The price we pay for country living

I read with interest a thread on the Macedon Ranges Community Facebook page; the discussion revolved around fruit trees and the mystery of disappearing fruit.

Cue Miss Marple…

Many local gardens seem to fall victim to unknown assailants, these late-night villains stripping fruit trees of their precious bounty all in one go.

From the online discussion, it is obviously a common problem. Some suggested a "two-legged" culprit, but this was ruled out by others whose gardens had had the same issue but were not accessible to passers-by.

Rosellas and the ever-destructive cockies received many nominations. Any day is a good day to blame a cockie for damage. I’ve also now learnt a

Macedon Musings

With Belinda Carlton-Doney

new name for cockatoos: sky bogans! Love it!

Foxes and hares had a finger pointed their way, possibly not at the same time due to conflict of interest.

Rats rated high on the list. There seem to be loads of these furry pests around lately. Apparently, they take fruit away to eat, hence no evidence left behind. Local friends and I often discuss rats and ways of “helping” them along to alternative pastures (not a conversation I have with my city sisters — they wouldn’t cope).

A few symptoms of heatstroke are an elevated body temperature (between 38 and 39 degrees Celsius is normal); excessive drooling/ panting; dehydration; rapid heart rate; reddened gums; urinating tiny amounts or not at all; muscle tremors/seizures/staggering; vomiting blood.

If you suspect serious dehydration or heatstroke, contact your vet.

For information about Macedon Ranges Obedience Club, visit www.macedonrangesdogclub.org.au, our Facebook page, or you can email info@ macedonrangesdogclub.org.au.

Carol , Instructor/Treasurer MRODC

Some locals have seen fruit bats in the area. After reading that, I was convinced the next night I was witnessing a cloud of bats flying past. My husband assured me they were myna birds and to get my eyes checked.

Possums, lorikeets and crows all rated a mention. All have different ways of dealing with the fruit and leftover stones. I did not know birds were so creative in criminal escapades.

Finally, a shout out to deer. I had no ‘I deer’ they were this close to town.

Quite an impressive list of suspects. How lucky they all are that we take the time to nurture and grow fruit, just for them. Wildlife living the dream in the Ranges.