It Be November. 11-1 and 1-4, 2026

We're at the point in the year where we say, "well, I guess we'll see things again in FIVE MONTHS!" I hate living where I do because of this. You only get half a year. Anyway, we gave it a shot on Sunday November 1st for shits and giggles and hit the local dens to see if anyone was basking at all. The problem is, with the time change, we got there a bit later than we wanted to and the sun had passed by the best spots. We still managed a few Redbacks. That second picture that you'll be scanning past because it's just Redbacks has two Leads and two Reds. Cool for me.

The only other thing of note was a branch that reached up and tripped Andrea as she went under a tree that had fallen across the path.

The weather had been warming during the early days during the week so by Wednesday, when it was supposed to be in the mid-70s, I decided to take a solo hike to the same place to see if anyone was up. I felt bad going without Andrea but she seems to be less passionate about it these days so I feel less bad doing it alone than I used to. I need it. I would not care to carry on without nature. (She is more likely sick of ME. I know I am sick of me.)

Anyhoo, I tried to time it better and got there at roughly 11:30 AM and the sun was hitting Robles' den perfectly. But nobody was up. Luckily, reliable and beautiful Redbacks were once again plentiful.

Into the Valley and lo and behold, a Nerodia noggin was peeking out of the tree-root-hole.

I hit all of the other densites and went up to the adjoining park for a bit and built up a nice sweat. But I saw no more critters. Heading back to the car, I peeked into the Valley again. The noggin was gone but there was a tail disappearing under the leaves in front of the hole... maybe that was the same guy.

But across the gully from the tree at a spot that used to be a Garter den opening, there was a large female Water Snake half buried in the leaves grabbing some sunny warmth.

So, two Water Snakes isn't so bad when you consider it's fucking November. I hope for that kind of luck next month but I doubt I'll get it.