With the approach of summer we are seeing larger numbers and varieties of birds, animals and insects, both out on the river and in the yard surrounding our house (and sometimes in the house). One of the most attractive and interesting birds, a woodland kingfisher, appeared in the last week in a backyard tree.

We have heard from several people that a large python lives somewhere in our yard. We haven't seen it, but we have seen a boomslang, a bright green, very fast, very poisonous snake common in southern Africa. It was traveling one morning across the path leading from our back yard to the front of the Tocadi complex. Boomslangs avoid contact with people; this one sped off to the backyard tree and climbed it in less than 30 seconds. In the photo it can be seen draped on a limb.

Hundreds of black millipedes pop out of the ground each time there is measurable rainfall, ranging in length and circumference from toothpick-size to bratwurst-size. They seem to be harmless, though walking on them is not pleasant. Two chameleons, one small and one fairly large, appear around the house from time to time. It is fascinating to watch them change color according to their surroundings.