I'm very confident that our observed BF family is relatively aware of our intentions, and has not exhibited any obviously aggressive behaviors that would suggest objection to our periodic presence on a weekly basis. I think that we've been pretty diligent not to associate our excursions with a "free meal" so to speak, but we do occasionally leave special treats from time to time. Apples appear to have the best response and interest, the BF seem to prefer that you place an individual apple up into a tree. Generally placing an apple up on a branch against the trunk about 6ft up, spacing the placement randomly amongst a thicket of trees. Bags of apples tied to and/or hanging from a tree or stump get little or no response at all over time. Melons tend to work well also, but totally intact, any slicing or dicing shows alteration and my raise immediate suspicions. Although there are other animals in the area that could access the fruit, the BF occasionally leave a "calling card" at the placement site, such as a broken branch from a deciduous tree placed and wedged diagonally into the coniferous tree's branches. Most vegetables and tarty citrus like fruit (including strawberries) eventually become orphaned produce and end up as compost on the forest floor. When the various natural berries are out and abundant, no need to bother wasting your time and energy. Grilling fish out in the woods on the other hand, tends to get all of the "interested partie's" attention and then some!... But that's another story down the road for the eventual notes, and this of course is just what we've found to be the particular tastes to be preferred in our area. Hope this helps a little bit in regards to sharing some of one's resources with another whom occasionally accepts. Take care and good luck!
Adrian
Posted on Jan 15, 2002, 9:49 PM from IP address 12.229.153.33