Ain't Misbehavin'

Day by day, I am finding myself at greater peace with squirrels. As I reported in late August I have arrived at a deal with the animals that has held up for nearly two months. And to my amazement, two squirrels are holding up their end of the deal. It's simple: I keep a platform feeder stocked with sunflower seed, and they stay off the other feeders. The squirrels sensibly recognize that this is an easy feeder--no climbing, jumping, or gymnastics are needed. Perhaps they even understand that this is "theirs." In my own Pavlovian exercise, I have endeavoured to make them aware of me when they are present to signal that "yes, that feeder is acceptable for you and I won't chase you off of it." And I make threatening gestures whenever they seem to get near the tubes. I don't know how long this state of affairs can continue. Will other squirrels show up who don't get the deal? Will these animals start getting greedier? What happens when winter hits? I shall continue to honor the deal and see what happens. Maybe I'll even start to like the little rats!