on Monday. Yes fun to have a big kitty around the place. But I am betting she was just gliding through her territory.
Maybe the storm was the same one that upset GDP near to you. Wow, it would be do nice to catch the cat on the trail cam, so you know exactly what has visited you. When I saw the prints I knew it was a cat of some sort...no toe nails...dogs do not retract their claws. I look forward to your vids every week, or so, and you never fail to present an interesting subject. I noted the vest again as well as the hummingbirds and butterflies at the feeder. Thanks Rich.
G'day Rich. Yes love my warm O'Reillys vest. Hoping I get some interesting stuff on cam for sure. Glad you enjoyed the video mate. Thanks for watching!
Can’t wait to see the trail cam footage!
Once I get something that folks might enjoy I will post it Gregory. Thanks for watching!
Back in 1987 my father and I built a super insulated retirement home on the outscerts of Sierra Vista. I installed infrared motion detector security lights on all sides of the house. One year, while I was down there, I live in the Pacific Northwest, the back light came on one night. I looked out and saw nothing. The next day while cutting the grass on the four acre lot I saw that top of the large ceramic bird bath was nocked off and broken. I bought and installed a new one. A year later, when I was again there, the light again came on. This time I looked toward the bird bath. Sitting next to the bird bath was a rather large mountain lion drinking water. He was careful to not touch the top of the bath. I assumed, if it was him, he learned his lesson not to jump up on it. My parents were impressed and said it was still safer than Chicago. Long ago I escaped Chicago and transfered to Portland, Oregon. Now Portland is like a little Chicago. I'm moving to Cochise County, Arizona!
Elvin thanks for sharing such a fascinating story! Yes Lions are in many a backyard but they move so stealthily most never see them. This cat may have watched me several times now that I have lived here for 1.5 years. Not sure but I know they are an intelligent animal and make very calculated decisions about what and when to hunt etc. Yes no question 2 legged creatures are much much more of an issue than any animal ever was. Of course I already covered this but domestic dogs still give me a lot of concern. I have had too many bad experiences with them.
Your exactly right Don. All species of animal have different reasons for different behavior. Even within species different breeds have different genetic behavior. Man is by far the most unpredictable mammal of all. You run a much greater risk of harm dealing with a person rather than a wild animal...lol.
randy fredericksen so very true! Thanks for watching!
Glad you got a trail cam, will enjoy watching it. Glad you got a pet, lol. Miss Kitty may guard your area.
She will keep all of the Coue's deer out of the yard thats for sure!
Great story Don, Can't wait to see what you get on trail cam. A few years ago, we were in the caddo lake wildlife refuge in Karnack TX. We saw a cat with a really long tail , too big for a housecat, but not the size of a mountain lion. To me it looked like a jaguarundi, low to the ground with Darkish tan coloring, with that weird shaped head. It ran across the street really fast. Sure wish I could have gotten a better look. I love to study nature and wildlife. Your job when you were younger sounds really interesting.
Wow. A jaguarundi would be an amazing sighting! They are in the Chirichuhua mountains about 1:45 min from me. Havent seen one yet. Yes have had a fantastic life adventure doing wildlife research over the years.
haven't seen your videos online for a while. I clicked on the button for notifications. So I should receive when you upload a video. Just worried about my AZ brother. Looks like your thriving. Blessings my friend.
Forty Four great to see you here Bro. Others have mentioned that even though they click the notifications TH-cam goes lazy and doesnt notify them. I will have to look into that. Thanks!
Go Bisbee Pumas!
Yep I am sure Pumas stalk the outskirts of Bisbee for sure.
I look forward to watching this!
Hope it was enjoyable KB6 LCW
So close to first! Looking forward to watching as well!
Great to have you here UTXTA
Don, your stories continue to inspire and amaze! We're enjoying some time offgrid in the southwest and the wildlife, especially after that real cold wind/rain, has been fun to watch. That solar pond is fantastic!!! Cheers! - Chrissy
Wow Chrissy glad you are enjoying your offgrid time! Yes so many amazing things to see here. Delighted you like the pond!
Just a note. If you have strobe light on head lamp use it when you are encounter a animal at night this confuses them and they run away or just stop. I have lived in Arizona for a few years and only encountered 3 mountain lions. Growing up in Colorado many more. They do not like humans but they love animals that eat human food and trash. The pig( javolina hanging out is what she is more than likely looking for. And water might be a intoxicated call also.
I stumbled across your channel and enjoying it. I'm a youngster (59) but interested in your little homesite. Have family in Cochise county Arizona and love the thought of unconventional building. I have built 3 homes of my own .1 from a 1911 box car, one out of an old fire station And one in the bed of my pickup ( before it was cool...lol.
Lots of lion encounters Scott. Yes she could well have been interested in the javelina and my pond I built.
That's so awesome you have a feline neighbor! I hope you get some footage of them on your pond-cam.
Hoping so but Miss Kitty like all of her kind will probably not visit again for many months.
Thank you cousin for all the effort you put into talking about the big kitty visit! 😺 ❤
Your so welcome Patti. It drives me nuts just to brush over things that are biologically oriented. Love nature (big surprise LOL)
I recently discovered your channel and when i saw this one i had to look up mountain lions in my Tom Brown's Field Guide (Nature Observation and Tracking). Did you know that cats "directly register when they walk. This means that as the front foot is picked up, the hind foot comes down directly into the front print"? Which is why "the diagonal walking pattern of a mountain lion would indicate a normal walk". And the book agrees with you that the size indicates a mountain lion.
Great info Richard. Thanks for watching!
Hi Don!
Hi Kristy! Hope your having a good day!
Don, I haven't seen a new video from you, I hope you are better equipped for the winter this year
Hi Rosey. I have been with friends in California for 2 weeks over thanksgiving exploring Yosemite etc. More videos on the way!
Your stretch of the San Pedro River Valley probably supported a lot of lion 'traffic' historically, as well as Jaguar -- the nearby Huachuca & Mule Mountains are perfect habitat for them & the riparian corridor in between would surely have provided everything needed not only to survive, but thrive. I wouldn't even be that surprised to hear of bear sightings in the SPRV for much of the same reason.
I've run into Black Bear a few times in the Huachucas -- up on top near Carr Peak & in a couple of different spots below Miller Peak down in the canyon. In each encounter without fail the bears fled, seemingly as fast as they could carry themselves.. I found that rather comical, actually.. that being said, I'm sure if one stashed a can or two of pepper spray where it would be handy (like a small belt or pocket clip-on), that would likely be all one needed to ward-off any curious cats (or aggressive dogs) that get too close.
I can't wait to see what you 'catch' on your trail-cam... 😎
Lane C this was such an informative well thought out post for sure. Based on everything I know about mountain lions I suspect she is as stealthy as all of them are in rural areas where folks have guns etc. I am betting anytime I move about the yard she knows this and avoids me like she has been avoiding humans for a long time. My area is very country in its thinking and EVERYONE owns firearms here. Also lions are such wanderers I doubt she spent many days in this specific area. But then that is only educated guessing. Black bears have become real pests in Ash Canyon and folks have to take down their hummingbird feeders there even. Yes pepper spray would do the trick for sure. Thanks for watching!
Don, you have the most enjoyable channel on You Tube! I just discovered your channel a few days ago and am watching the older videos you posted. Wouldn't it be cool if you snapped a Jaguar on your wildlife cam? Nationan Geographic showed a picture of a Jaguar taken by a rancher in AZ in the early '80s. Thanks for your channel and all the info you share. Happy Holidays!
Hi Robert. I have a suspicion that jaguars slink through the area only a mile or so from me. The habitat is right and there have been reports of them in the Huachuca mts which are only 15 min drive away. Would LOVE to see a jaguar in the area.
@@affordabledesertliving3487No doubt the Jaguars do cross the border more often than one thinks. I bet you see one at some lucky point in the future. Good luck!
Another great video! Be cool to see that cat! Good luck to ya out there.
Lake Havasu ☀️ AZ
Thanks bquade70! HOpe things are going well with your setup in Lake Havasu.
@@affordabledesertliving3487 doing great, thank you!
Can’t wait to see what the trail cam films 👍🙂
So far Javelina, mice, domestic feral cat, desert cottontail and some super birds!
@@affordabledesertliving3487 not sure what a Javelina & desert cottontail is, (I’ll look them up). Awesome more birds. I’m sure we’ll see your footage soon enough on your TH-cam channel 👍🙂 I can’t dislike any living thing so seeing the feral cats will be nice too 😻👍🙏🇦🇺
Nice to learn more abt you. You have had and still are an interesting life. Bought an acre in Navajo outside snowflake hope to go offgrid soon with daughter and her husband and baby
Hope the permitting process and all details go great for you folks Claudia!
Interesting video.
Thanks for the visit Kirsten!
Great video Don. Also the hummers and yellow butterflies at the feeder. Hope you have some good trail cam video to share soon. J D
Thanks JD. So delighted that folks enjoyed the hummers and butterflies.
Can’t wait to see what shows on the trail cam. I live in a small town east of Phoenix and the wildlife has really started to come out and cut through my backyard. So fun to see on the trail cam!
Amy totally true one never knows what's going to drift through for sure!
Another good one, Don! Some good information about cats there. Pam and I tend to agree that we're not at great risk from most of the animals around our place. Generally, we've encroached on their habitat, and they don't really have any interest in interacting with us. Another thing worth noting, which applies to pretty much all of our wildlife, is that they all serve a purpose within the ecosystem. Attempting to eliminate them will almost inevitably upset the balance among all the different creatures that exist around us. Thanks for making the case that our first instinct shouldn't always be to eliminate any unwanted visitor.
Thanks Brian yep I am thinking miss Kitty is 50 miles away by now. Their territories are large and my acreage is just on her run. By the calls she was making my thought is that she was trying to connect with a boyfriend.
Fasconating video Don. Thanks for posting. BTW, do you know if it true or a myth that Big cats like to take their victims from behind? Thus they hesitate to attack head-on, unless they feel threatened or cornered.
Hi David. Glad you liked the video. Yes Big cats prefer to take their victims from the side or moving away from them. Cats are cats and they dont like face to face confrontation especially if you stand your ground and appear big and threatening. They prefer "prey" that looks like it cant fight back much but just struggle as they clamp down on it. As I always mention domestic dogs worry me a lot. Wild animals. Not at all.
Thanks for the great video and information. Stay safe out there for us.
Thanks Douglas, will do!
Love this video, Don. I hope you get more calling cards from this cat in the future.
Thanks Marjorie! I have my trail cam geared up to capture any nighttime visits!
I'm fine with perpetuating the myth of night cat attack in the dark. As my Mom would say, it keeps the riffraff out.
LOL funny statement Victoria! Thanks for watching!
I will be curious if animals do show up on your trail cam!
Thanks! Old trail cam broke so need to get a new one.
Animals normally want little to do with people , having said that there are types that do like us for companionship . Pumas not being one of those . Having your water feature there may be a draw for this one , but I am sure that in its Territory there are more water holes . As long as there is a way away from threat all most likely will be fine . Stay safe , have fun .
Thanks Russel Appreciate you watching.
thats a good size cat for sure i haven't seen any of them for some time and my neighbor said the cattle man killed 3 in this area last year sad to say. the one we did see several yrs ago was as long as the width of the one lane road. great video and thanks for sharing and have a great week ahead. as of this video i have been getting deer to the pond i even got it on film and posted its sometime back its was really neat to see them using the pond i just wished they would not take out the pump every time that water is cold
Sorry the cats got killed. Still a pioneer mindset out there that says all predators must be taken out. Yep pond maintenance always entails some retooling for sure. Sorry you have to replace your pump courtesy of the Coes Deer.
Thanks Don for another Great video : ) Very informative and educational . Good for us out here off grid to know what and who elsee is out there in the dark.. Thank You Don
Very welcome Doris! Hope you and your folks continue to enjoy your off grid experience!
Nice talk u gave. Ur pond looks 👍. Please think about getting a shot gun for personal protection. U r correct about dogs. Many people release them into the wild where a dog can become feral. Shotguns are handy for impossible situations like wild dogs, hogs, snakes and two legged problems. So please carry on and remember. U have the right to protect ur self. Big 5 has some nice inexpensive 12 gauge shot guns. Carpe diem
Thanks for watching Lee. Always appreciate you checking in here.
Great video Don.My goodness you certainty hit the mother load of wildlife diversity.Quite a variety of critters sharing your little patch of heaven with you.While you were talking we were entertained by butterflies and humming birds taking advantage of your water feeder.I cant wait to see what turns up at your watering hole on the trail cam. ATB
Yeah Graeme! No end to wildlife here. Just an amazing place for sure! Will keep folks posted if anything amazing shows up on the cam!
Great video Don. Love your hummingbird feeder! I tried to click on the link and it didn’t work. Sorry.
Thanks Pam. Wow this is such a challenge with Amazon. Can you try once more please? It took a while to go live but it says it works on my end... puzzling.
Very cool!
Wish we were neighbors. Would love to go on nature walks, with you. Could learn a lot ...guess TH-cam will have to do.
Thanks Don!
Your so welcome Laurie!
good to see you are all right!! great video! keep them coming
Doing great Sarge! Thanks so much for watching. More videos coming down the pike!
@@affordabledesertliving3487 seriously appreciate your input on here! Hope you could find more time to post videos more frequently! Have you looked into diesel heaters? There are some cheap China ones you could get and they are really affordable and efficient! Hope you could look into it and stay warm in upcoming cold nights. Just search for diesel heater and you will fine a lot of videos on them ranging in prices between 100-200 and if you get lucky you will find one made in us hopefully with support number to call ! Big money savings! You can find many videos on yt of people reviewing their options on it yeah it has thermostat built in and runs extremely quiet with little to no electricity to it.
@@affordabledesertliving3487 th-cam.com/video/F2HTItTpc44/w-d-xo.html here little preview od that heater
@@affordabledesertliving3487 th-cam.com/video/BRLgBq8njuY/w-d-xo.html
@@affordabledesertliving3487 yeah and I believe there are also ways to run that heater on used vegetable or car oil xD so basically you use your waste to its full potential and make affordable living in desert more practical
Great video, very interesting about the wildlife and it's clear that you have a healthy understanding and respect for them, something I imagine one would need living in that beautiful environment ,I see the pond is finished and looks great,well done on that, best wishes, tom☘️
Tom many thanks for the great wishes and thanks for watching!