Category: Wildlife

Why I Wear a Mesh Hat and Smell Like Cookies in June 🍪

Deep in the piñon forests of Southwest Colorado, there is a short season when the sun shines, the garden blooms, and the air bites back. Each year, without fail, between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, the piñon gnats arrive.

They are not just annoying. They are tiny vampires with wings. You will not hear them. You will barely see them. You will just feel the sting. Then the bruise.

And if you hold still for more than a few seconds, they start to swarm. It feels like a dark, buzzing cloud has gathered just for you, relentlessly divebombing your head.

Even local veterinarians and service providers avoid our neighborhood during gnat season. They know what is waiting.

In June, my neighborhood looks like a beekeeping convention. Everyone wears mesh veils, wide-brimmed hats, and long sleeves. Not because we are tending hives, but because the bugs are tending to us.

Last summer, I made it worse. I painted the barn red. I am not a tidy painter. So when I go outside in full mesh bug gear, I do not look like a gardener. I look like someone with something to hide. It gives CSI: Homestead Edition.

Gnat Behavior: When Are Piñon Gnats Active?

Textbooks say most biting midges are active at dawn and dusk, but not here. Piñon gnats prefer the full sun and dry heat of the day.

If I am quick, I can water the garden before 9 a.m. After that, it is over. They are awake, aggressive, and waiting.

And if you hold still for more than two seconds? Forget it. They swarm. You can feel them gathering in a black cloud around your face, ready to bite. That is when you stop watering and start running.

Quick Facts: What Are Piñon Gnats?

You may have heard them called “no-see-ums,” “biting midges,” “punkies,” or even “five-o’clock gnats,” depending on where you live. The name “no-see-um” is no joke. These biting midges are so small you often do not see them at all. By the time you realize they are there, they have already bitten you and vanished like tiny flying phantoms. And the vicious little beasts don’t even spare the dogs; if you’ve got blood, they’re all over you.

What makes their bite so sneaky is how they do it. Piñon gnats do not pierce the skin like mosquitoes. Instead, they use tiny scissor-like mouthparts to slice into your skin. Then they lap up the blood. It is a brutal method for something so small, and you feel it almost instantly.

• Piñon gnats are tiny biting midges (1 to 3 millimeters long).
• Female gnats bite to draw blood for egg production.
• The bite feels like a quick sting, not a poke.
• The mark left is flat and bruised, not swollen or itchy.
• They thrive in piñon-juniper woodlands.
• They are most active in the heat of the day.

The Favorite Target: Why They Bite Eyelids

Some people get bites around their ankles. Not me. These bugs go straight for my eyelids. The thinnest, most sensitive skin on my body, and apparently their favorite. One even let me catch her in the act. I got a picture. Just a tiny black dot with bad intentions.

Piñon gnat bites do not swell. They do not itch. They leave small, dark bruises that sting briefly and hang around for days. It looks like I lost a fight with my eyeliner.

Piñon Gnat Survival Strategies: What Helps (Sort Of)

Let me be honest: nothing works perfectly against these bugs. I have tried everything I can think of, and most of it barely makes a difference.

I have tried it all.

• Mosquito repellents (candles, sprays, and salves): Nothing works. Not against piñon gnats.
• Vanilla extract: Smells like cookies and seems to repel the smaller ones. I dab it under my eyes, but be careful. Real vanilla contains alcohol and will burn if it gets too close to your eyes. I keep McCormick Vanilla Extract on hand for both baking and gnats. (Amazon Affiliate Link)
• Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat: These tiny biters have no problem getting under sunglasses and they enjoy biting up your hairline, too.
• Mesh bug hat: The only thing that truly works. It is not stylish, but it gets the job done. Here is the mesh bug hat I use, and it comes in different colors! (Amazon Affiliate Link)

July 5: My Real Independence Day

I love the outdoors, my garden, and my chickens. But during piñon gnat season, I become an anxious houseplant.

I stay inside. I blink through mesh. I smell like a cookie. And I wait.

Because every year, like clockwork, they disappear the day after the fireworks fade. July 5 is my real Independence Day. That is when I can walk outside barefaced and finally feel free. 🎆

Until then, I will be under the silly hat or hiding inside.

Now, It’s Time to Relax 📺🧶💞

If you are stuck inside like me, it might be the perfect moment to pick up a new cozy skill. These are some of my favorite indoor knitting and craft projects. No mesh hat required.

🧶 Learn to Knit: Free Beginner Lessons: This step-by-step knitting course was made for true beginners. Each lesson includes photos and explanations so you can learn to knit with confidence.

🧣 Beginner Scarf Knitting Pattern: Practice your first stitches while making something useful. This garter stitch scarf pattern is relaxing and includes printable instructions in three sizes.

🛏️ Rice Stitch Blanket Pattern: Knit a textured afghan using simple knit and purl stitches. This blanket pattern includes two stitch variations, both with cozy results.

🌲 Cozy Lifestyle Inspiration: Warm up your home life with recipes, simple living ideas, and peaceful routines that bring calm to your day.

🎨 Cabin Crafts: Explore cozy crafts to keep you busy and entertained.

📍 Social Media: Find lots of inspiration collected in one place. Let’s connect!

• Pinterest
• Instagram
• YouTube

Mountain Moment: Wild Turkeys Fly Over Colorado Homestead 🦃

Living on a homestead means you get to experience moments that make you stop, stare, and occasionally drop your knitting needles. Today was no exception. I was in my craft room (deep in the zone, working on a new knitting pattern) when movement outside my window caught my eye. And no, it wasn’t a deer, a bear, or a wandering coyote. Nope, it was a flock of Colorado wild turkeys deciding it was time to show off their flight skills.

Wait… Do Turkeys Fly?

Yes, you heard that right. Wild turkeys fly. And they do it like they’re auditioning for Cirque du Soleil. If you’re still picturing them as the chunky, flightless butterballs of Thanksgiving fame, you are probably confusing them with their feral cousins. Our wild turkeys? They might hesitate to take flight, but when they need to cross a gulley or escape danger, they’ll startle you with their surprisingly skilled takeoff.

Play

Nothing gets the morning coffee going quite like discovering a tree full of turkeys, their silhouettes framed against a Colorado sunrise. Honestly, it’s the kind of moment that makes you double-check if you’re actually awake or just living in a dream.

What Wild Turkeys Eat: Piñon Nuts, Insects, and More

So, here’s a little turkey trivia for you: Wild turkeys are not lazy. They prefer foraging a healthy diet of piñon nuts, insects, and native plants (we’re talking gourmet-level sustenance here). They’re also great at cleaning up the forest floor, scratching away pine needles and spreading seeds like the woodland cleanup crew they were born to be. And yes, they’ve got the best seat in the house for all their gourmet meals; those pines make the perfect dinner table.

Oh, and in case you didn’t know, they’re more than happy to raid my garden, too. You’ve never seen a turkey move so fast as when they spot a fresh batch of tomatoes or zucchini. They’ll swoop in, snatch up their prize, and leave nothing but a trail of feathers and empty plant pots behind. So yeah, they might be nature’s cleanup crew, but they’re also a little… too enthusiastic when it comes to homestead gardens.

Turkey Roosting: A Masterclass in Strategy

As the sun sets, these wild aviators head for the tallest trees they can find, nestling in for the night. And trust me, watching a 20-pound bird navigate branches is just as entertaining as it sounds. These birds know exactly what they’re doing. They pick the safest spots, tucked away from predators, while making sure they’ve got the best view for breakfast. Goals, right?

Wild Turkeys Are Our Neighbors: Respecting Wildlife and Nature

Living out here in the Colorado mountains means sharing space with all kinds of wildlife, including these wild turkeys. They’re not just passing through; they’ve set up shop. And honestly, they’re more dependable neighbors than some humans I’ve encountered. 🤫 They’ve chosen this spot because it provides everything they need: natural habitat, food, and protection for their little ones. Maintaining these environments isn’t just good for the turkeys; it’s a win for the entire ecosystem.

The Wild Turkey Aerial Show: A Reminder of Why I Chose Homesteading

It’s a quiet life here, where the hustle and bustle of cities feel a world away. So, when I see those wild turkeys take flight, it’s a reminder of why I chose this Colorado lifestyle. The sight of these prehistoric-looking birds (seriously, they look like feathered velociraptors doing parkour through the sky) soaring through the air fills me with awe. It’s a spectacular display of nature in motion.

A Daily Rhythm: Wild Turkey Flyovers and Crafting Inspiration

From my craft table, where I design knitting patterns and film tutorials, any movement outside the window is a potential wildlife encounter. These turkey flyovers are a welcome interruption to the stillness. They’ve become as much a part of my daily routine as the sound of my knitting needles clicking away. And every now and then, I get lucky enough to share these moments with my community, proving that inspiration is everywhere – even in a tree full of wild turkeys in Colorado. 🌿

Read More

🦌 Wildlife Tales from My Colorado Craft Haven

🦁 Living with Mountain Lions

🐻 Keeping Bears Out of the Chicken Coop

🌲 10 Tips for Starting Your Homestead: Simple Steps to Turn Your Dream into Reality

🏡 Cozy Lifestyle Basics: Mountain Living Edition

🦌 Embracing the Rustic Homestead Lifestyle

Mountain Living Essentials

✨ Never Miss a Mountain Story 

Join my newsletter for exclusive patterns, homesteading tips, and wildlife updates! 💌

A Colorado Homesteader’s Guide to Wildlife Coexistence 🏔️ 🦁

When you choose to homestead in the Colorado mountains, you sign an unspoken agreement: this is mountain lion territory, and you’re the guest. It’s a reality of rural living, and honestly? It’s one of its greatest lessons.

As a Colorado homesteader on 8 acres surrounded by dense woods and wildlife, I’ve learned a lot about sharing space with these elusive predators. Recently, I gained a deeper understanding when I discovered something remarkable: a mountain lion cache right on my property.

What is a Mountain Lion Cache?

For those unfamiliar, a mountain lion cache is essentially a food storage site. These big cats will cover their prey – often a deer – with leaves, dirt, or snow to preserve it for future meals.

Finding a cache near my home was both startling and humbling. The lion had dragged its prey across my driveway and into the woods, where it carefully stashed the carcass to keep it safe and fresh. It reminded me of how a human hunter might put a deer in the freezer to preserve it for later use.

This act wasn’t random; it was an intentional survival tactic. By moving its meal to a secluded spot, the lion ensured it could return to feed without competition or threat.

What’s even more humbling? This mountain lion has been patrolling this territory for years. This was it’s home before it was mine; my house was built just five years ago. In a way, I’m the newcomer here, and this lion is one of the true locals.

Why Mountain Lions Cache Prey Near Homes

Mountain lions require expansive territories to hunt and survive. My homestead happens to fall within this lion’s range.

What’s amazing is how stealthy they are. Despite having security cameras, I’ve only caught brief glimpses. The motion sensors occasionally trigger, but by the time the camera starts recording, the lion is gone. Their ability to move undetected is both eerie and awe-inspiring.

I chose to leave the cache undisturbed. While unsettling at first, this decision reflects my respect for the mountain lion’s role in maintaining balance in our ecosystem. This is their land too, and they deserve to be here.

I did make sure to warn my neighbors of the activity, so they were aware and able to take the necessary precautions (like don’t play in the woods after dark and watch pets more closely).

A Word of Caution: When to Call for Help

While mountain lions are naturally shy and avoid humans, there are times when it’s necessary to contact wildlife protection officials:

🛑 If a mountain lion shows signs of unusual behavior, like allowing itself to be seen, entering secured areas to get at pets, or hunting humans, it could certainly pose a threat.

🛑 If you find a cache and notice the animal lingering nearby during the day or acting aggressively, call for assistance immediately.

Wildlife should be respected, but your safety always comes first.

Living Safely in Mountain Lion Country

Homesteading in the wilderness means adapting to coexist with nature. It’s about more than beautiful views and cozy cabins. It’s a commitment to understanding and respecting the land and its native predators.

Mountain Lions’ Role in the Ecosystem

• 🦌 Deer population control: Mountain lions prevent overgrazing by keeping herds in check.
• 🌿 Healthy ecosystems: Predators like lions ensure balance in the natural food chain.

Practical Coexistence Strategies

• 👀 Stay alert: Be especially cautious during dawn and dusk when lions are most active.
• 🐕 Protect pets: Keep animals indoors or close to home during peak wildlife hours.
• 🛠️ Secure your property: Store trash and pet food properly, and keep outdoor spaces well-lit.

Tips for Mountain Lion Country Residents

• Install motion-sensor lighting to deter wildlife.
• Maintain clear sightlines around your property by trimming back dense vegetation.
• Secure animal feed and other potential attractants.
• Be extra vigilant with pets, especially in the early morning or late evening.

Find my Homestead Essentials shopping list (where you can find this security camera) on Amazon (affiliate link).

The Reality of Rural Living

Social media often glamorizes mountain life with filtered photos of snow-capped peaks, cozy fires, and idyllic homesteads. But real rural living is more than just aesthetics. It’s about embracing the unfiltered beauty of nature, including its challenges, like living with mountain lions.

Sharing space with apex predators like mountain lions is both humbling and rewarding. Their presence is a sign of a thriving ecosystem, and it reminds us of the delicate balance we’re a part of.

A Lesson in Coexistence

Instead of seeking to remove the mountain lion near my property, I’ve chosen to respect its role. The cache it left behind, and its decision to drag prey across my driveway to a hidden spot, was a reminder that nature doesn’t operate on our terms. And that’s as it should be.

Each day on my homestead brings new opportunities to learn and grow. Whether I’m knitting by the window, keeping an eye on my surroundings, or tending to daily chores, I’m grateful for this connection to the natural world. Even its more formidable inhabitants. 🐾

Living with mountain lions and other wildlife is authentic homesteading: no filters, no shortcuts, just respect for the land and all who call it home.

🦌 More Homesteading & Wildlife:

• Starting Your Homestead: Simple Steps to Turn Your Dream into Reality 
• Planning to Garden This Year? Start Here
• When Wild Turkeys Take Flight
• Keeping Bears Out of the Chicken Coop
•  Cozy Lifestyle Basics

🏡 Mountain Living Essentials:  

✨ Never Miss a Mountain Story 

Join our newsletter for exclusive patterns, homesteading tips, and wildlife updates! 💌

Tarantulas Wandering in Southwest Colorado: A Unique Natural Phenomenon

Every fall, a fascinating event unfolds across the plains and foothills of Southwest Colorado: the annual tarantula migration. It’s a natural spectacle that draws attention not only from local residents but also from nature enthusiasts and curious onlookers from across the country. While the thought of hundreds of large, hairy spiders might send shivers down some people’s spines, the tarantula migration is actually an incredible and harmless display of nature at work.

What Is the Tarantula Migration?

The tarantula migration is not a migration in the traditional sense, where animals move long distances for survival or food. Instead, it’s a seasonal event where male tarantulas—most commonly the Aphonopelma hentzi species—emerge from their burrows in search of mates. These bachelors are driven by one purpose: finding love before the end of their short adult lives. Think of it like nature’s speed dating, but with way more legs and a lot less talking.

Starting in late August and continuing through October, the males set out at dusk, bravely trekking across fields, roads, and even hiking trails in their quest for romance. While this phenomenon occurs throughout the southwestern U.S., Southwest Colorado—particularly around La Plata and Montezuma Counties—offers a prime viewing opportunity for those wanting to witness this spidery love parade.

Why Do Tarantulas Migrate?

The male tarantulas, typically between 7 and 10 years old, have spent their lives underground, feeding and molting in their solitary burrows. But after years of being single, they’ve had enough and emerge during the fall to search for that special someone—because even spiders can’t resist the call of love. Mating is their one and only mission now, and after they find a mate, they’ve basically checked off their entire bucket list.

Females, on the other hand, are much more grounded (literally and figuratively). They prefer to hang out in their burrows, waiting for Mr. Right Now to wander by. With a lifespan of up to 20 years, they take their time, knowing the males will come knocking. Unfortunately for the guys, some of these spider dates don’t always end well—cannibalism is a real possibility. Talk about a high-stakes romance!

Where to See the Migration

In Southwest Colorado, several areas are well known for good tarantula spotting. The flat grasslands between Cortez and Durango, particularly around Highway 160, are a great place to witness the migration. It’s not uncommon to see these large, slow-moving romantics crossing roads or meandering through open spaces, likely dreaming of the perfect spider wedding.

For those who wish to experience the tarantula migration, it’s best to go out just before sunset, when the males become more active. Be sure to bring a flashlight if you plan to stay after dark, as the tarantulas tend to be most active at dusk and into the early evening hours.

Are Tarantulas Dangerous?

Despite their intimidating size and appearance, tarantulas are generally not dangerous to humans. Sure, they look like they could headline a horror movie, but they’re just hopeless romantics in search of a mate. While they can bite if threatened, their venom is mild and typically not harmful beyond a bee sting in terms of pain or reaction. They’re much more interested in finding love than engaging with humans, so if you come across one, it’s best to observe from a respectful distance and let them continue their search for spider soulmates.

Tarantulas also play an important role in the ecosystem, keeping populations of insects and small invertebrates in check. Their presence is a reminder of the often-overlooked importance of spiders in maintaining balance in nature—whether they’re swiping right on their tarantula Tinder or not.

How to Enjoy the Tarantula Migration Safely

If you plan to observe the tarantula migration, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure both your safety and the well-being of these eight-legged Casanovas:

• Watch from a distance: Tarantulas are delicate creatures. Avoid picking them up or disturbing them on their journey for love.
• Drive carefully: If you’re on the road, be mindful that tarantulas are slow-moving, and it’s easy to accidentally run them over. Drive cautiously in known migration areas, especially during the evening.
• Respect their habitat: Stick to trails and paths, and avoid trampling through their natural habitats. Many of these areas are fragile ecosystems.

Ready for Love

The tarantula migration in Southwest Colorado is a remarkable event that showcases the beauty and complexity of nature… and the romantic desperation of male tarantulas! For a few short weeks each fall, the region’s rugged landscape comes alive with these gentle giants, each hoping to find love before time runs out. So, whether you’re a spider enthusiast or simply curious about the natural world, the tarantula migration is a spectacle worth seeing, if you’re brave enough to witness nature’s ultimate matchmaking event.

Where Knitting Meets Critters and Gardens Host Gossip Sessions

So, picture this: Southwest Colorado, where my knitting needles and gardening trowels mingle with the locals – the wildlife! From my crafting corner, I’ve got a front-row seat to nature’s sitcom, and let me tell you, it’s both hilarious and awe inspiring.

Hummingbird High-Speed Chase

Ever tried knitting while hummingbirds zip around? It’s like a NASCAR race with wings! These speedsters inspire me to pick vibrant yarn colors, because, let’s face it, life’s too short for dull colors when hummingbirds are around.

Squirrel Shenanigans and Cheeky Chipmunks

Gardening with squirrels and chipmunks around is a bit like playing hide-and-seek. They eye my veggies, I try to protect ’em. It’s a constant game of “Who’s got the best tricks?” Their antics remind me to knit resilient stitches, just in case they decide to get crafty with my knitting basket.

Deer Drama Queen

As twilight sets in, the deer emerge, looking all majestic until they nibble on my carefully tended plants! They’re the garden divas, strutting in for a snack. But hey, their elegance sometimes sneaks into my knitting patterns – subtle and graceful, just like those sneaky but graceful nibblers.

Butterfly Makeovers

From caterpillar chaos to butterfly beauty, the garden’s got its own makeover show! It’s like witnessing a craft project in fast-forward. Their transformations nudge me to experiment with new knitting patterns – after all, change is a beautiful thing, right?

Songbird Karaoke Nights

These songbirds make my gardening soundtrack! It’s a full-on karaoke session out there. Their tunes fuel my knitting rhythm. Who knew a knitting session could double as an open mic night for nature’s finest crooners? And what’s extra-exciting in my neck of the woods is to hear the Steller’s Jays imitate the local hawks. Sometimes I hear a hawk scream and look up to see this fellow. The little stinker does it to clear the garden of other birds that might be competing for food. They hear a hawk and flee, while the Jay feasts happily, knowing the birds of prey are not on the attack.

Wild Turkey Troublemakers

Now, speaking of wild birds, I often run into the most beautiful flock of wild turkeys while knitting and gardening outside. They are adorable and so fun to watch. But they do love a good garden snack, just like anyone else. Do I share? Usually. They’re too fun to run off. Oh, and it is also amazingly fun to watch wild turkeys take flight.

Bumbling Bees

Lets not forget the most important of the garden creatures to visit while I’m clicking my knitting needles. Both honey and bumble bees are both vital to the garden’s survival and to my knitting bliss. Listen to the sweet soft buzzing while you weave together your newest knitting project. Your mind will thank you for the tranquility.

Don’t Forget to Look Up

Those knitting stitches do keep your eyes focused. But don’t forget to take a break and look up every now and then. Otherwise you might miss spotting some really amazing wildlife.

In Southwest Colorado, my knitting and gardening adventures unfold amidst the quirkiest cast of characters – the local wildlife! Their shenanigans and charm sneak into my crafting choices, adding a touch of nature’s comedy to my cozy craft haven.