Return of the Soft Hackles ( not FF )

Up until a few years ago, we had a delightful rural setting here in Rigby. Like so many other places, residential growth has turned our country setting into a suburban area, or close to it and closer all the time.

Not unexpectedly, the large number of hungarian partridges we became accustomed to seeing in and around our yard ( two plus acres plus lots of open acreage in the adjoining three parcels ) dwindled, but up until a few months ago at least a dozen, and often more, made regular appearances.

Then, no more partridges. While we enjoy bunches of birds of many species in our back yard daily ( even when the neighbor's cat is on the prowl or a merlin or kestrel perches on the fence in anticipation of an easy meal ), we really enjoyed the partridges and have much missed them.

This evening, just after dinner, we were visited by a family of twelve huns. THE RETURN OF THE SOFT HACKLES !!! The young of this year are about half grown. All of them appeared quite healthy and active. No, I won't go pluck one for fly tying. But can't help but think about it every time I see them.

That's cool John. We have California Valley Quail and Mourning Doves in our yard daily. Fewer however, since the 1st of the month. (Dove season opener) I also fear we will see less and less due to development.

I used to have Quail in the back yard until neighbors brought cats in. The pellet gun works fine on cats.