Pictured Exactly As Found

These cast off remains of a likely coyote kill were in the path I use to get to the gravel bank.  The stomach and intestines hold no interest for the predators.  Size suggests that the victim might have been a deer.  Investigation in the brush filled area near the entrails might have revealed bones or hair where the pack tore their victim apart.  Good common sense dictates no exploration of the area near a fresh kill.

In the past a snake appearing creature was found in the grass.  It was a dead snake covered with carrion beetles.  These dead parts were left where they were to see just what animals will feed here after the pieces lie in the sun for a day or two.  If we get another opportunity to see carrion beetles, pictures will follow.  If nothing shows any interest in these pieces they will be buried.

When we were younger and somewhat more foolish, outside after dark was a common occurrence for us.  Seeing coyotes altogether too close and chance encounters with surprised skunks have led us to surrender the night to the animals.  We will venture out if necessary but essentially remain indoors after dark   Night trips outside usually feature us talking rather loudly to ourselves not because we are losing it but because we do not want to surprise any creatures of the night.  If they hear us coming, we are usually given a free pass.

Two days after these pictures were taken all of the pieces remained in the path untouched and unmoved.  Four days after these pictures were taken no sign of these body parts remained.  Even small pieces of the broken intestine were gone.  We missed the cleanup crew but suspect that either crows or vultures were responsible.