Hunting brings a certain appreciation for nature [non-graphic pictures]

I'm not sure how everyone else feels but I've found that my hunting has brought me a better appreciation for the animals I hunt as well the many others that can be found in my area.
I probably know more about squirrels than most members of PITA (or is it PETA, I forget j/k). Much of it is due to the research I've done in order to become a better hunter but I think there is alot to be said for simply sitting in the woods and blending in for a while.

Anyhow, here are a few critters that I chose to shoot with a camera this time around. Sorry for the photo quality but they tend to be a little camera shy LOL.

Russ S.

[longislandhunter]

Nice pics, enjoyed them.  I know how you feel.  My interest in hunting, like you,  has  served to increase my appreciation and knowledge of wildlife and in turn greatly increase my enjoyment of nature and the outdoors. You hit the nail on the head when you mentioned sitting quietly in the woods and blending in with nature.  It always amazes me how after a few minutes the sounds of the woods return, the animals get back into their survival routine, and how you truly do feel that you are a part of it all.

[raterminator]

Nice pictures, Russ,

I feel the calmness looking at it. I’ve always been more the nature admirer than a hunter. Just sitting with closed eyes and listening to all the nature sounds around you make you blend in and feel as a part of it. I’ve never been able to shoot at something in minutes like that. That’s why my favorites have always been upland and waterfowl games. I see the natural, sport challenge to shoot them on their fly, while they are aware of your presence. And it’s not just a kill, you can eat them too  Of course, the exception are the rats; I can shoot them all day long with no regrets about wasted life.

[Gene_SC]

Well Russ, I have battled my conscious  on this matter. I feel that squirrels are cute but like rats they are dirty and carry lots of deceases. They are pests to farmers and really are well out of control here where I live. So I will go out deliberately to kill them when ever possible. But I do have a soft spot for nature. I love to get up everyday around 5:30 am and go out on the porch and listen to all the roosters crowin, cows mooin, and all the bob whites talkin to each other. I don't think I would kill any birds though. The squirrels are a challenge when they are in the trees trying to hide from me. That makes it a sport.. :)

Gene

I'm glad you enjoyed the pictures. It is peacefull watching the critters sometimes.
Anyone can learn how to kill, it's about knowing when to do so as TXairgunner illustrated in another thread.
Just wish I had more rabbits around here. Thought they were known for multiplying. Guess the ones around here are duds.

Russ S.

[D Miller]

I love nature & being outdoors. I will be spending a week in Big Ben National Park in October. This is an annual event for me & some of my buddies. The views are wonderful & animals are running all about. I'll be armed with my camera & fishing rod. We mountain bike, hike, raft and rock climb. Out there is about the closest you can get to nature & how things must have felt before the world became overpopulated. I can't wait!