Finding Balance: Animal Oracle Cards

Earth Mother and Sky Father Spread

Finding Balance

(Two Cards)

For people familiar with the Tarot, working with animal wisdom cards is another way to find balance in your life. With the Earth Mother and Sky Father spread, you learn to balance your maleness with your femaleness. Think in terms of giving and receiving when you are shuffling and dealing the cards. In traditional cosmology, Sky is dominant and giving, and Earth subordinate and receptive.

Use your dominant hand as Sky Father and your other hand as Earth Mother. Right-handed people would have the right card be Sky Father while left-handed people would have Sky Father as the left card. Pull one card with each hand and place them side-by-side. Right-handed people will have Sky Father-Earth Mother; Left-handed: Earth Mother-Sky Father.

When reading the two cards, notice any special relationship of the animals such as predator-prey or alliances. Do the animals belong to the same species group? Do they live in the same environment? These are clues as to what is out of balance in your life. Ask the animals to help you regain your balance.


SAMPLE READING:

Deck: “Druid Animal Oracle” by Philip Carr-Gomm, Stephanie Carr-Gomm, and Bill Worthington

This deck contains twenty-five animals important in Celtic Lore. Using this desk will restrict you to only animals of the British Isles. Therefore, you will need to look for more subtle clues in the cards.

After shuffling the cards, you draw Badger as Sky Father and Owl as Earth Mother. What do you know about this pair? They are different species, but both are warm-blooded carnivores. However, one prefers life on the earth, while the other prefers the skies. Badger lives in setts dug into in the ground; Owl lives in stick nests fashioned in trees. However in Celtic lore, Badger is the Keeper of Traditions, while Owl is one of the sixth Oldest Animals of the world. Seemingly opposite animals are subtly joined as one under Celtic traditions.

What is interesting is about this pair is that a land mammal is Sky Father; a bird is Earth Mother. What is significant is that they are warm-blooded carnivores that possess ancient wisdom. Badger and Owl suggests that perhaps you have been in one place too long in your life. It is time to move on. Use the wisdom of Badger and Owl to decide where your life path needs to go.

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A Note On Handedness and Cards

Most people think in terms of “right” as dominant and male. Since “right” is traditionally associated with sun and light, people see “right” as the ‘yang’ side. “Left” is associated with darkness and night, and is the ‘yin’ side.

However, in using objects such as cards, handedness does matters. A left-hander goes to the left and sees the left as natural. This runs counter to traditional thinking, which labels left as “sinister”. However, left-handed people give with their left and receive with their right, which is the opposite of right-handedness. If you think in terms of receiving and giving, then handedness matters. In two and three card spreads, this is something to be considered, especially when direction matters. The hand you use is the dominant male hand.

In many cultures, left-handedness is viewed as a bad omen. In many places, the use of the left-hand is taboo. Left-handed people are forced to eat and write right-handed. In Tarot cards, the Devil is left-handed symbolizing Western cultural view on “left”.

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For a two card reading ($US 15) : contact me at animalteachers @ gmail.com.

Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers Enterprises, 2008

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Symbols of Bull and Cow

COW AND BULL

Because of people’s familiarity with Cattle, they have labeled many Hoofed Mammals as “Bull” and “Cow”. Elephants, Moose, and even Seals are referred to in these terms. In addition, “Bull” is often used for powerful Males of other species as well.

BULL

As the King of his Herd, Bull rules absolutely, representing temporal power. In addition, for many ancient Europeans, He represented the Sky Gods. In Ancient Egypt, Apis Bull (a black Bull) was the incarnation of the Creator God Ptah. Now a force of nature, Bull becomes the fertilizing power of the heavens.

Ancient peoples often sacrificed Bulls for religious purposes. In the Cult of Mithras, Roman soldiers baptized their initiates in Bull’s blood. In the 1500s, Charles V, of Spain and the Holy Roman Empire, celebrated the birth of his son, Philip II, by killing a Bull. To stop the Black Plague in 1522, Pope Leo X allowed Bulls to be sacrificed.

Christians also had Bull represent aspects of their beliefs. A Bull being lead into an arena symbolizes Christ being led to the Cross. A kneeling Bull is a symbol of St. Silvester. To prove that Jesus Christ is the God of Life, St. Silvester brought a Bull back to life. Meanwhile, St. Luke’s attribute is a winged Ox (castrated bull).

COW

Cow converts plants into food, thereby providing nourishment for humans. For many people, She is the productive power of the earth. Hindus have Kamadhenu, the Cow of Plenty. Among the Celts, Faerie Cattle (Crodh Mara) were the embodiment of plenty.

Cows offer connections to various Gods. In the Vedic tradition, when people die, Celestial Cows guide them along to the Kingdom of the Blessed. In the Norse Sagas, Audhumla licked the ice and freed the Elder Gods. She nursed Ymir, who formed Buri, the first Man. Ancient Egpytians used Red Cows to pull the dead to their tombs. Among Jews, a Red Cow was sacrificed for the sins of Israel.

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

Cattle: Many Gifts

(Uruz, Fehu)

COW (Bovine Family): Many Gifts

Wild and Domestic Bovines have provided nourishment for people’s minds and bodies since Prehistory. These large Cud Eaters are at home nearly everywhere. Relatively low maintenance, Bovines breed well in captivity. Moreover, They can convert plants into nourishment for Themselves and people.

Providing milk, meat, hides and fuel, Bovines formed the foundation for many civilizations. Domestic Cows not only supplies meat and milk to people, but homes and fuel as well. In treeless areas, cow patties are used for fires. Meanwhile, Oxen plow fields and pull carts. Mongolians rely on Yak for everything. The Masai say that all Cows were given to them from N’gai, the Great God. Hindus see Zebus (Tropical Cattle) as “Second Mothers”.

Early Europeans tested their strength against Aurochs, the ancestor of today’s Domestic Cattle. Paintings of powerful Aurochs decorate caves of European Prehistory. Once roaming all of Eurasia, the last Aurochs became extinct in Poland in 1620. Aggressive and powerful, Aurochs became the Norse idea of strength (the Rune Uruz).

The closest relatives to the Aurochs today are the White Cattle of Chillingham. In his Herd, Bull rules his Harem like royalty. Only when He dies does a new King emerge. Meanwhile Cow leaves her herd to have Her Calf. When She is ready, Bull will escort Her and Her Calf back and introduce Them to the herd.



Because of what They have provided humans, Bovines are considered a symbol of wealth. In the Norse Runes, Fehu (cattle) meant wealth. Therefore cattle stealing became a crime worthy of death and of warriors. In stories of the American West, rustlers were hung. Ancient Greeks sang about the boldness of Hermes (Mercury) stealing the Cattle of Apollo (God of the Sun). The Cattle Raid of Cooley (Ta’in Bo’ Cuailnge) was the central epic in the Ulster Cycle of Irish literature. Stealing Cows from other tribes became a part of Masai culture.

Bovines offer people many gifts - of material wealth and of the imagination. The humble Cow feeds people meat and milk. Wild Aurochs feed the imagination of daring and courage. Together, They offer people the gifts of life.

Wisdom of the Cow Family Includes:
Strength
Interspecies Cooperation
Foundation of Life
Nourishment

Science Notes:
Wild Bovines includes: Gaur (Bos gaurus), Banteng (Bos javanicus), and Aurochs (Bos primigenius).
Domestic: Cattle and Zebu (Bos taurus), and Yak (Bos mutus)

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

Lessons from the Willow

Willow: Enchantment

As a tree of enchantments, willow was connected to love, magic, and the moon. Poets and seers would sit under a willow to gain eloquence and prophecy. Because the willow grows near water, the Celtics associated this tree with the lunar rhythms of life. In the Celtic Tree Alphabet (Ogham), willow (Saille) governs February, the fourth month of the Celtic calendar.

There are over 100 varieties of willows in North America. Most are only shrubs, but about forty attain tree size. Since willows like damp, wet places, they help in saving stream banks from eroding. Their strong roots seek water and hold the soil. Unlike oaks, willows are fast growing and short-lived trees.

Willow provides for people in many ways. The bark is used to bring down fevers. Not only do people make use of the bark, but they also cut the willow's supple branches for basket weaving. In early spring, people cut branches of pussy willows to decorate their houses.

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From “Whispers from the Woods” by Sandra Kynes: “Willow can teach you to go with the flow of life and be flexible.”

From “Nature-Speak” by Ted Andrews: “Willow alerts us to new opportunities to learn and explore.”

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008, animalteachers @ gmail.com

Sacred Baboon (Hamadryas): Many Aspects of Male Power

SACRED BABOON (Hamadryas): Many Aspects of Male Power

Living around the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, Sacred Baboon has been a part of the religion of the Ancient Egyptians since the Predynastic period. Because the ruling Sacred Baboon has a silver-grey mane, the Kings of Predynastic Egypt were referred to as the “Great White One”. Since Sacred Baboon barks at the sun at dawn, Ancient Egyptians also associated Him with Ra, God of the Sun.

However given Sacred Baboon’s aggression towards other Baboons, He is also Babi, the Devourer of the Souls of the Unrighteous. Babi controls the darkness, and opens the doors to Heaven only for the King. Since He kills people on sight, Babi is a dangerous God.

Unique among Baboons, Sacred Baboon lives in a patriarchal system. Bull Sacred Baboon has distinctive silver fur, marking his status as the Ruler. Larger than the other Baboons, He fiercely fights to keep his Harem.

Moreover, Sacred Baboon lives in a four-level social system (called fission-fusion). First level is a Harem of Bull Sacred Baboon and his Females. Second level is a Clan of two to four Harems. Third level is a Band of two to four Clans. The last level is a Troop of several Bands.

Life for a Troop consists of rising at sunrise and foraging for food. They rest at noon, and then are off for more foraging. At dusk, Sacred Baboon leads his Troop to a cliff ledge to sleep and to be safe from Leopard.

Sacred Baboon demonstrates the many aspects of male power. As an attendant of Ra, He greets the Sun. As Hapi, He is One of the Four Sons of Horus who guards the organs of the deceased. However as Babi, Sacred Baboon murders humans. Choose carefully which aspect of maleness you want to employ at what time.

Wisdom of Sacred Baboon (Hamadryas) Includes:
Touched by the Divine
Reconcile the Positive with the Negative
Effective Social Organization

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

Tree Dassies

Tree Hyrax (Tree Dassie): Setting Boundaries

One of the dominant arboreal Mammals in Africa is Tree Hyrax. Living high in the tree canopy, Tree Hyrax has a small area of the forest that is His, usually a single tree. Contorting his body, He navigates the “branch ways” of the rain forests with great agility. In the upper levels of the African jungles, He lives quite comfortably.

What people notice the most about Tree Hyrax is his screaming match with other Tree Hyraxes at night. Starting at dusk, He calls from his tree, using a low ringing sound. Repeating this sound, Tree Hyrax’s calls become louder and harsher. Finally, He screams out unearthly sounds, which resembles metal scraping against metal. Then silence falls in the jungle. After awhile, other Tree Dassies answer Him. As the night deepens, silence once again covers the forest.

Tree Hyrax screams out for all to hear, “This tree belongs to *ME*!” Then, Other Tree Hyraxes return with their screams, “This is *my* tree over here!” Together, They establish their boundaries without trouble.

Wisdom of Tree Hyrax Includes:
Being Agile
Effective Use of Screaming
“Walking on Air”

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

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Rock Hyrax: Being Helpful

Rock Hyrax (Rock Dassie): Being Helpful

Moving with great agility among the rocks, Rock Hyrax has feet that act like suction cups. Often seen sunning Himself on the rocks, He spends a lot of his time in large huddles with other Hyraxes. What makes Rock Hyrax unusual among Mammals is that He will share his rocks with Bush Dassie. These two Animals can be seen using the same sleeping areas as well. (Only Forest Monkeys will share their trees with other Monkeys.) Rock Hyrax grazes on grasses, while Bush Hyrax feeds on trees and bushes.

For such a small Animal, Mother Rock Hyrax has a very long pregnancy– about seven months. (Scientists believe that Rock Hyrax was once the size of an Ox, hence the long pregnancy.) Another unusual aspect of Mother Rock Hyrax’s life is the ‘dassie kindergarten’. While the other Mothers forage for food, one Mother Rock Hyrax will watch over Everyone’s Youngsters in a kindergarten.

In spite of being so unusual, Rock Hyrax has been apart of people’s lives for a long time. Described in Jewish and Christian Scriptures, as ‘Coney’ or ‘Rock Badger’, He referred to as ‘an unclean animal’. However, Rock Hyrax produces large quantities of hyraceum (dung and urine mixture), to make into epilepsy medicine for people today.

Rock Hyrax demonstrates how to be helpful. He shares his home with Bush Hyrax. Through his efforts, people with epilepsy have medicine. Meanwhile Mother Rock Hyrax runs a “day care” center for her Friends. These are examples in real helpfulness.

Wisdom of Rock Hyrax Includes:
Caring for Children
Sharing
“Live and Let Live”

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

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From Out of Africa: Dassies (Hyraxes)

HYRAX (DASSIE) FAMILY (HYRACOIDEA)
Look Deeper

Often seen sunning Themselves on rocks, Hyraxes were first called by Europeans ‘rock rabbits’. In addition, Afrikaners named these Survivors of an ancient order of Mammals, ‘Dassies’, which means “Badger”. Eventually, biologists placed Hyraxes in their own order – Hyracoidea.

What are these confusing Mammals? Very adaptable Animals, Hyraxes live in habitats ranging from dry savanna to dense rainforest. There are three families of Hyraxes – Rock, Bush, and Tree. Among the rocks and brush, Rock and Bush Hyraxes live together and have Kindergartens for their young. Meanwhile, Tree Hyraxes are known for their screaming matches conducted at night.

What makes Hyraxes relatives to Elephants are their toes. Like Elephants, Hyraxes have toes tipped with rounded nails. Hyraxes have surprises that people find fascinating, defying everyone’s ideas about Elephants. These rabbit sized Animals with short tails and peculiar hind feet are the closest relatives to Elephants.

Look deeper counsels Hyraxes. Neither Rabbits nor Badgers, They are relatives of the mighty Elephant. Expand your knowledge and see beyond the surface.

Wisdom of Hyraxes Include:
Solving Puzzles
Be Surprised
Expand Your Horizons


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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

Teachings of the Oak Tree

Oak
Strength and Warmth

Regarded as a symbol of strength of character, the oak has been the most widely revered of all trees. The oak hosts different forms of life in its branches, trunk, and roots. Because of this, oak is an emblem of hospitality and protection. In addition, many peoples have regarded oak groves to be sacred places.

In Maryland (USA) grew the famous Wye Oak, which had been the largest white oak in North America. In 2002, a wind blew down the 500-year-old tree. But before the tree fell, various people cloned the tree and saved acorns from the tree. One clone of the tree is growing at Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home.

When the tree died, people came from miles around to say good-bye to an old friend. The State of Maryland wrote this about Wye Oak, “The tree became more than just a living symbol of the State Tree. It stood to represent time passed and time to come, the generations of people it witnessed in life, and the perseverance of man and nature.”

From “Celtic Messages” by Joules Taylor: “The massive, sturdy Oak was the Tree of Life, sacred to the Druids. Its roots went deep into the Underworld, while its branches brushed the vault of the sky.”

From “Nature-Speak” by Ted Andrews: “The oak tree provides strength to everyone and reminds us that true strength is also gentle.”

Resources:
“The Quiet Giant, The Wye Oak” , http://www.dnr.state.md.us/forests/trees/giant.html
“Oak Trees Stories and Pictures” , http://www.arcytech.org/java/population/oak_stories.html


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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008, animalteachers @ gmail.com

Lessons of the Starlings

Endemic to Eurasia, starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are incandescent purple and green birds. Called “the poor man’s Myna”, starlings have a gift for mimicry and song. When they call to each other, starlings use their musical language. Their complex and varied calls include “flock”, “threat”, “attack”, and a host of others.

Flocking in the thousands, starlings will clean out fruit in orchards and seed sown in fields. As generalists, they can live anywhere except in dense wet forests. Moreover, these aggressive birds will chase other birds out of cavity nests, and take over.

Gathering in the thousands, starlings in flight are an awesome sight. In March, at Jutland Denmark, many starlings congregate in anticipation of their spring migration. As they rise as one, the birds blot out the sun. People call this gathering of the starlings: “Sorta Sol”, the Black Sun.

Introduced in North America and South Africa for their beauty, starlings now crowd out native birds. Meanwhile in Australia and New Zealand, they have not stopped the crop pests they were released to control. In contrast, starlings are almost extinct in their northern European range. (Large industrial farms have caused this decline.)

Starlings’ impact on their environment is complex. Because they flock in the thousands, starlings leave their guano everywhere. This is good for seed dispersal but creates health problems for humans. Also, by roosting in the thousands, starlings short out power stations.

Released in 1890 by Eugene Scheiffelin (of the American Acclimatization Society for European Settlers), starlings have spread from New York City to Alaska by 1970. In 1920, the starling population exploded in Ohio (which now hosts the largest breeding population of starlings in North America). By 1950, they ranged from Oregon to Florida.

Some naturalists have suggested a link between the extinction of the Carolina parakeet and the explosion of the starling population in North America. Living in similar regions, both species flocked in the thousands. Already in decline, Carolina parakeets were driven out by the aggressive starlings in some regions. By 1920, the parakeets were gone and starlings took over the niche of huge flocks of birds.

Starlings teach us the Law of Unintended Consequences. Before we do something, we need to be prepared for the ramifications of our actions. If we forget to do this, the starlings will remind us..

Sources:
Adeney, Jennifer Marion, “Introduced Species Summary Project: European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris)”, Columbia University, October 18, 2001, accessed 7 Nov 2008,

Withers, David Ian, “Origins of the European Starling in the United States”, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. March 1, 2000, accessed 7 Nov 2008

______, “European Starling”, National Invasive Species Information Center , U.S. Department of Agriculture, May 15, 2008, accessed 7 Nov 2008,

______, “Starling Fact Sheet”, Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission (GSMFC), June 10, 2008, accessed 7 Nov 2008


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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Working with Your Animal Allies, Teachers, and Totems

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Teachings of the Apple Tree

In the myths around the world, apples are symbols of choices and the giving of love. In many stories, people chose between innocence and knowledge. Furthermore, they must decide between the beauty of life and the beauty of youthfulness. Often times, people use apples as a symbol of love. Bobbing for apples was a folk custom to discover who your suitor would be.

In North America, the native apple tree is the crab apple tree. The fruit bearing varieties of orchards are from Eurasian trees brought over by early. However both species of tree are member of the rose family. Wild apple trees have thorns similar to roses.

Although apples stood for choice in myths, people used apples for medicine. Applesauce is easy to digest, and is often given to sick children. Even today, apples are used for diets of people with internal disorders, such as constipation. The saying of “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” has a basis in folk medicine and in fact. Apples contain much nutrition, aid in the digestion, and provide for tooth health.

From “Celtic Messages” by Joules Taylor: “The apple has long been regarded as a magical fruit, the fruit of gods, gifting the eater with immortality.”

From “Nature-Speak” by Ted Andrews: “The apple is a tree that awakens true desires of the heart.”

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008, animalteachers @ gmail.com

Nature Spirituality

My belief system is nature spirituality or what is known these days as “Eco-spirituality” (a movement that started in the 1980s). Nature spirituality is one of the oldest of the religions, and also one of the newest. In eco-spirituality, to experience nature is to experience the Divine.

In a nutshell, nature spirituality is about having an intimate relationship with nature. In this earth-based spirituality, people gain inner wisdom, balance, and healing through their personal experiences with the natural world. The goal of nature spirituality is to revere the interconnectedness of all. We live in a Sacred Circle of Life. We do not consider ourselves above others but instead regard the animals, plants, and rocks as our relations. We all share the same Mother Earth and Father Sky.

In their respective belief systems, many indigenous people honor nature. The people care for the earth, which cares for them. The earth offers her wisdom to those who are willing to receive it. The concept of interconnectedness is expressed as a circle also commonly known as a “medicine wheel”. All life exists in an interrelated system of harmony and balance that reflects the continuous flow of the Great Mystery between each being.

The salmon best symbolizes this interconnectedness. Salmon spawns in the clear inland pools. Growing, they swim to the seas where they live their adult lives.Then, the salmon return to their original spawning grounds to procreate and die. The dying salmon provides food for other animals. Or their bodies sink to the bottom to provide nutrients to the next generation of salmon.

Included in nature spirituality is the sense of “natural justice”. Since we are all related, what harm I do, will return to me. Also the concept of reciprocity is a part of the Sacred Circle. As we give, we receive; as we receive, we give. The circle ebbs and flows as in the Wheel of the Seasons. Life is never static, but always dynamic, always returning to the beginning.

“Mending the Sacred Hoop” is a Native American concept. It means to heal the broken places of the earth and all her children. This includes ridding the landscape of toxic waste, preserving natural places, and helping people to connect with their ancestral roots. To mend the Sacred Hoop means to restore respect for the Mother Earth and all things in the Universe.



Resources:

"Spirit Animals & The Wheel of Life: Earth-Centered Practices for Daily Living", by Hal Zina Bennett

"Earth Medicine", by Jamie Sams

Spirit Wolf’s Pagan Path: “Wheel of Life” http://www.paganspath.com/magik/wheel.htm

“Understanding Death from A Nature-Spirituality Perceptive”

White Elephant

Southeast Asia is known as the “Land of the White Elephant”. People there consider it an high honor to be compared to White Elephant. As a symbol of power and good fortune, White Elephant brings prosperity to those who respect Him. According to Buddhist scriptures, White Elephant presented Lord Buddha’s mother with a lotus flower to announce His Birth.

White Elephant’s Teachings Include:

“This was set out in a Buddhist text, the Three Worlds says: ‘The magnificent king has seven things: a perfect wife, and able treasurer, a wise chief minister, a swift horse, a wheel of the law and a precious gem to guide his actions: and the most noble of white elephants.’” - Copyright: “Talented Thai Elephants” website.
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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

Teachings of Cheetah

CHEETAH : Learning the Lessons of Overspecialization

Since the time of the ancient Egyptians, Cheetah has been a part of royalty. Called the Pharaoh’s Leopard, this speedy Mammal hunted game for Egyptian and Assyrian Pharaohs and Kings.. Genghis Khan and Charlemagne kept pet Cheetahs. Moreover, Jahangir, the Mughal Emperor of India (1605-1627) had a thousand Cheetahs for his hunting trips.

Built like a Greyhound, Cheetah is the fastest Mammal on land Unlike Horse, all of Cheetah’s feet leave the ground during his running. Cheetah’s major advantage for speed is his long flexible spine. His unusual body has baffled scientists about Cheetah’s “catness”. Finally, they placed Him in his own Cat Family (Acinonyx jubatus).

Widespread before the last Ice Age, now only a handful of Cheetahs survive today. Some scientists believe that all modern Cheetahs are descended from one Mother Cheetah. However, many do agree that there is little genetic diversity among Cheetahs. In fact, long before people started hunting Them, Cheetahs were in decline.

Known as the Spotted Wind, Cheetah does one thing and only one thing supremely well - chase down fast prey. However, this ability does not always help Him. While He is resting, Lions and Vultures can force a Cheetah to leave his kill. Instead of perfecting your running, perhaps you need to work on other skills. Learn the lessons of overspecialization from Cheetah.

Teachings of Cheetah:

Quick Decisions
Being Speedy
Flying While Grounded.


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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

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Asian Elephant: Close Friendships

For thousands of years, Asian Elephant has been a part of people’s lives. She has carried people, their burdens, and cleared their lands. Revered by Hindus as the God Ganesha, Asian Elephant represents wisdom and strength. Meanwhile, Buddhists see Her as a symbol of peace.

Once ranging from Iraq to China, Asian Elephant now lives wild in only a few areas. Led by an elderly Matriarch, Her Herd follows the same path through the jungles as their Grandmothers. Her Herd’s paths are known as “Elephant roads”, and are also traveled by people.

In her Herd, Asian Elephant forms fast friendships. If She becomes separated, She will emit a grumbling purr. Her low calls are heard by her Friends, who answer Her back. With her Friends, Asian Elephant is never alone.

When Asian Elephant is ready to deliver her Calf, She finds Her Best Friend. Together, They go off alone to deliver her Baby. Her Friend helps Asian Elephant in her time of need, and stands guard over her Calf, as well.

Asian Elephant Values close friendships within her Herd. They look out for Each Other and help with their Calves. Surrounded by loved ones, Asian Elephant the value of demonstrates close Friendships.

Asian Elephant’s Wisdom Include:

Wisdom of Grandmothers
Service to Others
Being Respected and Loved

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

Flying Lemurs

FLYING LEMUR (COLUGO) FAMILY (DERMOPTERA)
Listen to Your Inner Voice

Despite their name, Flying Lemurs neither fly nor are Lemurs. They have long, pointed snouts and large protruding eyes. Flying Lemurs do look like Lemurs but are more closely related to Bats. Master gliders, They are classified in their own order called Dermoptera, which means “skin wing”. Gliding from tree to tree, They scramble up trunks to gain height before launching off into another glide.

Found in Southeast Asia, Flying Lemurs are fond of fruit, young leaves, and flowers. Although Flying Lemurs are placental, They suckle their young in a “protective hammock” similar to a marsupial’s pouch. Like Sloths, Flying Lemurs spend much of their days upside down.

Known also as Colugos, Flying Lemurs are solitary nighttime feeders. Because They are solitary and shy, not much is known about these strange Animals. However, most scientists agree that Flying Lemurs are the best adapted to flight after Bats.

As an Animal of mystery, Flying Lemurs have their quirks. From hanging upside down to nursing their Babies in a skin hammock, Flying Lemurs listen to their inner voices. Superbly suited for gliding, They are a walking parachute. In a single leap, a Flying Lemur will sail 330 feet (100m) from tree to tree for They know their abilities. They listen to their inner voices, and you should too.

Flying Lemur (Colugo)’s Wisdom Includes:

Leap of Faith
Sailing Through Life’
“Going Your Own way”

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

The Elephant Family: Reconnect With Your Past

ELEPHANT FAMILY (PROBOSCIDEA)

Reconnect With Your Past

At one time, the earth was filled with trunked Mammals (Proboscidea), but now there are only two left – Asian Elephant and African Elephant (who are not close relatives). Although the Asian Elephant (Elephas maxims) and the African Elephant (Lexodonta African) are the only remaining Members of the Proboscidea Order, They are not close relatives of Each Other. The Asian Elephant, which is closer to Mammoths, evolved as a separate Asian species. African Elephants have larger ears and a sloped head, while Asian Elephants have a domed head.

Originally from Africa, Elephants spread across the earth. However, African Elephant remained close to his ancestral home. Now, only two Elephants remain along with their close relatives: Sea Cows and Dassies (Hyraxes).

Beings from the past, Elephants come to show us the way home. Once these ancient Beings covered the earth, now the One who survived retain the old memories of their home. Go back in time with Elephants and see the world when it was new. Reconnect with your past. Come home.

Wisdom of the Elephant Family:

Ancient Wisdom
Strength
Coming Home

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

Sengi (Elephant Shrew): In A Class By Yourself

ELEPHANT SHREW (SENGI) FAMILY (MACROSCELIDEA):
In A Class By Yourself

Neither Elephants nor Shrews, Elephant Shrews are now called Sengi, their Bantu name. Since They have large, powerful hind legs, Elephant Shrews were also called “jumping shrews”. Because they look like Shrews with long elephant trunks, scientists had problems placing them with other Animals. Eventually, biologists placed Sengi in their own order – Macroscelidea. However, they are believed to be distant relatives of Elephants.

With their long trunk-like snouts, Sengi probe the ground for Insects and roots. Finding a tasty Insect, Sengi digs it out with their long claws. Using their long tongue, Sengi flicks the small insect into their mouth. Even though Sengi have good eyesight and hearing, They prefer sniffing out food with their elephant-like noses.

One of the few Mammals who live in pairs, the two Sengi actually spends little time with each other. After mating, Mother Sengi raise their Youngsters alone. Meanwhile, Father Sengi continues to patrol their small territory. After the Youngsters are grown, Mother Sengi joins in fending off other Sengi from their territory.

Confusing at first to many people, Sengi are unique Mammals. These rodent-size Mammals are related to the larger Elephants and Sea Cows. Small but mighty, Sengi are in a class by themselves. Like Sengi, you can be in class by yourself. You can follow your own way to excellence.

Wisdom of Elephant Shrew / Sengi

Being Small But Mighty
Fidelity
Teamwork

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

Peccary / Javelina

Peccary / Javelina : Living in Close Knit Groups

Fierce and tenacious, Peccary was called by the Spanish: “Javelina” - the spear. This New World Relative of the Pig has tusks that grow downwards like daggers. Her canine teeth are normally used for cutting and slashing. However, when confronted, Peccary will click her teeth and charge.

Small and compact, Peccary has a grizzled brown body with a band of white hair. Mistaken for Pig by Europeans, She is a member of the Tayassuidae (Peccary) Family instead of the Suidae (Pig) Family. Unlike Pigs, Peccary has four hoofed toes on her front feet and three on her back ones.

What Peccary is known for is her musk smell. Also called “Musk Hog”, wherever She goes, She leaves a musk trail. Peccary also sniffs musk left behind to find out what her Friends are doing. Leaving musk everywhere is her form of “text messaging.” Even when They greet Each Other, Peccaries will sniff the Other’s rump.

Highly social, Peccary travels with her herd through the deserts and rainforests of the New World. The Tupi of Brazil called Her, “Pecary” meaning “many paths through the woods.” With her herd, Peccary ranges far and wide for food.

Living in a close knit group, Peccary safely roams her vast territory. Her Herd can even fends off Jaguar and Coyote. However, do not become so close knit that you drive off your own family members away as Peccary does.

Wisdom of the Peccary:
Keeping in Touch
Many Paths to Your Destination
Being Fierce and Tenacious

Science Notes:
Other names for Peccary: Musk Pig, Javelina. DO NOT Feed Peccaries or you will be attacked.

Razorbacks (Hogs) are feral pigs that escaped from the Spanish.

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

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The Pink Dolphins of the Amazon

Amazon River Dolphin / Boto : Living As One

Shocking pink with small grey eyes, Boto both surprises and enchants people. Unlike his Ocean-going Cousins, He navigates the world of the Amazon River Basin. With grace and ease, Boto swims over submerged logs and flooded tree tops. So flexible is his body, that He can touch his nose to his tail. Like the mysterious and strange world of the Amazon, Boto Himself is an enigma. For example, He sleeps upside down like a dead Goldfish.

“Encantado” is what the local people call Him. Since they share the Amazon with Boto, the local people are mystically tied to Him. Below the murky waters lies an enchanted world ruled by Boto. Because of his magic, they tell strangers: “Be Care with those Pink Dolphins!” (“Cuidado como boto”) for Boto can steal you away to his world.

This ancient River Whale uses his bendy body to swim over and under submerged trees. Through the murky depths, He steers with his long flippers . During the dry season, Boto walks on land with them from one water hole to another. Within the gristle of his flippers, you can still see the “fingers” of his former legs.

As the Amazon changes, so does Boto. His life is tied to this great river which in turn is tied to humanity. We live as a whole - Boto, the Amazon, and Humans. When the rainforest disappears, so will Boto and a piece of ourselves. We will lose the ability to be enchanted and surprised. We all live as one entity.

Amazon River Dolphin / Boto’s Teaching Include:

“The people here have a belief about the bufeo Colorado. They live in our world, but they also live beneath the water in a more beautiful world. We call it the Encante. The bufeo is boss of this magical world. And the bufeo has many magical powers.” - Juan Huanakiri of the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Community

Amazon River Dolphin / Boto’s Wisdom Includes:

Being enchanted
How to be Shocking and Endearing
At One with Nature

Science Notes: Boto is also called: Pink Dolphin, Bufeo Colorado, and Boutu Vermelho
Boto (Inia geoffrensis) is not the same as Tucuxi (Sotalia fluviatlis), the Grey Dolphin which also inhabits the river basin and the coast.

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

Giant Panda: Embrace Diversity

A survivor of the last Ice Age, Giant Panda belongs to the oldest family of the most primitive bears (Ailuropodinae). Although He has a digestive system of a meat eater, Giant Panda feeds exclusively on bamboo. Until DNA testing became available, scientists could not identify what Mammal Family Giant Panda belonged to.

Sitting on his rump, this ancient Bear grasps bamboo shoots and calmly munches away at them. His “thumb” makes Giant Panda unique among animals. This elongated wrist bone gives Him an extra opposable digit on his paw. Giant Panda uses this as a “hand” when He eats.

Because bamboo was so plentiful and widespread in South Asia, Giant Panda decided to become solely dependent on this plant. Now that the bamboo forests are fragmented, Giant Panda is severely endangered. Because of his specialization, He cannot go back to the omnivore habits of his fellow Bears.

Giant Panda asks people to embrace diversity. He is a Bear who eats exclusively plants. He has a “thumb” unlike any other Animal. However, do not become so unique that you endanger yourself.

Teachings of the Giant Panda:
“What is black and white and black and white and black and white? Pandas symbolize the diversity and tenacity of life.” Copyright: Lance Craighead, “Bears of the World”.

Wisdom of the Giant Panda:
Being Unique
Tenacity
Becoming a Vegetarian

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

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Nest Boxes: Wrens

Wrens are creative nesters, who will nest in plant pots and empty coconut shells. What is important to a wren is the availability of insects. Lots of food and no nearby birds make for a happy wren. Intensely competitive for food, a wren will puncture holes in the eggs of other birds (including other wrens) nesting nearby.

Wrens are also choosy about the size of the nest box’s entrance hole. They require a hole large enough for them to get in and out of. However, the hole has to be small enough for no other bird to use. Because they bring in long twigs, wrens requite a wide hole, therefore the entrance should be wide but narrow.

For an enclosed nest box: Place hanging 5 to 10 feet (1.5 m to 3m) near trees.
Entrance hole size: 1 1/8 inches (30 mm).
Height to the hole from base: 7 inches (180 mm)
Base: 4 inches by 4 inches (100 x 100 mm)

Sources:
Burton, Robert, “North American Birdfeeder Handbook”, Dorling Kindersly, New York, 1995.

Harrison, George and Kit, “America’s Favorite Backyard Birds”, Fireside, New York, 1983.

Bromley, Peter T. and Aelred D. Geis, Feeding Wild Birds, Publication Number 420-006, Virginia Cooperative Extension, April, 1998, 20 Sept. 2008

Evans, Keith, Wasatch Audubon Society: Birding 101: Nest Boxes, 20 Oct. 2008

The Anteater Family: Conservation

Anteater Family: Conservation

Solitary Mammals, Anteaters live in the grasslands, savannas, and tropical forests of Central and South America. The most well-known of Anteaters, Giant Anteater has a long, tubular snout and a long, thin tongue. Spending her day shuffling awkwardly along on her knuckles, She sniffs for Ants and Termites. Finding an ant hill, Giant Anteater catches them with her long tongue, rapidly flicking it in and out of an ant hill.

Cousins of Giant Anteater, Tamanduas partially live in trees. These smaller Anteaters move from tree limb to tree limb, capturing Ants with their tongues or with their sticky fingers. Unlike Giant Anteaters, Tamanduas are active at night.

The smallest of the Anteaters, Silky Anteater lives exclusively in the trees of the rainforest. Called “silky”, this Anteater resembles the seed pod of the silk-cotton tree. To hide from Jaguar and Harpy Eagle, He remains motionless on that tree.

Anteaters roam widely from termite nest to nest. Although one Anteater eats 35,000 insects a day, They eat lightly from each nest. Anteaters make sure that Insects on their feed route can replenish their numbers. This method provides a continual food source for Them. Learn how to conserve from these odd-looking Mammals.


Wisdom of the Anteater Family:
Being Strange and Wonderful
Getting Ride of Pests
The Wandering Life
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Science Note: Many animals that are called “anteaters” are not related to the Anteater family. Banded Anteater (Numbat) is a marsupial. Spiny Anteater (Echidna) is an egg-laying mammal. Scaly Anteater (Pangolin) is in a mammal family of itself.

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes:
Finding Your Animal Teachers
Animals For Everyone: Mammals

Teachings of the Giant Anteater: Enjoy the Scenery

Giant Anteater: Enjoy the Scenery

The largest of all the Anteaters, Giant Anteater is a comical looking Animal with her long nose and hairy tail. Rare among Mammals, Giant Anteater has no teeth. Sniffing out Ants with her spectacular nose, Giant Anteater vacuums Them up. (Her long nose is a bone tube fused by her upper and lower jaws.)

Shuffling along on her knuckles to protect her sharp claws, Giant Anteater roams the swamps and open forests of South America in search of tasty Insects. Smelling a Termite mound, She digs into it dislodging the hapless Insects. Discovering a log, Giant Anteater tears into it for Ants. Her acute hearing also allows Her to hear the Insects as They escape.

Because Giant Anteater has the lowest body temperature of any land Mammal, She has to sleep fifteen hours a day. Finding an abandoned burrow, She curls up and sleeps. Her long brushy tail acts as a sunshade and blanket.

Giant Anteater asks us to take the time to enjoy the scenery. Leisurely roaming from place to place, She finds new smells and sounds to delight in. Lingering long enough to savor them, Giant Anteater moves on to the next adventure.

Wisdom of the Giant Anteater:
Take the Slow Road
Make Time for Leisure
Sniffing Out Good Things

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes:
Finding Your Animal Teachers
Animals For Everyone: Mammals

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UCIrvine has as their mascot the Anteater.

Wisdom of Beavers: Doing What is Effective

(From U.S. Forest Service)

Beaver: What is Effective

Before extensive trapping by humans, Beavers could be found in all parts of Europe, in Siberia, and as far south as the Euphrates River. An animal of the Northern forests, Beaver is rarely seen by people in the United States. However, this nocturnal and shy Animal intrudes in people’s lives by chewing down their trees.

A keystone species, Beaver creates rich habitats for animals and people. By building dams and designing waterways, Beavers provide flood control. The pond, created by the dam, is not only a place for Fish, Frogs, and Birds but also insurance in times of drought. When Beavers abandon their dam to build another one someplace else, the waters recede creating prime meadows for small Mammals.

Wildlife rehabilitators find Beavers to be affable characters. Beavers are gentle reasoning beings who enjoy playing practical jokes. Wildlife managers usually throw up their hands at preventing Beavers from eating prime trees. The average Beaver generally beats them at every trick the park managers use to save the trees. Let Beaver teach you through her gentle jokes what is effective.


Beaver’s Wisdom Includes:
Gentle Teaching
Purpose in What You Do
Creator of Heaven and Earth

Science Note:
Mountain Beavers (Aplodontiarufa) of North America are not related to Beavers. These animals are the sole surviving member of an ancient rodent family. One of the most primitive rodents in the world, Mountain Beavers can only be found in the temperate rainforests in the Northwest.


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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes:
Finding Your Animal Teachers
Animals For Everyone: Mammals

Big Brown Bat: Inadvertent Consequences

(“Radar” of Organization for Bat Conversation. Adopt him from “Sponsor A Bat Program”)

Originally a forest dweller, Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus) now roosts in attics. Moreover, He makes his home in the eaves of people’s houses. Seen around city traffic lights, Big Brown Bat hunts for Insects along the tree-lined streets. He has maternity roosts in bridges, and eats the bugs attracted there by the headlights of cars.

Found in the Americas, Big Brown Bat tolerates the cold by hibernating during the winter. He can be found sleeping in tunnels and abandoned mine shafts. Unlike other Bats, Big Brown Bat lives for as long as 18 years. Biologists believe that his hibernation is the major reason for his long life. Also, his relatively large size allows Him to remain active in cooler weather.

Beneficial to people, Big Brown Bat eats as many as 1,200 Insects in one hour. Flying in a stately, unwavering manner, He is an agile hunter, trapping Moths by throwing his wings around Them like a net. Although, He is still abundant, his numbers are decreasing yearly.

Although harmless to people, Big Brown Bat is often killed by chemical wood preservers that humans apply to their house rafters. Moreover, people view him as a pest. However, instead of killing this Bat, people should be happy that He is there combating insect pests.

 As a part of human-bat relations, put up bat-specific artificial roosts nearby your home. This will give Big Brown Bat a safe home and help to keep the insect populations down. Other ways of helping Him is to encourage farmers to have Maternity Colonies on their property or help in Bat conservation efforts. Encourage engineers to design bridges for Big Brown Bat to safely roost in with his Pups.

Big Brown Bat teaches knowing the inadvertent consequences of your actions. He only wants to eat harmful Insects, not die by unthinking people who use chemicals in their homes. Remember to measure and weigh your actions before doing anything. As for Big Brown Bat, construct bat houses for Him to live in.

Wisdom of Big Brown Bat:
Helpfulness
Living in Harmony
Finding Your Niche in Life

Conservation Note: White Nose Syndrome has decimated bat colonies in North America. Governments and scientists are working on inoculating the remaining populations.

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008
From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes:
Finding Your Animal Teachers
Animals For Everyone: Mammals

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Find out more about how to help bats:
Bat Conservation International

Fruit Bats (Flying Foxes): Know What is Important

Know What is Important

Flying Foxes (Pteropdidae) have large eyes, oval ears, and excellent memories. These large Bats differ greatly from their smaller insect-eating Cousins. Instead of using echolocation, Flying Foxes use their excellent sight and hearing to find fruit. They roost outside in the sun instead of in caves.

Once a suitable roosting area is found, Flying Foxes mass in the tens of thousands. These semi-permanent spots or camps may hold as many as one million Bats. At night, they leave their camps to search for flowers and tasty fruit.

What people notice the most about Flying Foxes is their screeching. Their mixture of screeches and cackles is their bat language. Flying Foxes “squabble” to establish roosting sites, ward off rivals, talk to their Pups, and warn others. (They, also, watch the body language of each other as well.)

Because They roost in orchards, Flying Foxes are coming into conflict with people. Australian farmers see Them as pests since They cause damage to the fruit trees. These Mammals are becoming endangered by human encroachment on their habitats. Since Flying Foxes are important pollinators like Bees, people must learn to protect and live with Them.

The peoples of Australia and Asia see Flying Foxes as being strong and good. These Bats feed on the fruit and flowers of the rainforests, making the land fertile. Samoans call Flying Fox, manu lagi, "Animal of the Heavens." Flying Foxes may be noisy and shrill but they pollinate the islands spreading goodness. Flying Fox Family teaches what is important.

Wisdom of the Fruit Bat (Flying Fox) Family:
 Living in Large Groups
Recognize Your Gifts
Know Your Importance
Fertility
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Science Notes:
Australian government authorities warn people not to handle fruit bats since they carry Australian Bat Lyssavirus. These bats are under protection in Australia.

Flying Foxes look like foxes but they are not. Scientists have placed these fruit bats in the Bat Family, but they are still deliberating the exact relationship between the ‘micro‘ or smaller bats and flying foxes.

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008
For insights into your animal teachers, contact me at animalteachers @ gmail.com

Teachings of the Nine-banded Armadillo

Move Out of Your Comfort Zone

Digging with her strong front claws, Nine-banded Armadillo kicks away the excavated dirt with her hind legs. When digging for Ants and Grubs, She avoids getting dust up her nose by holding her breath. With her strong sense of smell, Nine-banded Armadillo searches for roots, fruits, dead animals, and bird’s eggs. Encountering a termite nest, She pokes her long sticky tongue into the nest and draws out the Insects.

Unlike other Armadillos, Nine-banded Armadillo is fond of water. She is the only Armadillo that can swim. She inflates her stomach and intestines with air to keep afloat, and then paddles across the pond. When encountering a small stream, Nine-banded Armadillo will walk on the bottom, holding her breath.

The other way that Nine-banded Armadillo differs from other Armadillos is that She has expanded her range to North America. Her territory now goes from Argentina to the Southeastern United States, and is still increasing. This is because Nine-banded Armadillo is highly adaptable. As long as Nine-banded Armadillo has Insects to eat and earth to dig in, She can thrive.

Because of her week immune system, Nine-banded Armadillo is a carrier of leprosy (Hansen’s disease). For that reason, it is illegal to sell live armadillos in Texas (US). Because She gives birth to four identical babies (pups), medical researchers are studying Nine-banded Armadillo in order to develop a vaccine for this horrible disease.

Because of her habit of jumping when startled, Nine-Banded Armadillo often becomes road kill. Undeterred She continues her expansion northward. Swimming streams and crossing highways, Nine-banded Armadillo goes forward, never backward. Learn from Her how to move beyond your comfort zone, just don‘t startle so easily.

Teachings of Nine-banded Armadillo:
“Many people feel drawn to Armadillo for its quiet reserve, its sense of invulnerability, and its attitude of comic detachment as it plods along, knowing that any animal with a grain of self-respect and good reasoning capacities will give it a wide berth. Armadillo lives in its own little shell.” Copyright, Hal Zina Bennett, “Zuni Fetishes”.

Wisdom from Nine-banded Armadillo:
Whimsy
Looks Can Be Deceiving
Variety in One’s Inner Life

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008
Find your animal teachers, contact me at animalteachers @ gmail.com

Adventures in Feeding Birds (2)

Watching birds come and go at my feeder has been fascinating. More birds arrive in the mornings rather than in the afternoons. Alone and in pairs, chickadees, finches, jays, nuthatches, sparrows, titmice, and more feed daily. In the afternoon, a pair of squirrels (litter mates) come to the feeding table.

To attract the wrens and song sparrows, I set out dried grapes, millet, oatmeal, suet, and peanut butter. Although some wrens did visit to eat the fruit flies from the bananas, the song sparrows came more frequently. The suet also attracted Carolina chickadees, tufted titmice and nuthatches. I was surprised that they would leave their trees to come and eat at my table.

The most timid of birds, the titmice nervously check out my feeder. They hop on the balcony railing, then the chair, table, and finally the feeder. If one of us are moving about in the living room, they fly away. When another bird flies by, the titmice disappear. However, they do come back after scoping out the area.

In contrast, the English sparrows are cool customers. They do not care who else is there. Acting as if they own the place, these sparrows plunk themselves down wherever. As other birds come and go, they fluff themselves out and watch the parade.

A ladder-backed woodpecker comes to feed as well. Once she brought her fledgling and fed him on the railing. Wielding her beak as a dagger, this woodpecker battle the squirrels for food. Meanwhile, they twitch their tails and “chee” at her. Then the squirrels would move far away from the menacing woodpecker.

I enjoy the antics of the squirrels. Seemingly as if they flying in the air, the squirrels sail from tree to tree to the railing to the feeder. The one-eared squirrel will stare at me for more food. If I do not respond, she taps on the window at me to come and feed her.

Meanwhile, a young blue jay perches on the railing, squawking at me for more food. Daily he comes and he taps on the window when he cannot find the food he likes. I think it is funny that the young jay thinks he rules the feeder. Actually, the woodpecker with her stiletto beak is the true monarch.

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

Teachings of the Aardvark: Courage

In Afrikaans, Aardvark means “earth pig”, since She looks like a Pig and is a digger. However, Aardvark is in a Mammal Order by Herself (Tubulidentata) and has no living relatives. Although her muscular body is like a Pig’s, Aardvark’s short, powerful limbs are equipped with sharp claws.

After sunset, Aardvark leaves her burrow to search for her favorite food – Termites. With her long rabbit-like ears and long snout, She zigzags across the grasslands nosing about for Termites. When Aardvark finds a termite mound, She burrows through the concrete-like earth with her thick study claws. Pushing her blunt snout into the hole She just dug, Aardvark catches the termites with her long, worm-shaped tongue.

Although, Aardvark is timid, She will fend off her attackers such as Wild Dogs. She will lie on her back and lash out at them with all four of her feet. More often than not, Aardvark will try to escape from danger by running for cover or digging a hole and hiding in it. Aardvark has many ways to defend Herself. Digging and hiding or slashing, Aardvark uses what she can to save Herself.

Because of Aardvark’s ability to burrow through hard ground, Africans make charms from her claws to open barriers. Since she is resourceful, Africans in the Congo wear necklaces made from her teeth for good luck. Africans hold this timid but courageous Animal in high regard.

Learn daring from Aardvark. Gathering up her courage, She goes out nightly to search for a tasty meal of Termites. To live in such a dangerous world, Aardvark has many ways to keep Herself from harm. Remember to be alert is to be safe.

Aardvark’s Teachings Include:
“Reminder that what has been hidden will be unearthed if we continue to dig.” Copyright, Ted Andrews, “Animal-Wise.”


Aardvark’s Wisdom Includes:
Self-defense
“Sniffing out” What is Right
Discerning Truth from Lies
Opening Doors

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008. To know about your animal friends, contact me at animalteachers @ gmail.com

Animal Divination: Signs of Warning

Divination is the magical skill that I am focused on improving. Currently, I am learning how to divine as the ancient Romans did. Lightening strikes and thunderstorms were signs from the various Gods, but usually from Jupiter, the Ruler of the Gods. But, birds such as eagles, hawks, and vultures were also Jupiter’s signs of good will. Meanwhile owls, crows, and ravens were warnings of doom.

In my daily life, I notice the animals, and what they are doing. For example, squirrels issue warnings when something is amiss. For me, chipmunks are a warning sign. When financial affairs need my attention, a chipmunk appears. Vultures are another sign to check my money. Both alert me to be wary of being cheated.

Certain animals have personal meanings for me. A sign from Mars, the God of War, woodpeckers tell me that I will be victorious. Meanwhile, crows mean magic is afoot. Hawks warn me of predators.

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If you want a reading, contact Virginia Carper at animalteachers @ gmail.com.

The Value of Myths

Myths are the spoken wisdom of the collective unconscious of humanity. They are a map to the inner wisdom of our ancestors. Myths tap into a dimension of the universe that is inaccessible by other means. They are a way to get in touch with archetypal wisdom of the collective unconscious. We can access this fundamental wisdom for our concerns and endeavors. Through myths, we become connected to our Inner Guide.

For example, the Hero’s journey is a coming of age story. The hero leaves home, as an untried youth, only to uncover their destiny. Along the way, the hero encounters helpers, overcomes obstacles, and learns their soul’s purpose. In facing the darkness during their travels, the hero finds their path to inner wisdom.

Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers 2008, contact me at animalteachers @ gmail.com

Adventures in Bird Feeding (1)

Food Plans for Wrens and Sparrows

In my area of Northern Virginia, wrens (Carolina and house) and sparrows (song and tree) are common. Because I live in a semi-urban area, I decided that these birds would be easy to attract. On my small balcony of my condo, I have a table that I use to feed the birds.

Because wrens rarely eat anything other than insects, I decided to put bananas out to see if they would eat the fruit flies. Since wrens are fond of suet, bread crumbs, and dried grapes, I have put out suet and grapes for them. Insects and suet have protein for the birds, while bread and grapes provide their energy needs.

After researching about the needs of sparrows, I decided on millet to encourage them to come to my feeder. Since my area is rich in cardinals, I decided not to put out sunflower seeds because this food attracts these birds. Even though the sparrows like sunflower seeds, I want the smaller birds to get their share in food.

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Burton, Robert, “North American Birdfeeder Handbook”,Dorling Kindersly, New York, 1995.

Harrison, George and Kit, “America’s Favorite Backyard Birds”, Fireside, New York, 1983.

Bromley, Peter T. and Aelred D. Geis, Feeding Wild Birds, Publication Number 420-006, Virginia Cooperative Extension, April, 1998, 20 Sept. 2008

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

Dragons and People

("My dragon" by Maryann Sterling)

From “Dragons!”: “Dragons and People” by Virginia Carper

People and dragons have a long history together. The world over, people have told of friendly dragons bringing rain or ancient ones creating the cosmos. Until recently, people believed that they could actually go out and see the dragons. When the scientists started measuring Nature’s secrets, the dragons disappeared. However, they simply chose to remain out of sight. Today the dragons choose to reveal themselves to those who seek them with an open heart.

History

· Mythology: At first, people personified demonic and divine forces. To the ancient peoples, dragons were the forces of nature in all her aspects.

· Hearsay Animals: Then, travelers from faraway places told about the exotic creatures they saw to their neighbors. For example, Romans reported on the dragons living in Joppa in the Middle East.

· Medieval Dragons: During the Middle Ages, various bestiaries listed dragons, detailing their habits. In addition, many noble people had them on their family crests.

· From Actual to Mythical: In the 1700s, scientists started collecting natural histories. Then, dragons seemingly disappeared. Afterwards, modern people sought rational explanations for every phenomenon.

· Return of Mythical Beasts: However, dragons never really went away. The mythic imaginations of modern people led scholars to collect tales of dragons. Today, we discover dragons in movies and find them in books.

Today

Where can the dragons be found today? How do we begin the search? How do we deepen relations with the dragons, we meet? What can the dragon stories, from around the world, tell us? What is the true dragon treasure that we search for? Only each of us can answer those questions in our own way.

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Purchase "Dragons" from Lulu.com: "Dragons!" by Virginia Carper. E-book: $US 5.19, hardback: $US 12.00

What is a mythic animal?

What is a mythic animal? A product of people’s imaginations? Traditionally, they are animals that do not exist. As combinations of several real animals, many mythical animals have the characteristics of these animals. For example, griffins are half-lion and half-eagle. Lions and eagles both represent royalty. Moreover, the eagle is the Ruler of the Skies and the lion, Ruler of the Land. Griffins govern both realms.

Mythic animals live at the edges of our minds. Moreover, they live in our world, in places where everything is a little wild and primitive. Furthermore, we may encounter them, when we least expect it. For example, on a foggy day or a moonlit night, you may glimpse one.

The edges of cultivated areas and wild areas are the best places to encounter mythic animals. Since they are “between places”, these border areas have great power and mystery. At marshes and beaches, encounters with water beasties often occur. Also, you can come upon mythic animals in the deserts or deep in the forests, where things are lonely and wild.

Purchase from Animal Teachers: http://www.lulu.com/content/632373
Mythic Animals! $US 12 hard back, $US 5.59 e-book.
Or it's companion: "Dragons"

The Great Round of Life

Ancient peoples perceived the world as the Great Round. Observing the cycles of the sun and moon, they viewed time as a circle. In fact the ancient Greeks called the changing stars of the sky: "The Circle of Animals", commonly known today as the Zodiac.

In the Great Round, there is the coming of Heroes and the aging of Kings. Cyclical time is endless, offering a moral dimension that linear time lacks. People repeat the cycle at different points and experience the same things from different perspectives.

An outward manifestation of the reverence for circles is sacred places in nature. Circles of stones dot the European and North American landscape. Another manifestation is stories of beings traveling in and out of connecting worlds. Myths of dragons and fairies are actually stories of interactions between various circles of existence.

Circles of Animals

Many cultures saw the passing of time in terms of animals. The Greeks saw animals in the stars. The animal signs of the Zodiac are Ares the Ram and Taurus the Bull of spring, Cancer the Crab and Leo the Lion of the summer, Scorpio the Scorpion of the fall, and Capricorn the Goat and Pisces the Fish of the winter. (These animals feature prominently in Greek and later Roman mythology.)

Native American Medicine Wheel

In the western areas of North America are large stone wheels, formed in prehistory. Called "medicine wheels", they reflect the Native Americans reverence for the Four Directions. Although many Indian Nations have different interpretations of the Medicine Wheels, they do agree that the Four Directions are governed by various animals.

Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008. Contact animalteachers @ gmail.com

Other Worldly Beings: Star Trek: The Next Generation (2)

("Picard and Q" courtesy of StarTrek.com)

As an Old Soul, Picard goes toe-to-toe with Q to defend humanity. Deeply committed to humanity‘s evolution, Picard fights Q’s machinations. He challenges Q, “If we are going to be damned, let us be damned for what we really are.”

With his knowledge of the law, Picard becomes “Perry Mason” (the fictional lawyer) to thwart Q. Frustrated with Picard, Q becomes more arbitrary in his actions. Then in a “Perry Mason moment”, Picard thunders at him, “It is **your** conduct that is uncivilized!” Because, he knows that humanity has progressed, Picard sees through Q’s baiting. Finally using his authority, Picard, the Old Soul, orders the omnipotent Q off *his ship*.

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(Mason and his secretary, Della Street)
Perry Mason: From stories written by Erle Stanley Gardner, "Perry Mason" the TV series (1957 - 1966) set the tone for other lawyer/mystery series. Mason, a defense attorney, solved cases through logic and close observation.




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Other Worldly Beings: Star Trek: Next Generation (1)

(Deanna Troi and William Riker, courtesy of StarTrek.com)


When I watched the first episode of “STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION” (1987-1994, Roddenberry): “Encounter at Far Point” (101, 102), I thought that several of the characters were “other-worldly beings”. Captain Jean-Luc Picard was an Old Soul. Commander William Riker was an Incarnated Star Person, and Counselor Deanna Troi, an Incarnated Angel.

As an Incarnated Angel, Troi uses her special abilities to heal. With her luminous looks, she conveys an aura of healing and serenity. Being an empath, she struggles to shield herself from the painful emotions of others. Because she is an Incarnated Angel, Troi seeks to quiet people’s roiling emotions. In encountering the two nebulous space aliens, Troi puts herself at risk to aid them. Although, their pain and anger overwhelms her, she continues to help them.

Unlike Troi who is a Betazoid, Riker is an Incarnated Star Person in a human body. In fact, he has a prior relationship with her. Because of their deep relationship, Troi and Riker greet the other telepathically as “Imazi”. Besides being comfortable with non-humans, Riker treats Data, the android, as a person and not a curiosity.

When Picard orders him to join the Enterprise’s two halves manually, Riker does so with great aplomb. While the rest of the crew is nervous, he is relaxed. Moreover, Riker reassures the crew that everything will be fine. As an Incarnated Star Person, he is used to meeting these challenges, and merges the two parts of the spaceship with ease.

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008, animalteachers @ gmail.com
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Meditation (3)

In midmorning, I did this meditation after I fixed a pot of tea. I find that drinking tea relaxes me. Taking tea encourages me to go into a trance. Sitting at the kitchen table, I did the meditation.

The cool light of the moon filled up the sky. Big, round, and softly glowing, the moon sent out a shaft of light. Wrapping me around itself, the shaft became me. Together, we slid down the Tree of Life.

At the base of the Tree, I grew roots. As the roots reached deep into the earth, I felt heat traveling up my legs. Then, the earth leapt up and embraced me. As the boiling magma surrounded me, I became very warm.

The cool light of the moon mixed with the hot magma to make steam. A fairy mist surrounded and transported me, outside of time and space. I found myself at the Nexus of Life.

Then I anchored at the Axis of the Tree. The fairy mist crystallized as silver dew drops on the tree branches. Like glittering diamonds, the drops became stars. The white-yellow moon reappeared. The red earth was below smiling at me.

I felt that I was a part of the Axis of the World. I was the Tree, the meeting place of the Two Powers – the Earth and Sky. At that moment, I realized that what I do matters. It had impact in ways I would never know. As the intermediary between Earth and Sky, I felt the need to be a moral being.

The moon put out a silver beam for me to travel back home. The earth embraced the beam with a red lava burst. Entwined, they dissolved into the Tree guiding me home. The smell of my tea woke me out of the dream. I drank my tea and felt refreshed.

Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008
animalteachers @ gmail.com

Saging or Smudging

(Sage by Maryann Sterling)

The smudging ceremony is a sacred ritual for Native Americans and for other peoples. It is a ritual of cleaning and purification. Indian People burn tobacco, cedar, sage, and sweetgrass in offerings to the Four Directions. The Journey of Life begins in the East and ends in the North. By offering to the Four Directions, the person opens themselves to guidance and wisdom from the Spirit.

“Smudging” which is the burning of sacred plants is a time honored method for healing. People bath themselves in the smoke of the burning herbs. Sage, one of the sacred plants, drives out the negative energy. Sweetgrass helps brings in the positive energy. Smudging helps to restore the person to spiritual health.

Often, people will burn tobacco or sweetgrass as offerings to the various spirits – plant, stone, animal, and earth. The smoke purifies people, their homes, and sacred things. Smudging is a method of inviting the spirit to come and be with you.

I smudge often my home to make an offering, and to purify the room. I keep the sage in a medicine pouch. When I am ready to burn it, I place the sage in an abalone shell. After getting the fire going, I fan the embers with a feather to spread the smoke. I leave a window cracked open to allow the spirits to leave. I sage the room, starting in the East, moving South, West, North, and East again.

Smudging can be done by anyone. All you need a fireproof bowl and sage. Light the sage and fan the smoking embers. Let the smoke drift over you and feel yourself opening up to the Spirit.

Please do not gather the sage, sweetgrass, tobacco, or cedar yourself. These plants are regulated under various laws, and can be only harvested by selected groups such as Native Americans.

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Resource: “Sacred Sage, How It Heals” by Wendy Whiteman. (Purchase from Amazon.com, along with sage supplies.)

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008