WCoyote Outdoors

The NEW LEUPOLD RCX Trail Camera System

2011-08-19T16:44:00.000-05:00

Now avaiable from WCoyote Oudoors - The new RCX Trail Camera System, with exclusive RCX Controller, could not be easier to use. No more guessing on alignment, counting blinking lights or scrolling through confusing mode options. The integrated RCX Trail Camera System is ready out of the box or customize it to your needs. You are in control.

RCX

The "hub" of the RCX Trail Camera System is the exclusive handheld RCX Controller, which plugs into the USB jack in each camera to give you complete control of your system.

Get real- time alignment of the camera's view, instant access to all program settings, and all of the images that have been captured. Download high-resolution photos (color or infrared) and video right in the field, without making multiple trips to and from your home or truck to check SD cards.

Exclusive RCX Controller

Get real- time alignment of the camera's view, instant access to all program settings, and all of the images that have been captured. Download high-resolution photos (color or infrared) and video right
in the field, without making multiple trips to and from your home or truck to check SD cards.

A TFT-LCD (thin film transistor liquid crystal display) active matrix 3" display gives you the complete picture right in the palm of your hand. Quickly scan, zoom, delete or transfer your photos and video, make adjustments as needed to the camera's setting and position, and move on to the next camera. Then plug the RCX Controller into your home computer to download your pictures and videos to your hard drive.

Standard SDHC Compatible

The RCX can use up to a 32GB SDHC card, setting a new standard for SD camera systems.

Dual Sensor Technology and a Wider Field of View
(RCX-2 ONLY)

RCX-2 offers Dual Sensor Technology (DST) to deliver a more complete picture of game activity in your area. Choose the wide cone for 45 degrees of “sensing coverage” to a range of 45 feet... ideal for larger areas or to cover the corner of a field. Select the narrower 10 degree cone that reaches out to 90 feet...for use with a specific landmark or feeder. The DST sensors automatically trigger the camera’s shutter when moving game (heat) is detected within the selected cone’s coverage.Or you can choose to have both sensors active at the same time to activate the full force of the DST sensor zone at nearly 1400 square feet of sensor zone coverage.

The Leupold RCX is the only trail camera to offer this ground-breaking technology. A wide 54’ field of view camera lens means you’ll not only see the animals within the 10/45 degree cone’s ”sensing coverage,” but you will see any animals on the fringes (where the big bucks often hang).

Note: The RCX-1 offers single 45 ̊sensing coverage to 45 feet.

Silent Digital Shutter

The RCX Trail Camera System captures images with no moving parts. The XD™ processor silently captures the image from the CMOS sensor as soon as the PIR sensor is activated. The Infrared Filter activates at night, and then deactivates in the morning, providing instant spectral adaptation to protect the highly sensitive sensor from infrared rays during the day. It then responds in spectacular detail at night when the filter moves away from the camera lens. Moving the filter just twice a day conserves battery life and minimizes noise that can alert game to the presence of the camera. Compare this to other camera systems that produce an audible, often game-spooking “clicking” noise each time a picture is taken.

Customize to Your Needs

Even though the RCX Trail Camera System is so simple to use, it also offers more customizable features than any other camera in the field. You have multiple options for file type/ size, picture quality, sensitivity (auto or four levels – low to super high), time lapse, temperature, barometer readings (RCX-2), multi-picture mode, event delay, operation hours, video quality/length, separate day/night settings, camera name, and sensor angle (10 or 45 degrees or DST for both – RCX-2). Both cameras also offer custom picture stamp with date, time, temperature, and moon.

From out-of-the-box “ready to go” to highly custom capturing of game activity, the choice is yours.

Vibrant Images with XD™ (Xtreme Definition) Image Quality

The RCX delivers both high-resolution color (day) and infrared (night) still images, as well as a video/audio option to capture game activity in your area (audio on RCX-2 only). The advanced system uses CMOS sensor technology similar to that found in higher-end camcorders to produce tremendously sharp, crisp images.

RCX-1: 8 megapixel images | RCX-2: 10 megapixel images

For exceptionally clear images at night, the PIR LEDs combines with XD image processing and advanced auto-exposure calculations.

RCX-1: 36 PIR LEDs | RCX-2: 48 PIR LEDs

A special day/night sensor allows the camera to quickly adjust exposure as light levels change and to activate the infrared (IR) system at night.

“Blink-of-an-eye” Trigger Speed

The RCX offers a lightning fast, less than one second trigger speed. This “blink-of-an-eye” speed, combined with Dual Sensor Technology (DST™) and a wide angle 54-degree camera lens, means you’ll capture more images of full bodies and racks rather than ears and rears. This quick trigger speed while in “Most Picture Mode” will capture more pictures than other cameras on the market.

Rugged Durability

The RCX camera frame is constructed of a durable, high-impact ABS/polycarbonate blend shell for maximum strength and protection for the internal elements. Tested to a rigorous accelerated weather and UV exposure test, the RCX will deliver the dependable, reliable performance you need to locate and pattern your trophy animal, season after season.

Instant Recovery

Many trail cameras take up to 15 seconds to recover and be ready to take another picture. After the recording of an image file, the camera is immediately ready to capture another image. When settings are applied that minimize the time to record, such as minimizing picture stamps, images are captured at intervals of less than 2 seconds.

Safe and Secure
(RCX-2 ONLY)

A specially designed Lock-Down Security Plate (included with the RCX-2) provides for rock-solid mounting as well as protection from theft or vandalism. A heavy-gauge Master Lock Python® cable (not included) or nylon strap (included) attaches through the mounting plate and around the tree. A single nail-mounting slot is also built into the top of the security plate.

The Lock-Down Security plate can be purchased aftermarket for the RCX-1 camera.

Extra Long Battery Life

The RCX cameras will operate continuously for months using eight AA Lithium batteries. The battery cartridge tray can be pre-loaded and quickly installed into the camera in the field. The camera units also offer 12-volt external battery capabilities. Optional rechargeable battery kit also available. The RCX Controller utilizes a Lithium-Ion battery (included). The RCX-2 also allows deactivation of 12 LEDs to maximize battery life.

Check this great new product out at WCoyote Outdoors

Specifications

Camera	RCX-1	RCX-2
Megapixels	8	10
Camera Lens Angle	54	54
PIR	45	Dual PIR 10/45
Maximum Trigger Range	45 feet	45ft/90ft depending on setting
Infrared LEDs	36	48 at 10 setting/36 at 45 setting (48 in dual)
Video/Audio	Video	Video/Audio
Trigger Speed	Less than 1 Second	Less than 1 Second
Lock-Down Security Plate	Available As Accessory	Included

Led Lenser Light Sale!

2011-05-02T22:24:00.002-05:00

Led Lenser light close out. Great lights poor North American distributor. 35% off get one while they last: http://tinyurl.com/6ggxa37

Bruise the Clay Not Your Arm

2011-04-21T16:38:00.000-05:00

Bruise the Clay Not Your Arm

Gil Ash of OSP Shooting Schools explains why many shooters wrongly assume a bruised bicep is a gun fit problem when it is actually a gun mount problem. If you are getting a bruised bicep when you are shooting watch this short tip and learn how to avoid the pain.

Nothing stands up to the power of the Storm!

2011-04-20T10:31:00.000-05:00

Pelican Storm Cases Now Available from WCoyote Outdoors!

You’ve got equipment to protect, and a Pelican Storm Case is the best way to do it. A Pelican Storm Case provides the safest transportable environment for sensitive, expensive or vital equipment.

It’s all about the resin: their proprietary HPX® polymer is proven to resist impacts even in low-temperature laboratory testing.

· Tough, Rugged and Lightweight

· Airtight, Watertight, Impervious to Mother Nature

· Dent-resistant, Shatter-resistant, Virtually Unbreakable

· Guaranteed for Life

· Safe and Secure

Vortex valve changes environment automatically.

Nothing stands up to the power of the Storm! Check them out: WCoyote Outdoors

REDFIELD REVOLUTION Riflescopes

2011-04-18T13:41:00.000-05:00

A NO-NONSENSE SCOPES FOR NO-NONSENSE HUNTERS
Revolution™ has everything you need, and nothing you don't.

AMERICAN CRAFSTMANSHIP

BUILT IN OREGON, HUNTED ACROSS THE COUNTRY
Redfield has been building scopes for a long time. And they are going to keep building them, right in Oregon. Buy with confidence; knowing your Revolution was made with pride.

Now available from WCoyote Outdoors check them out: WCoyote Outdoors

WHAT'S IN YOUR TURKEY VEST?

2011-04-15T22:49:00.003-05:00

Gear for a Good Hunt

Veteran turkey hunter and author of "Secrets of the Turkey Pros," Glenn Sapir of the National Shooting Sports Foundation reveals the gear he relies on to make a hunt successful and comfortable--and it all fits in the many pockets of his turkey-hunting vest. After watching the video, consider what you carry and compare your choices with Glenn's.

2011-04-15T18:01:00.000-05:00

New rangefinders finally available! Leupold RX-1000i TBR w/DNA Rangefinder 112179 Black/Gray. Check it out: WCoyote Outdoors

Tri-Tronics Sport Junior honored by the North American Hunting Club

2011-04-05T22:36:00.001-05:00

Tri Tronics Sports Junior

Tri Tronics-Tucson, AZ - After earning a 95% approval rating through extensive field testing by club members, the North American Hunting Club has awarded the Tri-Tronics Sport Junior G3 its coveted Seal of Approval.

"The overall performance of this collar is outstanding, and I highly recommend it. The system keeps my dogs in line when they get over-excited during hunting and keeps them in check so the hunt can last longer, "commented one field tester.

Another field tester added, "My wife loves this thing. She said that we should’ve bought this thing a long time ago for the other dogs."
The Sport® Junior is well-suited for novice trainers, hunters, and professionals. The rugged, compact design features 7 levels of both momentary and continuous stimulation. The remotely-activated collar light is the perfect safety feature for keeping track of your dog in low light conditions. The compact waterproof receiver and collar strap fits dogs of all sizes.

Many of the field testers praised the Sport Junior’s compact design, low cost ($169), instructional DVD and the remotely activated collar light. According to one field tester, "I could see my dog’s location well over 100 yards away in an open field."

"The North American Hunting Club is a much respected organization in the outdoor industry and has long served as a consumer advocate for hunters", stated Gary Williams. "We are thrilled that they have awarded us with their Seal of Approval."

Check it out here: WCoyote Outdoors

Introduction to Range Safety and Etiquette

2011-03-25T22:25:00.001-05:00

WHAT'S YOUR INDOOR RANGE SAFETY IQ?
Watch the Video, Develop Confidence, Introduce a Friend

For new and inexperienced shooters, going to an indoor shooting range can be intimidating. That's why NSSF developed a new range safety video covering gun safety, eye and ear protection, the role of the range officer, making your handgun safe, cease fires and range courtesy. Experienced shooters can benefit from watching, too, and use the video to introduce a friend to the rules of the road at the shooting range.

"The Great Ourdoors is your Passion, Making it More Enjoyable is Ours"

New VX-R™ Illuminated Riflescopes In Leupold's® 2011 Optics Line

2011-02-08T09:43:00.000-06:00

(The Outdoorwire.com)-BEAVERTON, Ore. - Leupold's® new VX-R™ illuminated riflescopes combine proprietary powered fiber optic technology and an exclusive FireDot™ reticle to provide hunters with exceptional target acquisition, in the bright light of day as well as the low light of dawn or dusk. VX-R riflescopes feature a single push button illumination system with Leupold's own Motion Sensor Technology (MST™). A touch of the button illuminates the dot within the reticle. By repeatedly pressing the button, the user can select between eight different intensity settings including a high-low indicator, which flashes when either the maximum or minimum intensity is reached. After five minutes of inactivity, the illumination system automatically switches to stand-by mode, but reactivates at the same intensity setting whenever the rifle is moved. This helps extend battery life and, by reducing movement, allows the hunter to maintain greater stealth in the field.
In addition, the FireDot reticle in the VX-R has a fiber optic light pipe with a precisely cut and meticulously polished tip designed to deliver an illuminated dot that can be easily seen in bright light, yet is not overpowering in low-light conditions. Once activated, the dot illuminates with bright, sharp definition, while the rest of the reticle remains non-illuminated. This combination leads the eye naturally to the center aiming point and makes target acquisition quick, precise and simple.

"Riflescopes with illuminated reticles are legal for use in all states that allow centerfire rifles for big game hunting," commented Pat Mundy, communications manager for Leupold & Stevens, Inc. "Our new VX-R illuminated riflescopes allow hunters around the country to see their game in a better way. VX-R offers true daylight-capable illumination as well as the optical performance required to extend those precious minutes at daybreak or day's end."

VX-R models include 1.25-4x20mm, 2-7x33mm, 3-9x40mm, 3-9x50mm, 4-12x40mm and 4-12x50mm. Each is available with one or more of the FireDot reticle options: FireDot Duplex®, Ballistic FireDot, FireDot Circle or FireDot 4. In addition, the 3-9x40mm, 3-9x50mm and 4-12x40mm models are available with Leupold's Custom Dial System® (CDS®), which helps hunters and shooters get on target at any range, with any load, by matching their scopes to the ballistics of their ammunition and sight-in conditions.

Other key features of VX-R riflescopes:

• Leupold's Index Matched Lens System®, which maximizes light transmission to produce an extremely bright, sharp image across the visual field

• Blackened lens edges for enhanced light transmission, clarity and contrast

• DiamondCoat™, an ion-assisted lens coating for optimal light management and maximum abrasion resistance

• One-turn, non-locking eyepiece to provide smooth, fast and precise focus adjustment for users of different visual acuity, from nearsighted to farsighted

• Precision finger click adjustments for windage and elevation (1/4-MOA for all models except those with the FireDot 4 reticle, which has metric adjustments - one centimeter per click)

• Leupold's most durable twin bias spring erector system

• Second generation Argon/Krypton waterproofing

• CR-2032 coin cell battery, readily available around the country

VX-R riflescopes have a rugged 30mm matte black maintube and a sleek design that reduces bulk atop the rifle. Sporting Leupold's familiar Golden Ring, they are backed by the company's Full Lifetime Guarantee. For more information go to http://tinyurl.com/4fhnvlp.

In the electronic dog collar world there is Tri- Tronics and then there is everyone else!

2011-02-04T13:33:00.001-06:00

Since their start more than 40 years ago, Tri-Tronics has been committed to designing, manufacturing and selling only the highest quality, most durable and reliable, and easiest to use electronic dog training products in the world.
Take a look: http://tinyurl.com/6a2juw5

Finally something new from Maglite!

2011-01-30T00:38:00.001-06:00

Introducing the New Maglite® XL 50™ LED Flashlight

Delivers user-friendly, performance oriented features in a sleek, tactical design and is driven by the next generation of MAG-LED® technology.

104 Lumens

Features:

1. Spot-to-Flood adjustable

2. LED beam

3. Anodized for corrosion resistance and durability

4. Rugged, machined aluminum case

5. Intelligent Energy Source Management - continuously

monitors the balance between high brightness and efficient

power usage allowing for prolonged battery live

6. Powered by three (3) AAA alkaline batteries (included)

7. Individually serial number

Take look at WCoyote Outdoors

New to the AR Platform? This will get you started on the right path.

2011-01-06T14:07:00.001-06:00

Thanks to the folks at the NATIONAL SHOOTING SPORTS FOUNDATION.

For AR optics check out WCoyote Outdoors.

Bushnell Free Fleece Pullover Promo

2010-11-18T23:15:00.003-06:00

Free Fleece Pullover

(A $129.99 Retail Value)

To Receive Your Free Fleece Pullover:

Purchase a Bushnell® Binocular, Riflescope, Spotting Scope or Laser Rangefinder with RainGuard® HD or RainGuard® before 12/30/10.

Complete coupon provided, original UPC bar code from package, a copy of your sale’s receipt and $15.00 (check or money order) for shipping and handling to address on coupon.

Offer good in USA only

To look over qualifying Bushnell products go to WCoyote Outdoors.

2010-11-18T22:49:00.001-06:00

Leupold Stevens is a 5th generation American icon . See the whole story by clicking http://tinyurl.com/WCoyote-Outdoors.

An American Outdoor Optics Icon

2010-11-18T22:25:00.001-06:00

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. is an American, family-owned, 5th generation company which has been designing, machining, and assembling precision optical instruments for a century. The organization was established in 1907 and has been built on their never ending commitment to their customers? absolute satisfaction, and their commitment to building the very best optics for the shooting sports, general and wildlife observation, and the military and law enforcement communities. In 1907 once the company came to be, a young European immigrant named Fred Leupold opened a one-man shop at 5th and Oak Streets in Portland, Oregon, repairing optics for surveying equipment. Leupold & Stevens remains a family owned company, though their focus has turned from surveying to helping people all throughout the world survey their environments with the innovative, high-performance sports optics and accessories.

Today, the Leupold optics are famous for unchallenged ruggedness, absolute waterproof integrity, and their unmatched superior optical quality. A century of observation and optical experience has gone into every binocular and scope produced, plus they consider the results are definitely worth the extra effort required to achieve this quality level that no other company can match. In the true American style, the foundation laid in their early years served as the template for the company as they have grown and changed over the years. Leupold rifle scopes are made to endure the worst the outdoors has to offer, and still make the shot of a lifetime. The rifle scopes are: bright, clear, rugged, waterproof, accurate, dependable and guaranteed for a lifetime. The RX digital laser rangefinder series introduced the whole world to TBR (True Ballistic Range), which takes the guesswork out of using a rangefinder on steep angles along with 13 different aiming point options, and other unique features. Another revolutionary product, the VX-L incorporates a unique profile so you're able to mount a big objective rifle scope significantly lower than a conventional scope, for a more natural, shooting position

A great deal have happened since Fred Leupold was joined by his brother-in-law, Adam Voelpel. A amazing and prolific inventor and consulting engineer named John Cyprian Stevens became an associate in the Leupold business. The small company survived the First World War as well as the Great Depression (1929-1933). But it was the Second World War which would affect the company for ever. Working with the U.S. Army on a rifle scope as well as Navy on optics for use aboard ships, the engineers at Leupold learned the strategies of waterproofing and durable construction that would completely change the world of sports optics.

To look over the entire lineup of Leupold Outdoor products visit

WCoyote Outdoors.

2010-10-21T23:58:00.008-05:00

Deer hunting is less than just around the corner. If you have been wanting a rifle scope for your deer gun but are confused by all the options, terms and decisions involved then our Rifle Scope Short Course is for you. It is the basic that will get you headed in the right direction in the selection process.

Riflescope Short Course

Riflescopes

A riflescope indicates a bullet’s point of impact and makes distant targets and surrounding objects appear closer. A riflescope is recommended for safer, more accurate shooting in the field and on the range.

Diagram of a riflescope

Coated Optics
Coatings on lens surfaces reduce light loss and glare due to reflection for a brighter, higher-contrast image with reduced eyestrain. More coatings lead to better light transmission.

Types of Coating
Coated – A single layer on at least one lens surface.
Fully Coated – A single layer on all air-to-glass surfaces.
Multi-Coated – Multiple layers on at least one lens surface.
Fully Multi-Coated – Multiple layers on all air-to-glass surfaces.

Exit Pupil
The size of the column of light that leaves the eyepiece of a scope. The larger the exit pupil, the brighter the image. To determine the size, divide the objective lens diameter by the power (a 4x32 model has an exit pupil of 8mm).

Eye Relief
The distance a scope can be held away from the eye and still present the full field-of-view.

Field-of-View (F.O.V.)
The side-to-side measurement of the circular viewing field or subject area. It is defined by the width in feet or meters of the area visible at 100 yards or meters. A wide field-of-view makes it easier to spot game and track moving targets. Generally, the higher the magnification, the narrower the field-of-view.

Magnification (Power)
Riflescopes are often referred to by two numbers separated by an "x". For example: 4x32. The first number is the power or magnification of the scope. With a "4x", the object being viewed appears to be four times closer than when seen with the unaided eye.

Objective Lens Size
The second number in the formula (4x32) is the diameter of the objective or front lens in millimeters. The larger the objective lens, the more light that enters the scope, and the brighter the image.

Ocular Lens
The lens closest to your eye.

Parallax
A condition that occurs when the image of the target is not focused precisely on the reticle plane. Parallax is visible as an apparent movement between the reticle and the target when the shooter moves their head or, in extreme cases, as an out-of-focus image.

Precision Adjustments
The windage and elevation adjustments affect accuracy. Windage is the horizontal (left-to-right) adjustment, usually the side turret of the scope. Elevation is the vertical (up-and-down) adjustment, usually the top turret of the scope.

Resolution
Resolution, or definition, is the ability of a scope to distinguish fine detail and retain clarity.

How to Choose
A quality riflescope is the key to a successful day at the range or in the field. Riflescopes bring distant targets and surrounding objects up close and personal allowing safer, more accurate shooting. They gather and utilize available light making it possible to shoot in lower light conditions and allowing the hunter to hunt from dawn to dusk.

Pairing just the right riflescope with your gun and ammunition will help you get the most out of each and every shot. Selecting the correct scope to fit your needs involves a number of considerations from mechanics and construction to image quality and magnification. Keep in mind when and where you shoot most often and choose a riflescope with features that best fit the requirements of your particular sport.

Mechanics
The inner workings of a scope have a direct effect on shooting accuracy. As adjustments are made during sight-in, the cam tube, which holds the reticle and lenses in place, moves inside the scope. To stay on target and produce a quality image, this tube must be strong enough to absorb the impact of heavy recoil during shooting and remain in place. When selecting your riflescope look for precision (positive) adjustments, point-of-impact consistency, reticle strength and waterproof, fogproof and shockproof durability. You'll also want to consider weight, bulk and ergonomics, which are especially important during long days in the field.

Image Quality
For optimum image quality, it is important that the optical system of a riflescope deliver as much light as possible to the eye of the shooter. The lighter or brighter the image, the sharper the resolution and the clearer the shot. The quality of the glass, lens design and optical coatings all contribute to a riflescope's ability to manage light effectively. When selecting your scope, consider magnification, objective lens size, exit pupil, resolution, field-of-view and eye relief.

Magnification
Choose a riflescope with the magnification or power that is appropriate for your particular application.

Low Power – (examples: 1.5–6x32, 2–7x32) These riflescopes are ideal at close range and for shooting moving targets. They provide the most effective light management and produce a brighter sight picture and wider field-of-view – even in low-light conditions and thick brush.

Medium Power – (examples: 3–9x40, 2.5–10x50) Select these riflescopes for hunting big game at medium range.

High Power – (example: 6–18x40, 6–24x40) These riflescopes are best for target shooting, when the target is motionless and for varmints and other small game.

Reticles
A reticle is the crosshair or pattern placed in the eyepiece of the scope which establishes the gun’s position on the target.

There you have it. We hope that you found the information useful and it helped you better understand the world of rifle scopes. If you are looking for a rifle scope, binoculars or rangefinder for your fall hunting please accept our invitation to take a look at a wide variety of quality products at WCoyote Outdoors. You will find excellent prices, product information and service.

2010-10-15T09:45:00.002-05:00

Nikon has a mount specifically for AR platform rifles.
They are very popular but not available everywhere but
you will find them at: http://ping.fm/gQCGy

So you like guns.

2010-10-14T11:49:00.018-05:00

So you like guns - then you will like this!

2010-10-10T18:32:00.003-05:00

Leupold Rangefinders

"Close enough" simply isn't good enough for Leupold, and most likely not for you, either. Leupold rangefinders, from the pocket sized RX-1000 to the powerful RXB-IV, provide features and performance unmatched in other optics. They're constructed to be rugged and waterproof, built by hunters and shooters that actually know the conditions you'll face in the field. Whether elk hunting in the Rockies, deer hunting in Iowa or moose hunting in Ontario Leupold has a rangefinder that's right for you.

Check out the selection of Leupold rangefinders at WCoyote Outdoors you will be glad you did.

Deer Activity and Weather Patterns

2009-12-01T10:05:00.006-06:00

Weather affects the behavior of all outdoor wildlife. Understanding how weather patterns affect the daily habits and movement of deer will give you advantages over other hunters.

Animals in the wild have senses that humans don't have. They are more in tune with nature and the environment. Animals are able to detect weather patterns and adjust their patterns of behavior accordingly. For example, the eating patterns of deer may be affected during harsh or stormy weather. Whitetail Deer eat twice daily and then find a spot to lie down like a cow, and chew their cud. Many hunters are not aware of this. Information is power - know the patterns of the animal you are hunting.

Deer will also react to other stimuli including their geographic location and the presence of hunters in their territory. Feeding habits can change according to weather patterns, a change in seasons, or other stimuli.

Pay attention to weather reports and use your own observations. When a big storm is coming, animals including deer will instinctively feed more than normal to increase their calorie intake before hiding out from the impending storm. Once the storm passes, animals will reappear looking for food. In winter, deer will feed during the warmest time of day in a patch of sunshine if they can find one.

Want to know more insider tips about deer hunting? Check out Deer Hunting Secrets Exposed - a comprehensive ebook offering numerous tips about successful deer hunting. Remember, deer hunting is all about knowing deer habits, where and how they spend their time and what they do under varying conditions. Knowledge is power - learn what other hunters don't know.

Barrow Pit

2009-02-06T14:54:00.006-06:00

Sometimes relief from the daily stresses of life can come from an unexpected place. Even from a place you would least expect. For quite a number of years I managed a company that distributed equipment over a two-state area. The company grew extremely quickly over the years, from a manageability standpoint, too quickly. Managing an entrepreneurial company of this type brings a host of ongoing pressing management activities and responsibilities that leads to a life of long work days and long work weeks. As is said, “It’s not for everyone.” It’s the kind of work life that makes one seek out, and deeply appreciate, small periods of relief or distractions from the daily grind. Time requirements and dedication make the opportunity for time away from the business even for short periods difficult to come by.

Two west facing windows of my second story office gave me a great view. A county road, state Highway and a city street west of the property met forming a perfect triangle of about five acres. Also within the boundaries was what at first glance could be considered an ugly little borrow pit. Some 30 years ago this pit had been excavated for material to build the new state highway. It had long since filled with water from the high water table levels in the area.

Initially, I paid little attention to the borrow pit area. I did notice that it showed its age by the number of trees small and fairly large as well as beautiful cattails around the entire outside of the water. The whole property had a fence around it and, in addition, on the land around the body of water was a great stand of tall grasses. One early summer day as I passed my office window I glanced out and was surprised to see a Canada goose and several goslings crossing the north highway. As all of the roadways are very heavily traveled, I was immediately very concerned about the welfare of the geese.

I rushed down and out of the building and through the front gate to literally herd the whole family back across the road. This was much to the displeasure of the mother goose and to the wonderment of the folks traveling on the highway. Once the mother goose had made her position clear and figured out that I was not going anywhere, she headed for a small hole in the fence. She quickly slid through the hole with the youngsters’ right behind her. I decided to find a piece of wire to fix the hole and at least slow down the next attack of goose wanderlust.

As I worked on the fence I wondered why I had not noticed the geese earlier. After all, I drove by the pit twice daily and looked out the office windows numerous times each day. Once finished I spent a few minutes looking around and spotted another family of geese. I heard a car door close and turned to see a Department of Natural Resources employee headed my way. We introduced ourselves, and I told him what I had been doing. We chatted about the pit for several minutes, and he told me that they had made some habitat changes around the pit. This was the first year that geese had nested here. The DNR Specialist also told me that the site had been chosen for the placement of a pair of trumpeter swans under a new program to try to reintroduce the birds to the State. In addition, two area conservation clubs were going to improve the habitat even more to try to attract waterfowl and other outdoor creatures. As an outdoors man, I found all of this very exciting, and it was the strong attachment to this little borrow pit stuck between three roadways with hundreds of vehicles passing by each day. Eventually, an aerator was installed for the swans (they stay year round), which our company happily donated the power to operate.

Over the years this little body of water turned into a haven for waterfowl, including the trumpeters which have produced a number of offspring that have seeded other bodies of water. Wood ducks, blue and green wing teal, mallards, geese and any number of song birds raise families there each year. I have seen as many as 57 goslings on the water at one time, a large number for such a small body of water. In addition, there are muskrat, mink and other mammals. Development has reached a level where it is not unusual to see classes of school children at the site. As for me, it was a gift. Anytime I needed a lift, something to get my mind off the many tasks at hand even for a minute, I could turn to the window and always—and I mean always—see wildlife in pursuit of happiness. The place became a stopover for thousands of migrating waterfowl each year and from this comes my favorite memory of this wonderful little refuge.

Many fall evenings I have anticipated sundown on a clear evening. As the sun was setting, the stop-over geese would start coming back from feeding—hundreds of them. They would come high and helicopter straight down to the water to rest for the night. The site of these great birds staging high above ground and waiting their turn to helicopter down to land, all against the beautiful colors of a setting sun, is a picture you can not buy at any price.

Yes, relief from the daily stresses of life comes from many places especially if you’re lucky and looking in the right place. For me, none has meant more than the ugly little borrow pit, which at first seemed a most unlikely spot.