Rocks: Robbing Peter to Pay Paul

Over the past few weeks, I have been moving rocks from various spots on our property to use for my pond/stream/waterfall project.  In some cases, I am hauling them from clear across the property to the water feature--approximately 300 ft. away.

I realize, there are times that the rocks I am moving are possibly providing shelter to some critters--if I see ants nesting under something, I have, on occasion, just left the rock in place; if it is one I feel I really need, I will put another, less (desirable looking) rock in its place.

Yesterday, I raised this goldmine on our property.  I suspect that previous owners dumped rocks on the slope while clearing the field.  I only wish I thought to take a BEFORE picture before tipping the top rock on its end:

As I have done for years, I will rework a structure that I feel may be used by chipmunks or other wildlife--making sure they have holes to get in and under rocks...or making sure I create an overhang where there was one before. (I have seen evidence of nut shells and such under some overhangs, and I picture the little guys staying out of the rain munching away.)

I hate to think that I am destroying habitat while trying to create more habitat on the property.   I like to think I have created a balance.

As I have done for years, I will rework a structure that I feel may be used by chipmunks or other wildlife--making sure they have holes to get in and under rocks...or making sure I create an overhang where there was one before. (I have seen evidence of nut shells and such under some overhangs, and I picture the little guys staying out of the rain munching away.)

I hate to think that I am destroying habitat while trying to create more habitat on the property.   I like to think I have created a balance.

Although, I would have loved to take the top rock as well for the stream, I left used it to cap the newly reshaped rock pile.  I hope it functions well for wildlife.   I know it now functions as a perfect place for me to sit when I need a rest or just want to enjoy being surrounded by nature!

Putting things back together:

As an added benefit, I found that the formation I created can be used as a model for a drop off in my (future) streambed and waterfall.

Robin

Although robins are quite common, and I rarely get too excited about them except maybe in the spring (although they are very welcome), over the years, I've noticed in a couple of photographs I've taken of them, that they can seem quite stately. 

They are a welcome sight after our long winter.  I am happy that they are comfortable around human habitation, and, although still a little wary, they often give me a chance to take some nice photos of them.