Busy Cat Days

Ever visit a cat? This one is quite friendly and loves to be near people. She has the run of the ranch and is both an indoor and outdoor resident of the house. In mid-October, "Kitty" yes that's her name, liked to stretch on the deck in the afternoon sun.

 

Playing around with low sun angles, shadows and textures is what this photo is all about.

 

 

On my last day of visiting, Kitty showed me what serves as back scratchers when humans are not around to do the job.

Cat on a Cool Limestone Rock

The Niabi Zoo in Coal Valley, Illinois (near the Quad Cities) is home to many animals large and small. On the large side is this leopard who was cooling off on a huge rock in the midday sun when I came around. Zoo keepers made sure the animals get lots of water and shade from this oppressive summer heat. In the case of the leopard he was content by letting his body heat be absorbed by the limestone slab while checking for intruders as a potential quick snack.

Cold Stare from Green Eyes

Occassionally several elements of photo composition, lighting and cooperation from the model come together. This was the case while in Amana, Iowa to photograph Maifest this past weekend. A bit removed from legions of visitors who absorbed the German heritage Spring celebration, this cat relaxed on a home's front yard. Situated between dandelions, creeping charlie and a few blades of grass, the feral-looking cat's intense green eyes complimented its surroundings with a message of "I'm tracking you." Apparently even the lure of brats, music and beer just blocks away was not enough to deter green-eyes from watching a strange passersby. Know that.