Signs of the Zodiac and Me

In my adventures with the Zodiac, I often compare what is written for Virgo with the personalities of myself, my brother, my girlfriend, and my mother-in-law. With the exception of my mother-in-law, we were all born on the same day (different years). However, all of us were born in the same month.

The short description for Virgo, our sign, fits us in some ways but are wildly off in others. My girlfriend is analytical and conscientious, but is also an artist who paints bright abstracts. While my bother is meticulous and exacting, he is also a successful salesman. My sociable brother enjoys selling road paving services to local governments. Like my brother, I am sociable, and enjoy vending my jewelry at fairs. In my approach to the world at large, I use logic and reason.

Because the three of us were born at the end of Virgo, I looked up the descriptions for Libra, the next sign. Because we are all sociable, we also value harmony in our relations. Perhaps the stars are like the moon, which waxes and wanes in power. Since Libra is rising and Virgo is setting, we are a mix of these signs.

Meanwhile my mother-in-law who was born earlier in the month had the characteristics of Virgo and Leo. Conscientious and meticulous, she was also a drama queen and quite vain, as well. In her case, Leo was setting and Virgo rising. The strong characteristics of Leo carried over to Virgo.

The attributes for Virgo fit us as a group, but not as individuals. My brother approaches life using his gut feelings. Meanwhile, my analytical girlfriend’s home is a mess. I am sloppy in my finances. My meticulous mother-in-law bounded from thing to thing with no forethought.



Descriptions of Selected Signs of the Zodiac

Leo: Dignity, power, vanity. Dramatic, flamboyant, broad-minded, warm.

Virgo: Reason, logic, exactitude. Conscientious, analytical, meticulous.

Libra: Harmony, evaluation, trivialities. Refined, fair, just, sociable.

(Oberon Zell-Ravenheart, Grimore for the Apprentice Wizard, 2004, page 281.)


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Copyright Virginia Carper, 2009, animalteachers @ gmail.com

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GAZELLE: Peaceful Resolution

In watching nature shows, people often see a graceful Gazelle zigzagging across the African Savanna. He is usually being pursued by Cheetah, who eventually tires of the chase. Among the fastest of the Antelopes, Gazelle has been clocked at running fifty miles (eighty kilometers) an hour. Because of his nimbleness, many religions see Gazelle as the Soul fleeing from danger.

Scientists count between ten to eighteen species of Gazelles. (The “Gazelle” group includes several families of antelopes.) They range from the small Dorcas Gazelle of the traditional Gazelle family (Gazella) to the large Grant’s Gazelle of the Nanger family. The most noted of the Gazelles, Thomson’s Gazelle is of the Eudorcas family. What is noted about Gazelles are their beautiful curving horns and their swiftness. In addition, They live in the deserts and grasslands of Africa and Asia.

Acting “cool, calm, and collected”, They save their energy for when They need it. This calmness is demonstrated by how Male Gazelles (Bucks) vie for leadership. Instead of fighting, They show off their horns. The Buck with the longest and curviest horns becomes the leader. Sometimes, They will engage in an “air cushion” fight. Approaching each other, the Buck Gazelles put on a show of fighting until one of Them backs off.

Gazelles show how conflicts can be resolved peacefully. Buck Gazelles save their energy for important things such as protecting their herd. Instead of inflicting injuries, They show fight. Gazelles demonstrate how to fight without hurting others.

Wisdom of Gazelle Includes:
Wise Use of Speed
Keep Your Cool
Respond Quickly to Danger

Science Notes:

Gazella
Mountain Gazelle
Neumann’s Gazelle
Speke’s Gazelle
Dorcas Gazelle
Indian Gazelle
Cuvier’s Gazelle
Rhim Gazelle
Goitered Gazelle

Eudorcas
Thomson’s Gazelle
Red-fronted Gazelle

Nanger
Dama Gazelle
Grant’s Gazelle
Soemmerring’s Gazelle
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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2009

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

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

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Antelope: Uncover What is Hidden

When people picture an antelope, they often imagine a deer-like mammal with beautiful curving horns. The world “antelope” means “bright eyes” which refers to their large limpid eyes. “Antelope” is used to describe any Bovid (cloven-hoofed animal) that is not a bison, buffalo, cow, goat, or sheep.

Always alert, Antelopes react quickly when They suspect a predator lurking nearby. Sometimes when They spy Lion in the tall grass, Antelopes will bounce (pronk) with all their feet leaving the ground and landing at the same time. They are telling Lion, “I see you!”

Because Antelopes sense danger immediately, many Animals at the waterhole rely on Them to alert Everyone Else. According to the Bushmen, Antelopes can see the hidden. They are the only Animals that can find the hiding place of the God that took their form. Antelope tells people to be attuned to what goes on about you. In this way, you will uncover that which is hidden.

Wisdom of Antelope Includes:
Be Alert to Danger
Beauty and Grace Together
Having Keen Senses

Science Note:
Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana), of North America is not an antelope, but is the sole member of an ancient mammal family, which is related to giraffes. While antelopes keep their horns, pronghorns have horns that branch and shed.

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2009

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

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

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Astrology and Me

My relationship with astrology has been a contentious one. As a skeptic, I was repulsed that regular people took their signs so seriously. For me, it seemed to fly in the face of free will and self-determination.

My mother-in-law faithfully read her daily horoscope in the newspaper. In addition, she believed that what was said about Virgos described her completely. Meanwhile, other people around me spoke of “the moon being void (of course)” or that “Mercury is going retrograde”. Therefore, I decided I needed to know astrology.

Many people regard astrology as an old form of human understanding. In studying it, I want to know why people think that their star sign is accurate. What is it about the Zodiac that makes people so sure of themselves? What is the effect of the stars and planets on human behavior?

I think that I have become too stultified in my thinking. From time to time, I need to be tipped upside down to see the world differently. I need to step out of the world of logic and science, and see the world with new eyes. Astrology is a fine way to rediscover the world in all of its wonder. The stars are keeping their secrets for me to find out.

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Copyright Virginia Carper, 2009, animalteachers @ gmail.com

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Tapir: Being Elusive

Tapirs are small hoofed Mammals with long rubbery noses. An ancient Malay myth says that Tapirs were made from odds and ends of other Animals. Plum and short-legged, They look like large Pigs but They are not relatives of Swine. These shy forest inhabitants are relatives of Horse and Rhinoceros. The name “tapir” comes from a Brazilian Indian word meaning “thick”, referring to their tough hides. In addition, Brazilians claim that the stones from tapirs’ stomachs have medicinal powers.

Tapirs like to bathe, and will walk under water. Excellent swimmers, They use their snouts to sniff out food and bring plants to their mouths for eating. Because their trunks are so flexible, They can explore inside a circle without moving their heads. To get to the water, Tapirs will slide down steep hillsides in dense forests. They also wear down paths on the riverbanks above their water holes.

These Mammals have remained unchanged for over 35 million years. Built like small tanks, Tapirs out maneuver most anything in their path. Crashing through the jungles, They bulldoze tunnels, in the dense underground, to their eating areas. Strong and agile runners, Tapirs can easily evade Dogs and other predators, by climbing hills and fences.

Not very well-known to people, Tapirs remain a mystery. When these shy Mammals smell other animals in the area, They quickly disappear. Today, people who study Tapirs are still learning new things abut these ancient mammals.

Some Malay hunters believe that Tapirs have special powers to become elusive. Although, They are ancient, many people know little about Tapirs. They want it that way to evade danger. Learn the lessons of being elusive from Tapirs.

Wisdom from Tapir Family Includes:
Be Sensitive to Unseen Things
Listen to Subtle Messages
Be Balanced in Life

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2009

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

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

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Raccoon (2 of 2)

Many Native Americans held a deep regard for Raccoon since She also was connected to magic. The Aztecs call Female Raccoon, see-oh-at la-ma kas-kay (Cioatlamacasque), “She who talks with the Gods”. If She had cubs, they called her, ee-yah-mah-tohn, “the little old one who knows things”. Because Raccoons handle everything, the Aztecs referred to Male Raccoon as mapachitli, “One who takes everything in his hands“.

Raccoon aptly displays how curiosity can enhance your life. She is always picking things up to examine them. Because of her curiosity, Raccoon builds up her problem solving skills. By being curious, She seizes opportunities and becomes more successful at what She does.

Teachings of Raccoon Include:

“If you get lost in the woods or out in Nature, just ask the Raccoon to help. He likes helping people.” Copyright: “Spirits of the Earth”, Bobby Lake-Thom.

“A superior teacher, Raccoon counsels us to gain experience, to cherish curiosity, and investigate to gain knowledge as well as information.” Copyright: “Wolf Song”, Jeanette Spencer and Lew Hartman.

Wisdom of Raccoon Includes:
Embrace Magic in Your Life
Wise Use of Intelligence
Having a Sense of Touch

Science Note:
1. Raccoons are one of four major animals in the wild that carry rabies. (bat, fox, and skunk are the others.)
2. Because Raccoons host the roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis), do not handle them or their droppings without washing your hands afterwards.

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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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Raccoon: Be Curious (1 of 2)

With her striped tail and black mask, Raccoon is well known to many people. Curious and clever, She tips over people’s garbage cans looking for food, usually leaving a mess. Because She can thrive where people live, Raccoon is a synathrope, an animal that can live off people.

Denning in trees, Raccoon is at home in the forests. She feeds along the waterways, hunting as She swims. What people think is Raccoon washing her food is actually a form of hunting. All She needs is water to help Her find her food by touch.

Known for her resourcefulness, Raccoon is a good problem solver. Because of her good memory, She can open complex latches without much practice. Scientists believe that Raccoon can come up with innovative ideas when faced with a conundrum. Called arakumen, by the Algonquin Indians, Raccoon, “the little hand scratcher”, picks up things in her hands to examine them by feeling.

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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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Raccoon Family: Care for the Trees

“Raccoon” comes from an Algonquin Indian (Roanoke) word (arakumen) meaning, “he who scratches with his hands”. This aptly describes the whole Family, which use their forepaws the way a person uses their hands. Living mainly in forests, members of the Raccoon Family have also long tails for gripping tree limbs.

The most notable members of the Raccoon Family are Coatis, Raccoons, and Ringtails. Coatis are the most social of this Family. Depending on their moods, Coatis snort, grunt, or scream at their friends. The name “Coati” comes from the Tupian Indian words for cua (belt) and tim (nose) because Coatis sleep with their noses tucked into their stomachs.

Raccoons are known for their ability to solve difficult problems. Because of this, They have thrived among humans. Unfortunately for people, Raccoons are also carriers of rabies.

Ringtails have a ringed bushy tail as long as their bodies, hence their name. Gold miners once used Ringtails to hunt for Rats in the mines. Called the “Miner’s Cat”, They are better mousers than most Cats.

Other members of this Family are Olingoes and Kinkajous. Olingoes, which are easily confused with Kinkajous, seldom leave their tree homes. They also have softer fur. Unfortunately for Olingoes, their tropical evergreen forests are being chopped down at alarming rates.

The larger Kinkajous use their tails as an extra hand. Often seen at night, Kinkajous will feed at the same tree as Olingoes and Opossums. Unlike other members of the Raccoon Family, They have a scent gland on their chest rather than on their rumps.

Living in forests, members of the Raccoon Family den in trees and raise their Young there. When threatened, They readily climb trees. In return, They take care of the forest. Living off of nuts, berries, and fruits from the trees, members of the Raccoon Family disperse these seeds to encourage the forests to grow. Care for the trees as They do.

Wisdom of the Raccoon Family
Being Flexible
Having a Good Grip on Things
Being a Forest Walker

Science Notes:
1. Red Pandas (Ailurus fulgens) of China have recently been included in this family. (Giant Pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) are grouped with bears.)
2. Tanuki (Raccoon Dog) (Nyctereutes procyonoides) of Asia is a candid with similar behaviors to Raccoons (Procyonidae).

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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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Barn Swallow: Bringer of Hope

Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)
“The swallow knows its joy, and follows it absolutely, although it takes enormous effort to get where it has to be, the swallow presses on regardless. It knows that the journey’s end will be worth it.” - “Swallow”, “Bird Cards”

Although most people do not consider barn swallows to be a backyard bird, they have been a part of people’s lives for a long time. Many swallows build nests in buildings, under bridges, and on top of porch lights. For example, a flock of barn swallows return to my garden condo every April to rebuild their nests. They prefer living on the top of the porch lights in the four bottom condos. Coming first, the males repair the cup-like nests, adding soft grasses. When their mates arrive, the pairs finish daubing mud on the nest. Afterwards, they begin their family. By May, I can hear their chicks peeping for food.

The swallows prefer hunting insects in the parking lot in front of my condo. They also like to search for food in the field opposite the lot. Flitting about, they dart and dip, eating on the wing. After capturing several insects, the swallows take them back to feed their young. Later, in June, the young will fledge.

Then the barn swallows begin another new family. They lay between three to eight eggs. After about three weeks, the new clutch hatches. I often see the fledglings perch on the common door’s lintel a month later. Usually, the parents are around coaxing them to fly. Come September, the barn swallows leave for South America.

One year, we had a swallow tragedy. A black rat snake took up residence in one of the front porches, in the rafters. While he ate the young, the parents dive bombed the snake. Finally, they abandoned the nest for another location.

Because their range encompasses Eurasia and North America, and migration routes to Africa, Asia, and South America, barn swallows are well known to people. Among sailors, swallows meant safe return. (Many of them had tattoos of swallows.) The Egyptians, Babylonians, Greeks, and Romans associated swallows with the souls of the dead. Meanwhile, Moslems believe that barn swallows made annual pilgrimages to Mecca.

When barn swallows return back to their homes in the spring, they brought hope and renewal. Christians viewed swallows to be symbolic of Christ’s resurrection from the dead. According to various traditions, the swallows gathered at his tomb on Good Friday. Then on Easter Morning, they flew calling out to the people that Christ has risen from the dead.


Sources:

Nozedar, Adele, “The Secret Language of Birds”, Harper Collins, London, 2006

Toerien, Jane, “Bird Cards”, Gottmr Publishing Group BV, Haarlen, the Netherlands

_______, “Book of North American Birds”, The Readers’ Digest, Pleasantville, NY, 1990.

_______, “The Sibley Guide to Bird Life and Behavior”, Sibley, David Allen, ed, Alfred A Knopf, New York, 2001.

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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

Goat Family (3)

Because Goats have rectangular pupils in their eyes, They reminded many Christians of the Devil. Also because They were associated with Pagan fertility Gods, Male Goats (Bucks) became Christian symbols for lust. According to Christians, in the Final Days, Christ will come to separate the Sheep from the Goats. The Sheep will go with Him, while the Goats remain behind to perish.

However, many Christians held a different view of Does (Female Goats). These Goats represent the Seekers of God. As She climbs higher, Doe Goat could see farther and clearer. She would continue up the mountain until She spied God.

Goats offer a solid foundation in becoming more confident. As They climb higher, Goats become more surefooted, thereby gaining more self-assurance. They teach that with practice comes more solid achievement, which leads to more self-confidence.

Wisdom of the Goat Family Includes:
Going To New Heights
Play and Exploration
Thriving in Adverse Conditions

Science Notes:
1. Members of the Goat Family (Capra): Ibex, Markhor, and Wild Goat. (Domestic Goat is a subspecies of Wild Goat.) Mountain Goat of North America (Oreamnos americanus) is a goat-antelope, not a goat.

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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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Goat Family (2)

(Photo from freefoto.com)

With their Herd Queen leading Them, the Goat Flock climbs hills in search of tasty shrubs. As the Queen directs Them, the Flock guard their browsing territory from predators and other Flocks. As the oldest female, the Queen grooms her Heir, who in turn protects Her. The Flock relies on these two Goats for their survival.

Because of their ability to thrive anywhere, Goats have come to symbolize fertility and abundance. Among the Norse, two Goats pulled the chariot of their God of Thunder (and Fertility), Thor. Still, another Goat supplied mead to the heroes of Valhalla. Meanwhile, in Wales, Black Goats, friend of the fairies, guarded treasures.

Some Near Eastern peoples thought of Goats as redeemers of their people’s sins. To absorb its diseases and bad luck, a village would keep a Goat. Then, they would send this Goat, called a “Scapegoat“, away carrying the bad luck of the village with it.

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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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Goat Family: Be More Confident (1 of 3)

Called the “poor man’s cows”, Goats were domesticated over 10,000 years ago in the Near East and Iran. Since then, They have provided many people with meat, milk, hides, and other necessities for life. Masters at survival, Goats are easy to raise in dry, rocky areas. Small and hardy, They can live where cattle are unable to. Because of this, Goats are popular worldwide as livestock.

Curious and intelligent, Goats quickly explore new things. With their upper lip and tongue, They taste and touch things They encounter. Contrary to popular belief, They do not eat cans. Fussy about what they eat, Goats browse for prized berries, nuts, and roots. Using their tough pad on their upper lip and strong lower jaw, Goats grab and chew bark from trees.

Since They love to climb, Goats will stand on their hind legs to strip the bark off trees. Also, Domestic Goats will test their enclosure fences as well. In their King of the Mountain Game, They climb up and playfully butt Each Other off the top of the hill.


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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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Color and Birds

In nature, birds use color in many ways. Color helps to identify the bird and its gender. For example, the males are generally more colorful, while females are drabber. Cardinals of North America have red beaks, but only the male cardinal is all red. If a male cardinal sees another cardinal, he will know what gender the other bird is. A male he chases away; a female he courts. 

In addition, birds use color for camouflage. Mother Pheasant looks like the brush she nests in. Meanwhile, penguins, in their black and white colors, blend into the ocean. When a fish looks up, they see the sea but not the penguin.

Birds also use color to identify each other. Canada geese have black and white neck stripes that are as individual as people’s fingerprints. One goose can tell whether the other geese are a part of their flock. They keep their flock together in this way.

Sources:
_______, “Book of North American Birds”, The Readers’ Digest, Pleasantville, NY, 1990.
_______, “The Sibley Guide to Bird Life and Behavior”, Sibley, David Allen, ed, Alfred A Knopf, New York, 2001.

Ehrlich, Paul, David S. Dobkin, and Darryl Wheye, “Color of Birds”, 1988, 23 Dec. 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

Animals For Everyone: Penguins

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Reindeer: Travel

CARIBOU ! REINDEER: Travel

Of all the members of the Deer Family, Caribou shows the greatest adaptation to life in the Arctic. To carry Him over deep snow, Caribou has the widest feet of any Deer. With his Herd, Caribou migrates long distances during each season. He goes to windy plains in the summer to escape the Flies. In the winter, his Herd goes to the tundra. There, Mother Caribou gives birth with little threat from Wolves.

In Lapland and Russia, people domesticated Caribou to provide transportation, food, and clothing. First herded by people over 3000 years ago, Reindeer (domesticated Caribou) is the most northern of Domestic Animals. As beasts of burden and providers of milk, Reindeer remains a pivotal element in the culture of the Sami (Lapps of Finland).

Gregarious, Caribou joins with thousands of other Caribou to wander long distances. His Herd moves quickly to summer and winter grounds. Each time, They follow the same pathways, wearing grooves in the landscape. Using traditional routes, Caribou ford and swim great rivers.

Caribou encourages travel. He shows that being a nomad can be a good thing. Methodical in his travels, Caribou moves from favorite place to another, never overstaying his welcome.

Caribou! Reindeer’s Teachings Also Include:

“Caribou take care of their feet because they are walking people. The Creator’s message to caribou is that it is to be main source of Dene (Dogrib). Meat must be shared because Caribou is a spiritual gift that must not be used for personal gain.” Copyright: Dene Kede Education: A Dene Perspective.

Caribou ! Reindeer’s Wisdom Includes:
Being a Wandering Soul
Creating Pathway Through the Wilderness
Learning Social Skills
Going Where You Want To
Living A Traditional Life


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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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Treeshrews: Living In Fragments

(From America's Zoo)

TREE SHREW FAMILY (SCANDENTIA): Living a Fragmented Life

With their long, bushy tails and black button noses, Tree Shrews resemble Squirrels. However, They are neither Squirrels nor Shrews. As the subject of intense scientific controversy, Tree Shrews were thought first to be Insectivores, and then early Primates. Finally zoologists placed them in their own order: Scandentia.

Extremely active, Tree Shrews forage all day, resting every hour for a few minutes. In their forests in Southeast Asia, these nervous and inquisitive Animals bounce around like pinballs from branch to branch. Tree Shrews live hard and fast lives. As Louise Simmons who studies them says, “They work 12 hours a day, 365 days a year. They live on the edge.”

Not much is known about these fast-moving, elusive Animals. However, scientists have discovered that Tree Shrews care for their Babies in an odd way. Every two days, Mother Tree Shrew returns to her nest to feed her Babies for about two minutes. Then She leaves only to return in another two days. While alone in the nest, her Babies nuzzle next to Each Other to keep warm.

Scientists recently discovered that Pen-tailed Tree Shrews drink the equivalent of ten glasses of wine a night. Living in the rain forests of Malaysia, these Animals suck on the fermented nectar of the Bertram palm nightly. But, They get never drunk or become inebriated.

For people who live a ‘pinball’ life, let Tree Shrews be your guide. They parent their Babies and defend their territories, all at the same time. Plus, They never get drunk, while doing it. Let Tree Shrews show you how to live your fragmented life effectively.

Wisdom From Tree Shrews Include:
Living Hard and Fast
Becoming Self-reliant
Keeping Your Head and Not Panicking

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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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Ivory-billed Woodpecker: Elusive Hope

Ivory-billed Woodpecker (Campephilus principalis)

In 2004, news broke that the nearly extinct Ivory-billed Woodpecker was sighted by a kayaker in the Cache River National Wildlife Refuge of Arkansas. As this electrifying news spread, everyone wanted to go there to see the “Lord God Bird”. But, after a few tantalizing glimpses, the Ivory-billed Woodpecker became elusive again. Meanwhile, naturalists began sighting this bird in the panhandle of Florida and in South Carolina. Frustrating to scientists was that no clear photos or nests were ever presented by anyone.

Once plentiful in the Southeastern U.S., Mexico, and Cuba, Ivory-billed Woodpecker gradually disappeared as the old growth Cypress trees were cut down. By the 1940s, many naturalists regarded this bird extinct. However people still reported hearing its loud drumming, and continued to find various feathers of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker. Moreover, many field guides still featured this bird.

Then, in 1986, a group of naturalists searched the jungles of Cuba for Ivory-billed Woodpecker. One of the expert birders, a friend of mine, told me that the rugged terrain hampered their search for this elusive bird. However, his fellow naturalists did glimpse the bird, and he also heard its drumming.

Searching for Ivory-billed Woodpeckers is problematic because of the remoteness of the regions that he can be seen in. The Cache River Refuge covers a huge area, which is aomost impassible. Also, the areas in Florida and South Caroline are swampy, with few clear passageways.

Since scientists need proof such a nest, a dead bird, or a clear photo, they cannot declare the Ivory-billed Woodpecker found. Like UFOs, about ninety-five of the sightings can be explained by something else - usually a Pileated Woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus), leaving only five percent unexplainable. In cryptozoology (the study of hidden animals), stories of the imagination need to catch up with the pragmatism of scientists before they can be declared real. Such is the case of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker – many stories but scant proof.

To me, the Ivory-billed Woodpecker is real. Too many people tell of their glimpses of this bird. Also, no one really wants to declare the bird extinct. Instead of being lost to us, many people hold out hope that the Ivory-billed Woodpecker can still be found.

But, Too many variables exist to pin down this bird. Perhaps, Ivory-billed Woodpecker only exists in our imaginations. Our dearest wishes and desires holds the bird to our reality. Since we have not given up on the Lord God Bird, we work to restore it to its former glory. Meanwhile, Ivory-billed Woodpecker has not given up on us. Somewhere in the swamps, an Ivory-bill Woodpecker drums loudly and waits for a friendly human again.

Sources:
Conversations with Donald B. Adams, 30 Sept., 2008.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, U.S. Department of Interior, “Ivory-bill Woodpecker”, 28 Nov. 2008

NOVA: scienceNOW, “Ivory-billed Woodpecker”, 28 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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Eastern Grey Kangaroo: Effective Communication

EASTERN GREY KANGAROO: Effective Communication

More abundant than Her Close Relative, Red Kangaroo, Eastern Grey Kangaroo lives in the forests of Australia. Unlike other Kangaroos, She breeds only in the spring and early summer, instead of breeding continuously. However, this has not affected her numbers and, in fact She is a nuisance in some areas.

Often seen with Magpie Lark and Willie Wagtail in her ears or on her back, Eastern Grey Kangaroo rests in the heat of the day. As the Birds pick out Parasites and Insects off of her, She grazes in the cool of the early morning. Eating as She walks on all fours, Eastern Grey Kangaroo uses her large tail for support.

Socially inclined, Eastern Grey Kangaroo holds conversations with her Friends by clucking. Talking with her Joey (Baby), She squeals and clucks. However, when She is alarmed at something, Eastern Grey Kangaroo stamps her feet, and coughs loudly.

Lulu, an Eastern Grey Kangaroo, saved a farmer’s life. Knocked unconscious by a falling tree limb, Mr. Richards lay dying. Lulu tipped him on his side to keep him from choking. Then She hopped to the family’s home. Banging on the door and barking, Lulu alerted the family. Because of Her quick action, Lulu was awarded the National Animal Valor Award.

Eastern Grey Kangaroo demonstrates effective communications. She tells her Mob of impending danger by stomping her feet, and calls to her Joey by coughing. Lulu banged on her friend’s family door to save him. Communication is more than words, it is also actions.

Teachings of the Eastern Grey Kangaroo Include:“So long as the Grey Kangaroo was there, the people knew they would never know hunger or suffering. Its mere existence promised true abundance.” Copyright: “Animal Dreaming”, Scott Alexander King.

Wisdom of the Eastern Grey Kangaroo Includes:
At Peace with One’s Self
Making a Place of Calmness
Ensuring Abundance

Science Note:
1. Western Grey Kangaroo (Macropus fuliginosus) is a different species of Kangaroo from Eastern Grey (Macropus giganteus). They are not regional variations of the same species.

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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

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

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Lessons of the Kangaroo Family: Be Fearless (2 of 2)

The Aboriginal Peoples of Australia named Kangaroos by color, size, sex, and habits. The English word “Kangaroo” is the corrupted form of the Guugu Yimidhirr word “gangurru” for Eastern Grey Kangaroo. Meanwhile, “Pademelon“, the name for a small shy kangaroo living in the wet forests, came from the Dharuk word “badimaliyan”. Important to these peoples, Kangaroos feature widely in their sacred art, and are totems for some of their Tribes.

Among Australians, Kangaroos are both treasured and despised. One of the living symbols of Australia, Red Kangaroo is on the Australian Coat of Arms. Meanwhile, an Eastern Grey Kangaroo was awarded the RSPCA National Animal Valor Award for saving a farmer’s life.

However, many ranchers regard Kangaroos as pests because They eat scare resources meant for Cattle and Sheep. Many roads have Kangaroo-crossing signs to warn motorists. In addition, many cars have ‘roo bars’ to minimize any damage caused by a collision.

Not afraid of danger, Members of the Kangaroo Family hop everywhere over the Australian countryside. Tree-kangaroos leap across the rainforest canopies, while Rock-wallabies ascend up rock faces. Be fearless as Kangaroos are, but watch where you leap or you may get hit by an on-coming car.

Wisdom of the Kangaroo Family:
Leaping Over Obstacles
Let Your Instincts to Guide You
How to Conserve Energy

Kangaroo Family: Macropodidae
Subfamily: Sthenurinae Banded Hare-wallaby
Subfamily: Macropodinae
Dorcopsis
Dorcopsulus
Hare-wallaby
Wallaby and Kangaroo
Nail-tail Wallaby
Rock-wallaby
Quokka
Pademelon
Swamp Wallaby

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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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Lessons from the Kangaroo Family: Be Fearless (1 of 2)

KANGAROO FAMILY: Be Fearless

When people think “Kangaroo”, they often imagine a large deer-like Mammal hopping around like a Frog on two legs. Of course, the Kangaroo must have a large pouch with a Joey (Baby) sticking out. Rounding out this picture would be two Kangaroos off boxing each other.

Also, in the popular imagination, Kangaroos live only in Australia. On the contrary, They also live in New Guinea. Transported to New Zealand in the 1870s by Sir George Grey, Swamp and Parma Wallabies flourish on Kawau Island. Escaping from a British zoo, a group of Wallabies now have small established territories in Scotland and England.

This large and varied Family of Marsupials ranges from the large Great Kangaroos to the small Rat-kangaroos. The scientific name for Kangaroo, Macropodidae, is from Greek for “long foot.” With their muscular tails for balance, They hop with these long powerful hind feet.

The stereotypical Kangaroos are the Great Kangaroos -- Greys, Reds, and Wallaroos. The largest of all Marsupials, Great Kangaroos can travel distances without expending much energy. Using the strong tendons in their hind legs, They effortlessly bound across the Australian countryside.

Besides balancing and resting, Kangaroos use their tails in other ways. Rat-kangaroo (Potoroos and Bettongs) use their tails to gather nesting materials. Meanwhile Nail-tail Wallabies have a horny spur hidden in the hair at the tip of their tails. Among the Forest Wallabies of New Guinea, Dorcopsis only touches the tip of his tail on the ground while resting to keep it out of reach of Leeches, unlike Pademelon, whose tail becomes leech infested from lying on the swampy ground.

The most specialized of Kangaroos are Rock-wallabies and Tree-kangaroos. Rock-wallabies can leap up sheer rock faces, and then jump from ledge to ledge. Using their tails for balance and their short toenails for gripping, Rock-wallabies hop up tall rock cliffs.

Meanwhile, Tree-kangaroos live in the rain forests. Although They have the large hind legs of “regular” Kangaroos, Tree-kangaroos also have very long tails for balance, and strong forearms for holding onto branches. Bold and agile, They leap from a high tree to the ground or to another tree further away.

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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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Reiki and Animals

In addition to our physical bodies, we have energy bodies. Sometimes negative energy from elsewhere will enter these bodies. When this happens, we feel out of sorts and blah. Just as we feel low, so do our dear animals. Since they too have energy bodies, our pets also experience this negative energy.

As a form of living spiritual energy, Reiki can clear out this negative energy. Not only that, this intelligent, warm energy will rejuvenate and realign your energy centers. Many people report that a Reiki treatment is like having a warm hug from someone you love.

Imagine giving a warm emotional hug to your dear pet. Since both of your energies are connected in a wholesome way, Reiki deepens the bond between you and your pet. You and your animal friend will become active partners in both of your healings.

What happens during a treatment? First, distance Reiki is sent to your animal friend. Many animals need to become acquainted with this energy. Once your pet has evaluated the energy, they will decide what to do next. Your dear animal will guide me in the areas they need the most healing. As an animal becomes more accustomed to regular Reiki treatments, they will relax.

For healthy animals, Reiki will enhance their emotional and physical well-being. For ill animals, Reiki attends to their healing at deep levels. By receiving Reiki treatments, your pet will experience fewer fears and anxieties.

Reiki is a safe complement to standard medical treatment. In addition, this holistic treatment is a highly effective method, providing gentle comfort to your dear animal. Moreover, Reiki helps to reduce the side effects of other conventional treatments.
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Copyright: Virginia Carper, 2008

Animalteachers @ gmail.com

To help you and your pet, I offer friendly and compassionate readings. In my readings, you will find out what is on your animal’s mind. After the reading, you will foster a deeper bond between you and your special animal.