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Sep 11
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Neil Barker's avatar

Thanks Perry. That close up encounter sounds so memorable. Raccoons are quite interesting to observe and I can sense an intelligence and curiosity behind their eyes.

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janoskar.hansen@gmail.com's avatar

likeable animals easy to be a friend of

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Neil Barker's avatar

Thanks Janoskar. They are quite curious of us people.

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James Freitas's avatar

Incredible photos Neil. They really capture the personality of the raccoons—curious, vaguely secretive, peering from the tree. You really transport us, between images, video and words, to the moment.

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Neil Barker's avatar

Thanks James and much appreciated. This was such a random and unexpected encounter.

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Michael's avatar

Wonderful photos. Really. Those little faces! But everyone- where there are young ones there will usually be nearby their mother. And like all mothers, they are fiercely protective. Raccoons, for all their charm, are formidable animals- treat with respect, love and caution please.

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Neil Barker's avatar

Thanks Michael and that's a great point about their mother. I definitely give them a wide berth when I do see them together as a family.

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Lola Renda's avatar

I personally know several of these precious critters. All are gentlemen and ladies doing their best with their little ones on their daily scrimmage for food. They stand facing me, their arms and fingers outstretched tightly to signal all I need to know and will forever be Imprinted on my soul.

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Neil Barker's avatar

Thanks Lola and that sounds like such an amazing experience.

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Heidi Zawelevsky's avatar

Wonderful! Your animal magnetism shifted into high gear with this special encounter, Neil. Love it. The poem really sets the stage for an incredibly enjoyable photo essay with the trio of raccoons. They seem as curious about you as we are of them. And again the Korean vocabulary adds a deeper resonance to your writing.

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Neil Barker's avatar

Thanks Heidi and very much appreciated! This encounter was certainly interesting and memorable!

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Lindsay Hartley's avatar

Aw, cuties. Gorgeous pics and love the poem.

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Neil Barker's avatar

Thanks Lindsay and much appreciated!

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Pamela Leavey's avatar

So cute! Wonderful photos Neil. I know a few people who leave cat food out for their yard raccoons.

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Neil Barker's avatar

Thanks Pamela - I was really fortunate that morning - pure luck and timing.

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Birdsong Photoetry's avatar

What a beautiful moment!

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Neil Barker's avatar

Thanks and much appreciated!

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Mary Farr's avatar

Great pictures! Sweet faces…

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Neil Barker's avatar

Thanks, Mary! These raccoons were quite the treat to see climb up and around this tree.

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