After denning up through the ice storm, the cottontails were out in force this morning, moving about in the predawn light. Yesterday's heavy rain and moderating temperature scoured away the hard surface glaze and opened up patches of vegetation, providing sustenance for these hardy rabbits. They will use this break in winter's wrath to feast on grasses, seeds, herbs and the buds of low shrubs, always wary of the fox, coyotes, hawks and owls that prey on them.
While many will succumb to predators, heavy snows and ice storms, more than enough will survive to replenish their population, with the first litters arriving by February. We humans, always focused on our personal turmoils, should be inspired by these resilient creatures; patience and perseverance is their motto!
